What size engine is in the 1979 Toyota pickup?
The 1979 Toyota pickup generally used a 2.2-liter inline-four engine, with some export markets offering a smaller 2.0-liter option. This reflects Toyota’s practice of providing a common, durable powerplant for North American buyers while giving regional variants more choices.
Engine options by market
Markets and trim levels varied, so the exact displacement could differ depending on where the truck was sold. The following outlines the typical choices available for that model year:
- 2.2-liter inline-four (approximately 2,200 cc), commonly referred to by the engine code 20R. This was the standard and most widely used option in many regions for the 1979 pickup.
- 2.0-liter inline-four (approximately 2,000 cc) offered in certain export markets and base-trim configurations where a smaller displacement was preferred.
In practice, most 1979 pickups in the United States and many other markets used the 2.2-liter engine, with the 2.0-liter option appearing more intermittently and in select locales.
Historical context
The 1979 Toyota pickup belonged to the early first-generation Hilux/Pickup family, a period when Toyota emphasized reliability and simple, robust performance for light-duty work. The larger 2.2-liter option (20R) represented the more common power choice, while the smaller 2.0-liter variants provided flexibility for markets with different taxation or fuel-economy considerations. The 2.4-liter 22R would arrive in later years, expanding engine options for newer trucks.
Considerations for restorers and collectors
When restoring or verifying a 1979 pickup, confirm the engine code on the block and cross-check with the vehicle’s VIN and original build sheet to ensure you have the correct displacement for that specific market. Parts compatibility can vary by engine family, so accurate identification helps with sourcing carburetion, timing components, and gaskets.
Summary
For the 1979 Toyota pickup, the most common engine size was 2.2 liters (the 20R). A 2.0-liter option existed in some export markets and trim levels. Buyers should verify the specific engine code tied to their regional specifications to ensure accuracy for maintenance, parts, and restoration work.
