Mecum values it at between $40,000 and $50,000.
The Toyota Pickup of the 1980s is a classic, renowned for its reliability and solid construction. This is due to the truck’s bare bones nature. However, not all trucks from that era were utilitarian workhorses. Some trucks were well-equipped, such as this 1981 Toyota DLX up for auction at Mecum. This model is an early 1980s model and has many creature comforts. The SR5 package is available, as well as a manual gearbox. These add a touch of desireability.
The truck was rebuilt in high-gloss black with correct silver-gray stripes. The truck’s strength was partly due to its engine, the highly-coveted 2.4-liter 22R 4-cylinder. The truck is more than just a powerful powertrain. The interior features include air conditioning, bucket seats and a center console. There is also a sliding rear view and the factory-correct Fujitsu Ten FM/Cassette stereo.
Rear tube bumpers, front bumper protectors and a custom-chrome bed-mounted rollbar with period-correct KC Day Lighters lights complete the off-road look. All four corners are covered in new 30×6-50R tires wrapped around polished aluminum wheels. Spray-in bedliners are another upgrade. The refurbishment of the interior restored the seats with Toyota’s signature DLX fabric and vinyl upholstery. The dash features wood appliques and padded vinyl.
It is easy to drive with power brakes and power steering. The four-wheel-drive system allows it to go wherever it wants. It is in excellent condition inside and out. Mecum has estimated the truck’s value at $40,000 to $50,000. This would buy you a brand new, feature-rich, full-size pickup truck today. But it won’t be as cool and stylish as this Toyota. The auction will run through May 24.