The 1972 Toyota Hilux Pickup, refurbished in its original red and preserved with care, has joined the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum. This second-generation Hilux, originally ordered in factory Red (316) and later restored during its time in Canada, has been re-imported to the U.S. and now stands as a tribute to Toyota's early success in the American market.
Powered by a 2.0-liter 18R-C inline-four engine mated to a four-speed manual transmission, the Hilux delivers a pure, analog driving experience true to its era. Power-assisted drum brakes at all four corners handle stopping, while silver 14-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires complete the period-correct look. Inside, the reupholstered gray cloth bench seat, black dash, 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.
"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."
Compact yet capable, the 1972 Hilux helped lay the foundation for Toyota's truck dominance, and this example reminds us why—simple design, reliable engineering, and timeless appeal. Now on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum alongside over 200 vintage vehicles and 3,000 collectibles, the 1972 Hilux continues the museum's tradition of spotlighting rare and meaningful machines. New vehicles are added throughout the year, ensuring each visit brings something new to discover.
The DFW Car & Toy Museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s. The museum is now located at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137, offering free parking and admission. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
