The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a 1972 Toyota Hilux pickup to its collection, highlighting the model that helped build Toyota's reputation for durability and practicality in the U.S. market. Originally ordered in factory red (316), this second-generation Hilux was restored in Canada and re-imported to the United States. It now stands as a restored example of a vehicle that laid the foundation for Toyota's truck dominance.
Under the hood, the 1972 Hilux features a 2.0-liter 18R-C inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission, providing an analog driving experience true to its era. Power-assisted drum brakes at all four corners handle stopping duties, while silver 14-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires complete the period-correct appearance. Inside, the reupholstered gray cloth bench seat, black dashboard, and matching door inserts maintain a clean, classic vibe. Amenities include lap belts, a Boman Astrosonix push-button radio, rubber floor liners, a carpeted dashboard cover, and a functional heater. The original two-spoke steering wheel frames a 100-mph speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights.
"This Hilux is more than just a classic Toyota—it's a time machine that takes you straight back to the '70s," said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "It's the kind of truck that worked hard during the week and cruised the backroads on the weekend. Seeing it restored and back on display is a real treat for fans of vintage Japanese pickups."
The museum, which houses over 200 vintage vehicles and 3,000 collectibles, is located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth. Admission and parking are free. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
