A piece of automotive history has found a new home: a 1972 Toyota Hilux pickup, fully restored to its original red glory, is now part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum. The truck, which played a key role in Toyota’s early success in the U.S. market, serves as a testament to the brand’s legacy of dependability and practicality.
The second-generation Hilux, originally ordered in factory Red (316), was restored during its time in Canada and has now been re-imported to the United States. Under the hood, it features a 2.0-liter 18R-C inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission, delivering an authentic analog driving experience. Stopping power comes from power-assisted drum brakes at all four corners, while silver 14-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and whitewall tires complete its 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 1972 Hilux helped lay the foundation for Toyota’s truck dominance, and this example reminds enthusiasts why: simple design, reliable engineering, and timeless appeal. The compact yet capable pickup is now on display alongside over 200 vintage vehicles and 3,000 collectibles at the museum, which continues its tradition of spotlighting rare and meaningful machines.
The DFW Car & Toy Museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, offers free parking and admission. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the museum’s website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. New vehicles are added throughout the year, ensuring each visit brings something new to discover.
