This is a very long story, but I do genuinely want that. That's not to say that there aren't any modern improvements I wouldn't want to carry forward (coil-sprung solid axles are better, good AC is a must have, leather interiors are great)
What I'd like from the 40-series:
- A no-nonsense materials and rawer, more authetntic appearance.
- Less injection molding, obvious ways to remove major panels
- An upright sitting position with small pillars and great visibility
- Authentic small details, like kick-vents, metal bumpers, metal handles
- AK47-like reliability
The old pull knobs were great for tactile feedback when selecting various options and looked fantastic. I can imagine a modern take on that that incorporates the old, tactile UX with a USB-port/Phone app combination that gives you more information and control, allows you to play music (why have a stereo?) utilize a HUD for maps, etc. The phone would provide the additional brains and the vehicle would function fine without it.
There are additional details to get right, such as allowing natural materials to transition between one another (glass, rubber, metal) rather than having class slam into injection-molded plastic in a hidden, impossible to get to fold, and so on.
Ok fascinating. If you like the design aesthetics I fear you won't be satisfied unless you build one yourself...
I'm more concerned about entry angles, water crossing depth etc (it rains a lot on bad roads where I live). Also safety, old cars just can't compete traction control and 7 airbags.
Re reliability: is an FJ really more reliable than a modern equivalent car? And for me, I'm not repairing my own AK47 so it's more about cost of parts and availability of expertise, a modern Toyota makes a lot more sense...
If you like the design aesthetics I fear you won't be satisfied unless you build one yourself...
I've resigned myself to that, which is why I own a 60-series, which is the closest thing to a modernized 40-series for less than 80k available.
I'm more concerned about entry angles, water crossing depth etc (it rains a lot on bad roads where I live). Also safety, old cars just can't compete traction control and 7 airbags.
The 40 had great entry and departure angles (My 60 has bad departure angles). Most modern SUVs are horrific, really just slightly raised minivans, with all sorts of junk hanging off the bottom to get torn off. I have no beef with traction control, I'd just like a pull knob to engage it.
Reliability
The 40 series was very reliable, and easy to work on by anyone. There have been improvements in machining, seals, etc. and I'd like a modernized, inline 6 turbo-diesel. Since none of this happening any time soon, especially in the states, I had this put in my 60:
Is it just nostalgia? Or do you genuinely want a car that has readily removable doors and windscreen?