1996 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ80 LS Swap Triple Locked

Location: Fort Collins, colorado

Why It's Curated: This 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser is for sale in Fort Collins, Co. This FZJ80 represents a compelling fusion of legendary Toyota reliability and modern American V8 power. The centerpiece is a professionally executed LS swap featuring a fully rebuilt L92 6.2L V8 from a 2007 Cadillac Escalade, producing an impressive 515 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque—nearly triple the output of the original 1FZ-FE engine. Completed in 2024 by MAS Performance Auto with dyno tuning, this powertrain transformation includes upgraded camshaft, Hooker exhaust manifolds, and a matching 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission. Beyond the drivetrain, this Land Cruiser maintains its legendary off-road capability with factory triple-locking differentials, while adding modern enhancements including OME 3-inch lift, ARB front bumper with winch, Slee rear bumper, and 35-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mud-terrains. The thoughtful execution preserves OEM functionality while delivering exceptional performance both on and off-road.

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Model History: The 1996 Toyota Land Cruiser FZJ80 represents the pinnacle of Toyota's legendary 80 Series, which ran from 1990 to 1997 and established the template for modern luxury SUVs. Developed as Toyota's flagship utility vehicle, the 80 Series introduced sophisticated features like independent front suspension, coil springs all around, and the revolutionary triple-locking differential system—innovations that set it apart from competitors like the Chevrolet Suburban and Ford Bronco. The FZJ80 variant, powered by the robust 1FZ-FE inline-six, was engineered for global markets with uncompromising build quality and legendary reliability that would define Toyota's reputation for decades. What makes the 80 Series particularly significant is its role as the last truly utilitarian Land Cruiser before the model evolved toward luxury. The triple-locking differential system—front, center, and rear—provided unmatched traction control that even modern electronic systems struggle to replicate. Production numbers were relatively modest for the U.S. market, making clean examples increasingly sought after by collectors who recognize the 80 Series as the sweet spot between the spartan 60 Series and the more refined 100 Series that followed. Today, the FZJ80 commands premium prices among enthusiasts who value its combination of Toyota's bulletproof engineering, genuine off-road capability, and the distinctive character that disappeared as the Land Cruiser evolved into a luxury vehicle.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1996
Make: Toyota
Model: Land Cruiser
Trim: FZJ80
Drive: All Wheel Drive
Miles: 243,000
Mileage Verification: Actual Miles
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Automatic
Number of Forward Gears: 6
Engine: L92 6.2L V8
Exterior Color: White
Interior Color: Tan
State of Registration: Colorado
Vehicle Location: Fort Collins
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Engine & Transmission:
LS Engine swap from 2007 Cadillac Escalade, fully rebuilt with upgraded camshaft, Hooker exhaust manifolds, and custom single exhaust system *will NOT pass emissions testing in counties with requirements* Engine swap, dyno (515hp, 512-torque), and tune completed 2024 by MAS Performance Auto (Bay City, WI) @ ~238,000mi on Land Cruiser body
6L80E transmission installed with engine swap

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes:

Locking Differentials: Front Locking Differential, Center Locking Differential, Rear Locking Differential
Wheel Size and Offset: 16"
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: BF Goodrich KM3 LT315 75r16 35" Mud-Terrain T/A tires
Type of Brakes: Stock brake calipers, rotors, and rear brake pads Front brake pads upgrade to 100-series pads (~24% bigger) Electric vacuum pump supplying vacuum to brake booster independent of the engine

Exterior & Interior:  

Leather interior
Reupholstered front seats LED lights;
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: Yes

Other Notable Features or Functions:
OME 3" lift ARB front bumper with standard cable winch Slee rear bumper with spare tire swing out carrier Rock sliders Snorkel Factory gauges and dashboard controls operational (OEM CEL removed during swap; alternate CEL installed below ignition responding to GM computer) 3rd row seats Windows and sunroof fully operational (a bit slow)

Recent Maintenance:
Oil change @ 241,500mi Transfer case and front differential fluid change A/C charge and PCM recalibration

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
OME springs rusted. Recommend tune if staying at high altitude -- aggressive cam infrequently causes low rpm stall (lack of oxygen) when shifting out of park