The 1989 Toyota Bandeirante: A Closer Look at a Low-Mileage Icon

Daily Car

16/02/2026

What is this vehicle and what makes it unique?

This is a 1989 Toyota Bandeirante, the Brazilian-built version of the iconic Land Cruiser FJ40. Its history is highly unusual. For nearly four decades, it served as a luggage tractor at the Rubem Berta International Airport in Uruguaiana, Brazil. Because it never left the airport grounds, its odometer shows only 21,117 miles (33,986 km). This is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age and type, which are typically driven hard in tough conditions.

What kind of engine does it have?

Unlike the global Land Cruiser FJ40, this Brazilian model features a different powertrain. Under the hood is a 4.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine sourced from Mercedes-Benz. It produces 89 horsepower and a substantial 195 lb-ft (265 Nm) of torque. This engine is built for pulling heavy loads, not for high speed. The high torque is what made it ideal for its job of towing luggage carts, and power is sent to all four wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox.

What is the overall condition of the vehicle?

The vehicle is in impressive condition for its age. The Mustard Yellow paint, body panels, and chassis are remarkably clean, a direct result of its limited and specific use on airport tarmac. The interior is largely original, with only minor wear visible on the steering wheel. The only significant evidence of its past life is a mounting hole in the roof where an airport siren was once fitted.

How does this compare to a typical Land Cruiser FJ40?

Most FJ40s are known for their off-road capability and are often heavily used in harsh environments. They are built with a "body-on-frame" design, where the vehicle's body is mounted on a separate, rigid steel frame. This makes them extremely tough and durable. This Bandeirante has that same rugged foundation but has lived a sheltered life. While its counterparts were navigating trails, this example spent its days on flat, smooth surfaces, preserving it in a near-original state.

What is its current market status?

This specific Toyota Bandeirante is currently for sale in Brazil with an asking price of €38,000, which is approximately $41,100. Its combination of extremely low mileage, unique history, and excellent preservation makes it a significant find for collectors. The seller has indicated a willingness to ship the vehicle to major ports in North America, Europe, Japan, or Oceania, offering a rare opportunity for an enthusiast to own a piece of automotive history.

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