These Land Cruisers looks in a really good condition as compared to the 40 series ones which they have been auctioning earlier. In my personal opinion, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is looking forward to buy and restore 70 series LC. These Land Cruisers are much better vehicles then the Land Rovers which were inducted later on but are now discontinued.
70 series LC is an excellent vehicle. Has lots of potential for upgrades, all types of body and engine parts are easily available. And last but not least, this series is still under production.
Military vehicles are kept unlike civilian vehicles. They are much more regularly serviced and maintained as long as they are in use. They might not tune the engines to the best possible performance but all parts are changed on a standard time limit and replaced mostly by genuine parts. Vehicles are auctioned once they complete their serviceable life as per military standards e.g engine and other mechanical parts are overhauled/replaced at least three or four time and the vehicle reaches at a certain category. Rest assured, you will hardly find any rusty and tempered vehicle auctioned by army. One main problem with most of the auctioned vehicles is cannibalization of parts. While in the junk yards, some usable parts are removed and used for vehicles which are still in service.
Coming to the restoration topic, sky is the limit. But if it is done properly and with the mindset of keeping it for a long term use, these vehicles will never betray you. There are so many options for better engines, suspensions and interiors to upgrade these LCs. Choice is yours! The difficult part is finding the right person/mechanic to do the job. The person has to be a proven specialist for such work. I will always suggest to do the frame off restoration for such vehicles. It cost time and money, but then you will be done forever. Always restore in detail i.e. engine, differentials, suspension, hubs, brakes, transmissions and electrical. Repair or replace - it has to be done very well in a proper way by a specialist - not just by an average car mechanic. lastly, one must possess some knowledge of these vehicles as well in order to drive and maintain later on. One also learns a lot during this process.
Such 4x4s are not the kind of vehicles which you restore just to make good profits. You restore and own one to fulfil your dreams. After all this hardwork, when you will go off road and engage a 4x4 or when you will set to cruise in the 5th gear on a open highway, the Land Cruiser will show its true capabilities - you will simply love the experience.