The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a legendary vehicle to its collection: the 1981 Toyota Pickup SR5 4x4. This truck, which helped establish Toyota's reputation for durability in the United States, is now on permanent display, offering visitors a chance to see a piece of automotive history up close.
Powered by the renowned 2.4-liter 22R inline-four engine, this SR5 is paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, providing true four-wheel-drive capability. The truck features Toyota's desirable Black Package, which includes 15-inch six-spoke steel wheels, manually locking front hubs, a sliding rear window, and power-assisted front disc brakes. These elements combine to deliver the go-anywhere performance that made the early Toyota pickups legendary.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the truck's significance. 'The early Toyota pickups earned a cult following for a reason—simple, tough, and unstoppable,' he said. 'This 1981 SR5 is the kind of truck people still dream about owning, and now fans can see it up close in all its restored glory.'
The interior remains authentically outfitted with an AM/FM radio, hand-crank windows, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, and a heater. The dash features an 85-mph speedometer, tachometer, and gauges for fuel and coolant temperature, while voltage and oil pressure readouts are mounted below. Thoughtful updates include a refinished frame, a new clutch slave cylinder, and an upgraded exhaust system, ensuring the truck's legendary longevity continues.
This 1981 SR5 is more than a vehicle; it represents an era of no-nonsense engineering and off-road capability. It joins over 200 rare vehicles and 3,000 toys and collectibles at the museum, which is part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, offers free admission and parking, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the addition of this Toyota pickup underscores the growing appreciation for classic trucks that defined an industry. The DFW Car & Toy Museum continues to expand its exhibits, with new additions introduced throughout the year. Visitors can explore the museum's collection and learn more by visiting its website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
