Roading Mugs
Description: The 720 pickup was Datsun’s first foray into the 4-wheel drive mini-truck market in both long bed and extra-cab variants. It was introduced as a 1980 model and continued until 1986 when the Hardbody style (model D-21) was introduced as a 1986.5 model. Prior models of Datsun mini-trucks were the 521 and 620 which did not offer a 4-wheel drive option. The 720 featured an independent front suspension with torsion bar springs, a leaf spring live axle rear suspension, and a 4 cylinder engine displacing 2.0 liters at introduction, later enlarged to 2.4 liters. The manual transmission on the 720 drove a divorced transfer case that required extra clearance over a married setup, resulting in the 720 4×4 models having a lifted look and riding higher.
Description: The Monteverdi Safari was a luxurious Swiss-built 4x4 introduced by Peter Monteverdi in 1976, combining serious off-road hardware with the comfort and exclusivity of a high-end European automobile. Based on the rugged International Harvester Scout II platform, the Safari received an Italian-made coachbuilt body and was offered with the Scout's range of powerful American V8 engines. With its upright, purposeful styling, luxurious interior, capable four-wheel drive, and considerable price tag, the Safari anticipated the modern luxury SUV decades before the category became common. Produced in relatively small numbers until the early 1980s, it remains one of Monteverdi’s most unusual creations — a blend of Swiss, Italian, and American input.
Description: Founded in 1926 in Pfäffingen, Germany, Maico began as a manufacturer of small two-stroke engines before expanding into motorcycles that would become legendary in the world of motocross and off-road racing. Short for Maisch & Co., the company earned a reputation during the 1960s and ’70s for building brutally powerful, lightweight dirt bikes with exceptional suspension and handling. Maico motocross machines, especially the fire-breathing 400cc and 490cc models, developed a cult following among racers and desert riders who appreciated their raw performance and aggressive power delivery. Despite frequent financial struggles and ownership changes, Maico’s influence on motocross culture remains enormous.
Description: The Glamis Sand Dunes, located in southeastern California near the Arizona border, form one of the largest dune fields in North America and are a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts. Part of the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, Glamis stretches for over 40 miles, with massive, ever-shifting dunes that can rise more than 300 feet high. The area draws riders from across the country who come to drive ATVs, dirt bikes, 4x4s, and dune buggies across its open terrain. Beyond recreation, the dunes also have a unique ecological and cinematic significance, having served as a filming location several movies over the years. Despite the harsh environment, specialized plants and wildlife have adapted to survive in this striking landscape.
Description: 4x4 Offroad Legends series: Toyota 4Runner N180. The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Toyota. It is designed for off-road driving and has a sturdy body-on-frame construction. The 4Runner has been in production since 1984 and is currently in its fifth generation. It is known for its reliability and versatility, and is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. The 4Runner is available in several trim levels and can be equipped with features such as a third row of seating, a sliding rear cargo deck, and a variety of off-road technologies. It is powered by a choice of V6 or V8 engines, and is available with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
