Decades of Duty: Land Cruiser FJ40's Unusually Sedate 37-Year Life

Daily Car

14/02/2026

A remarkable 1989 Toyota Bandeirante, a Brazilian variant of the iconic FJ40 Land Cruiser, has emerged with an astonishingly low mileage, having spent 37 years in a life of quiet service. Instead of conquering rugged terrains, this robust vehicle was dedicated to a repetitive, low-speed role at an airport, leading to its exceptionally preserved condition and minimal odometer reading.

Key Takeaways

A 1989 Toyota Bandeirante (FJ40) spent 37 years as a luggage tractor at an airport.
It accumulated only 21,117 miles (33,986 km) during its service.
The vehicle features a Mercedes-Benz diesel engine.
It is now for sale, offering a chance for a new life beyond the tarmac.

A Life Less Ordinary For An Off-Road Icon

While the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is renowned for its off-road prowess and adventurous spirit, this particular 1989 model, known as the Bandeirante in Brazil, experienced a vastly different existence. For nearly four decades, its world was confined to the smooth surfaces of Rubem Berta International Airport in Uruguaiana. Operated by the federal airport authority, Infraero, its sole purpose was to tow luggage carts between the terminal and aircraft.

This specialized, low-mileage duty meant the Bandeirante never ventured far from its operational base. Consequently, its odometer registered a mere 33,986 kilometers, translating to approximately 21,117 miles. This averages out to less than two miles of daily use over thirty years, a stark contrast to the demanding journeys its global counterparts typically undertake.

Under The Hood: A German Heart

Although visually similar to the global FJ40, the Brazilian Bandeirante hides a surprise beneath its hood. Instead of a Toyota engine, this particular model is powered by a 4.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine sourced from Mercedes-Benz. This powerplant produces 89 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed manual transmission.

The interior and exterior of the vehicle remain largely original, showcasing its professional past with minimal wear. The only notable modification is a mounting hole on the roof for an airport siren. Evidence of its dedicated service includes minor wear on the three-spoke steering wheel, but the dashboard and cabin are impressively intact.

A New Beginning Awaits

This unique, low-mileage Bandeirante is now available for purchase in Brazil with an asking price of €38,000 (approximately $41,100 USD). The seller is open to shipping the vehicle internationally, offering enthusiasts worldwide the opportunity to own a piece of Land Cruiser history that has lived an exceptionally quiet life. This presents a chance for the former airport workhorse to finally explore the open roads it was never meant to see.

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