Toyota - Hilux (1979)

Toyota Hilux 1979 – a rugged icon of utilitarian design that has stood the test of time. Even as a used Toyota Hilux, its legendary durability keeps it desirable among off‑road enthusiasts and commercial operators alike. While the Toyota Hilux price can differ widely depending on mileage, trim level, and regional demand, the Toyota Hilux 1979 price historically reflects a vehicle that has long been a go‑to choice for work and adventure.

Below you will find a quick spec rundown that showcases what makes the 1979 Hilux still relevant in today’s market.

• Engine: 2.0‑liter six‑cylinders, 68 hp (in most markets), 132 lb‑ft torque
• Transmission: 4‑speed manual (typically the standard) or a 3‑speed automatic in some markets
• Fuel type: Regular gasoline (petrol) with a fuel economy rating of ~14 mpg (city) / 17 mpg (highway)
• Dimensions: Length: 4,000 mm | Width: 1,700 mm | Height: 1,800 mm | Wheel‑base: 2,530 mm
• Weight: Approx. 1,400 kg (dry weight) with standard loading capacity of 1,000 kg
• Drivetrain: Body‑on‑frame construction with a 4WD drivetrain that can evenly distribute torque between front and rear axles
• Braking: Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes on most early models, improved to front disc‑rear disc on some later special editions
• Cabin: Two‑seat front with a modest, functional interior – plain benches, simple instrumentation, and minimal ride‑comfort amenities
• Exterior: Re‑inforced steel frame, skid plates, and a robust dashboard signifying durability over style
• Optional features: Some models offered heavier duty suspension, longer wheel‑base, or an optional cab roof extension for additional storage

The Toyota Hilux depreciation decade after launch remains one of its defining characteristics. Because of its inherent resilience, the vehicle typically experiences a gradual value decline over time. For new Hilux buyers, the first year often sees a typical drop of 15‑20% of its value – more modest than most lighter, luxury pickups. After that stage, the depreciation curve flattens: this vehicle tends to retain about 25% of its original value at five years and around 15% at ten years. Consequently, many buyers find a used Hilux a worthwhile long‑term investment.

To illustrate how this compares to contemporary models, consider a recently upgraded 2022 Toyota Hilux. While it carries a higher sticker price and a more modern feature set, it also depreciates faster – it can lose 20–25% of its value in the first year. Over a five‑year span, the newer model generally sits at around 40% of its initial price, whereas a 1979 Hilux can still hold around 50% of its launch value under similar conditions. This difference underscores why the older Hilux preserves value so effectively.

When you ask what is a 1979 Toyota Hilux worth, you’ll find the answer depends heavily on multiple factors: mileage, service history, and mechanical condition. A pristine example with low mileage might fetch a 10‑15% higher premium than a heavily used one. However, regardless of its background, the used Toyota Hilux price