Toyota Land Cruiser 100 and its American twin brother Lexus LX470 are hands down some of the world’s most capable off-road vehicles on the market of used cars. No matter if it’s a 15 or 25 years old vehicle, the prices on such vehicle in pristine conditions remain on a pretty high level thanks to the everlasting durability and unique combination of comfort and 4×4 capabilities of this model.
If Toyota is the number one brand in terms of reliability, then an LX470 was the quintessence of all the best things this company could offer to a client back in the day. Twenty years down the road, these trucks still have plenty of things to offer to modern-day offroaders providing the luxury level driving experience combined with Jeep-worthy 4×4 qualities.
Speaking of Jeep, by the way, being equipped with a 4.7L V8 and a spacious 5-7 seater interior, the Land Cruiser/LX470 gives you everything that a Wrangler owner can only dream about without sacrificing on lockers, ground clearance, and the ability to run 33″ with little to no mods. No wonder a 100 Series Land Cruiser became one of the most popular SUV platforms for overland expeditions globally.
If you want the best off-road capabilities, have the money, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty (even a Toyota/Lexus require regular maintenance or repairs with time), then snatching one of these would be your best bet. Taking into consideration the current pricing trend on LC80/LX450 models, a low mileage LX or a 100-Series Land cruiser can turn into a profitable investment over time.
Let’s pretend that you’ve nailed a great deal on your LX, and it’s currently sitting in the driveway, waiting for some 4×4 action, but what would be your next steps in preparing it for a ride on more technical trails? To find the answer to this question, we decided to talk with the owner of this super clean 1999 Lexus LX470 that you see in the pictures, Adrian from Los Angeles, CA, who was kind enough to share his experience and provide a detailed insight at the specs and mods that he picked for his truck.
How did you become interested in off-roading?
– I would say I became more interested in Overlanding, offroading/camping. This is because I can spend some more time with my family, explore more and connect with nature.
Why did you choose a Lexus LX470 for your project?
– Reliability, this thing is like a tank! I’ve been wanting to have a 100 series ever since I went into overlanding scene. This is not my first rig but that time when I decided to be in this game, I couldn’t find any decent 100 series within my price range. So I decided to get a Montero which I loved. But honestly, at the back of my mind, I still wanted to get 100 series. So the opportunity came and I grabbed it.
“Reliability, this thing is like a tank!”
What inspired you to choose this modification style?
– Family, I’m building this rig to be capable enough to take my family to places that we want to explore. Quality time with the family is priceless.
What challenges did you face while putting it together?
– Well I guess the big challenge is the expense! Let’s face it, building a reliable rig is not cheap. When you start your build, you have to have a blueprint of what you want to do with your rig. This way you will have a clear direction on what upgrades you need and financially plan for it. Of course, plans change but the important thing is you have a clear path to follow.
“When you start your build, you have to have a blueprint of what you want to do with your rig.”
What do you love about your LX?
– What I love most about my rig is the reliability and the peace of mind that I know it can take me anywhere. As long as you take care of it, you’re good!
Is it your daily or a weekend ride?
– Both.
Do you take it off-road? If so, where and how often?
– Yes, I do, I take it anywhere.
1999 Lexus LX470 Specs
Engine specs, modifications
- 2UJ-FE 4.7L V8
Lift height and suspension modifications
- OME 2.5″ Lift Kit with Heavy Duty springs
Wheel specs
- Wheels: KMC 542 Impact 16×8 0 offset
- Tires: Toyo Open Country Mud Terrain 315/75/16
Exterior mods
- White Knuckle sliders
- Baja Designs S2 sport driving combo chase lights
- Frontrunner roofrack
- OVS 270 awning
- OVS shower room
- AreaBfe rooftop tent
- Waterport
- Lasfit headlights
- Blacked out grill and emblems
Interior mods
- Scan gauge
- Ben 3d build Ipad mount
- Ram mounts
What are your future plans about this vehicle?
– To make it as reliable as I can so it can take me anywhere. I would love to drive it cross country if I have the time.
Anything else you would like to share about your vehicle or about the off-roading in general?
– Take good care of your rig and it will take care of you. Whenever you go overlanding/offroading always remember, pack in pack out! Leave it better than you found it.
“Whenever you go overlanding/offroading always remember, pack in pack out! Leave it better than you found it.”
Watch the progress and find out more about this Lexus LX470 overland adventure project by visiting the Instagram profile of the owner: @geared2xplore!
Related Parts & Mods
– Inspired by this Lexus LX470 build and looking to prepare your own SUV for off-road adventures? Some parts used in this build were sourced from custom shops or custom made, but our team has put together a list of similar products and accessories available online that may help you to achieve similar results:
Wheels
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Tire – 315/75R16 (2.5″ Lift Recommended)
Roof Rack
- Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rack Kit – Land Cruiser 100/Lexus LX470
Shower
- WaterPORT Weekender Portable Water Tank with Camping Shower – 8-Gallon
- OVS Nomadic Car Side Shower Room – Quick Deploy
Roof Top Tent
- Mamba 3 Clamshell Aluminum Roof Top Tent – Black Shell
Awning
- Nomadic OVS Awning 270 – Passenger Side
LED Lights
*Before ordering any part or accessory, it is recommended that you verify its fitment with a qualified professional and/or seller. We are not responsible for fitment or other issues that may arise from using the products featured on our website.
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Matt – Love the build. How’s the tire/wheel combo held up in terms of hitting the fender walls at full compression/tucking into the wheel wells? What about rubbing when making full lock turns at compression?
thanks for the feedback! According to the wheel-size comparison calculator, the overall diameter of these wheels is almost 3.25″ bigger compared to the stock 285/55R19 tires that came with this model, so I assume they may slightly rub on a full turn (but it depends on the rim width and offset). I don’t think tires hit the fender walls badly otherwise, we would see some signs of damage and rust. If you have Instagram, you can contact the owner there and ask all your questions about the tire fitment. His username is @geared2xplore