
Hello and welcome to the sale of this super little Suzuki. , The LJ series (or Jimny in some markets) is the forerunner to the ultra successful SJ, which was once a common sight across the globe, yet even those are becoming increasingly desirable and very difficult to find in good condition not only in the UK, but globally. For the discerning Japanese /4WD/Retro car collector and enthusiast, The LJ steps it up a notch again with very few examples remaining anywhere, whilst still gaining an avid following and ownership community with various suppliers of reproduction parts and universally accepted and documented upgrades and repairs available to keep these historic vehicles on the road. It is thought there are only around 5 tin top LJs in the UK, and around 10-12 soft tops, making them a rare sight indeed. You can tell that even the very popular brand new Jimny takes a lot of styling tips from these original vehicles. , This car has been carefully refurbished and cared for over the last 13 years by its dedicated and talented former keeper, Mr Sell of Norfolk. Spending his time between his homes in both the UK and Cyprus, Mr Sell found this particular LJ80 on a farm in Cyprus, acquired the vehicle and set about a 6 year campaign to repair, renovate and improve it, resulting in a very charming and usable example whilst retaining an authentic look. The 38k miles on the clock is believed to have been genuine, but obviously impossible to prove. All the work was carried out in Cyprus, before shipping it home to the UK only a few years ago and fulfilling the required registration, duty and MOT requirements. , , Using a rotisserie, the shell was stripped bare and any corrosion removed, although thankfully this was not extensive, and it retains many original panels and pressings, including the rear arches and quarter panels which are very hard to replicate and often get swapped out for flat steel. Mr Sell also skilfully remanufactured some panels to original shape and specification, including the floor pans. Sure, with time now past there are a few little scabs, cracks and the odd blister in the paint, but nothing that amounts to any more than appropriate patina for the age and type of vehicle. It doesnt look like its just had a concourse restoration, but it looks just right. Mr Sell has provided a photographic account of the work along with various notes to document the work and to aid and assist future ownership. The refurbished 15 modular style steel wheels have good all terrain tyres, there is a set of period style pressed metal number plates, and all the glass and lights are in great condition. A neat non standard fog lamp in keeping with the stock tail lamps has been fitted to meet UK MOT requirements, and the headlamps upgraded to halogen from the usual sealed beams. All the door locks work, the windows wind down and the rear windows pop open to give an airy safari feel. , Inside, everything is nice and tidy, with nice original features still present like the radio, gear selectors and steering wheel, along with nice rubber mats that have been carefully shaped to fit, and both the rear bench seats and headlining freshly custom trimmed. The front seats are actually rear seats from a Pajero, as the originals are virtually unobtainable. These offer a decent level of adjustability, comfort and a good driving position even for a bigger driver, along with 3 point seatbelts. However, yet again it all looks just right and is testament to Mr Sells dedication to maintain an authentic look whilst not letting availability hinder progress. , , The sweet running 800cc engine is the original type, which is seldom seen now as many have been fitted with later SJ units. It starts and runs a treat with no smoke or dramas, having been rebuilt internally by Mr Sell, along with an uprated fuel system and electronic ignition upgrade. The gearbox was also rebuilt around this time. With around 45bhp when new, its no race car and tops out around 60mph in 4th gear, but its surprisingly quick off the mark and nippy around the lanes, with a pleasing rasp from the exhaust, its huge fun! The steering, brakes, clutch and gear change are all very light, it really isnt hard to drive. The suspension is as supple and compliant as it can be, with modified shocks and springs that sit at just the right height, its no Rolls Royce but doesnt shake your fillings out!, , It is of course tax and MOT exempt under the 40 year rule, and would certainly qualify for classic insurance, making it a simple and cost effective annual ownership commitment. , To sum up, this is a seriously cool retro Japanese 4WD, in great useable condition, its a treat to drive and be seen in, it gets so much positive attention and we are sure the new owner will be as pleased as we are with it!, , Part exchange considered and nationwide delivery available.
This 1980 Suzuki LJ 80 4WD Jimny Estate is currently available for £19,995 in Westbury Wiltshire with Petrol engine and Manual gearbox. For more information or to arrange a viewing, click here to send us an email using form below.
This 1980 Suzuki LJ 80 4WD Jimny Estate is currently available for £19,995 in Westbury Wiltshire with Petrol engine and Manual gearbox. For more information or to arrange a viewing, click here to send us an email using form below.