Matt Aylestock’s well equipped 1995 Toyota FJ80

In my humble opinion, the FJ80 straddles the fence between generations of Land Cruiser. While all models of the legendary Toyota are reliable and off-road ready. The 80 series seems to balance the ruggedness of the 60’s and other prior series, while still embodying a bit of the shift towards a luxury SUV found in the 100 series and moving forward. In short, the best of both worlds. Out of all of the FJ80’s I’ve gawked over, Matt Aylestock’s is at the top of the list. This truck is plenty capable but still sleek. We were happy to chat with Matt about his truck for the second installment of Reader’s Rigs. 

OX4: How did you end up with your 1995 Land Cruiser?

MA: Having grown up around the 80series, the vehicle choice was easy. I have always had a passion for Toyota Land Cruisers. They are reliable, capable rigs that always gets me home. Though the fuel economy is not quite up to par with more modern rigs, it meets or exceeds all my expectations in the other departments as an adventure machine.

OX4: Where did you go on your most memorable trip or trips?

MA: We have certainly been to a lot of incredible places with the cruiser. Cross country exploring and adventuring has been incredible. Most recently we spent a few weeks this past summer exploring Colorado and Wyoming. Between the Alpine Loops and high passes in Colorado and the Wind River Range of Wyoming, it was epic to say the least. That excursion produced some of the most memorable camping spots to date. We hope to be back out there again in 2021!

OX4: What are some of the most important and/or interesting modifications you’ve made to the vehicle?

MA: Building the cruiser didn’t happen overnight. A lot of time and energy was spent tailoring it to my needs and making it capable of long-distance travel. Between overhauling the engine and adding the supercharger, it has always put a smile on my face. Dobinson springs and King shocks allow a pleasurable riding experience on or off-road. It’s a worry free, ready to go, adventure mobile.

OX4: Are there any particular companies you’ve worked with on this build?

MA: Actually, all of the work on my cruiser has been done by myself and my brother Peter Aylestock, at our shop Aylestock Automotive in Northern Virginia. We are two adventure driven technicians that have followed this passion our entire lives. If you want to check out our shop go to www.AylestockAutomotive.com or Instagram at @AylestockAdventures

OX4: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us. We hope to see you on the trails!

OutdoorX4 Magazine – Promoting responsible vehicle-based adventure travel and outdoors adventure