The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a 1981 Toyota Pickup SR5 4x4 to its collection, showcasing a vehicle that helped cement Toyota's reputation for reliability in the United States. The truck, part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection, is now on public display alongside over 200 rare vehicles and 3,000 toys and collectibles.
Powered by the 2.4-liter 22R inline-four engine, known for its durability, the SR5 is paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, providing true four-wheel-drive capability. The truck features Toyota's Black Package, including 15-inch six-spoke steel wheels, manually locking front hubs, a sliding rear window, and power-assisted front disc brakes. These elements combine to deliver a classic 1980s aesthetic and functional off-road performance.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the significance of early Toyota pickups. 'The early Toyota pickups earned a cult following for a reason—simple, tough, and unstoppable,' he said. 'This 1981 SR5 is the kind of truck people still dream about owning, and now fans can see it up close in all its restored glory.'
The interior remains authentic, featuring an AM/FM radio, hand-crank windows, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, and a heater. The dashboard includes an 85-mph speedometer, tachometer, and gauges for fuel and coolant temperature, with voltage and oil pressure gauges mounted below. The truck has also received updates such as a refinished frame, a new clutch slave cylinder, and an upgraded exhaust system to ensure its longevity.
The 1981 Toyota SR5 4x4 is more than just a vehicle; it represents an era of no-nonsense engineering and go-anywhere performance. Its inclusion in the museum's collection allows visitors to appreciate a piece of automotive history that has appeared on trails, farms, and even the big screen. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, offers free admission and parking, and 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.
