The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a restored 1972 Toyota Hilux pickup to its collection, offering visitors a glimpse into the origins of a vehicle that would become synonymous with reliability. The second-generation Hilux, finished in its original red and refurbished in Canada before being re-imported to the U.S., represents a pivotal era for Toyota as it established a foothold in the American market.
Powered by a 2.0-liter 18R-C inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission, the truck provides an analog driving experience true to its era. Its period-correct features include power-assisted drum brakes, silver 14-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps, and whitewall tires. Inside, the reupholstered gray cloth bench seat, black dashboard, and original two-spoke steering wheel maintain a classic aesthetic, while amenities like a Boman Astrosonix push-button radio and a functional heater add to its authenticity.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the museum, described the Hilux as a time machine that captures the spirit of the 1970s. “It’s the kind of truck that worked hard during the week and cruised the backroads on the weekend,” he said. The museum, which houses over 200 vintage vehicles and 3,000 collectibles, continues to add new exhibits throughout the year.
The significance of this particular Hilux lies in its representation of Toyota’s early success in the U.S. market. Compact yet capable, the 1972 model helped lay the foundation for the brand’s dominance in the pickup segment, built on simple design, reliable engineering, and timeless appeal. For enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, the display offers a tangible connection to a vehicle that has become a global icon of indestructibility.
The DFW Car & Toy Museum, originally founded in the 1980s as the DFW Elite Toy Museum, relocated to its current 150,000-square-foot facility at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth. The museum offers free parking and admission, and it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. More information is available on the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
