Best Exhaust for Landcruiser 80 Series HZJ80, HDJ80 & FZJ80
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Why the 80 Series Still Deserves the Best
The Toyota Landcruiser 80 Series ran from 1990 to 1998 and it's still one of the most respected 4x4s ever built. Whether you're running a naturally aspirated 1HZ diesel, a factory turbocharged 1HD-T or the big 1FZ-FE petrol these wagons were engineered to last and with the right exhaust upgrade they'll perform better than the day they left the factory.
At Outback Exhausts, we've built exhaust systems specifically for each 80 Series variant. This guide walks you through what's available, what suits your engine and why the exhaust is one of the best bang for buck upgrades you can make on an 80.
Understanding the Three Main 80 Series Variants
Before you start shopping it's worth knowing exactly which engine you're working with because the right exhaust system differs significantly between them.
HZJ80 — 4.2L 1HZ Naturally Aspirated Diesel
The HZJ80 is the workhorse of the 80 Series family. The 1HZ is a naturally aspirated inline six diesel that's renowned for its reliability and longevity. It's not the most powerful engine out of the box but it responds well to exhaust improvements. Freeing up exhaust flow reduces back pressure which helps the engine breathe better, run cooler and pull more efficiently especially when towing or loaded up for a long trip.
HDJ80 — 4.2L 1HD-T Factory Turbo Diesel
The HDJ80 came with the 1HD-T turbocharged diesel a significant step up in performance over the HZJ80. With a turbo in the system exhaust upgrades become even more impactful. A proper turbo-back upgrade reduces turbo lag, improves spool and lets the engine make the most of its boost. If you're running a DTS turbo upgrade on an HZJ80, the same principles apply.
FZJ80 — 4.5L 1FZ-FE Petrol
The FZJ80 runs the 1FZ-FE inline six petrol engine smooth, torquey and popular with those who prefer petrol power for long distance touring. An exhaust upgrade on the FZJ80 delivers a noticeable improvement in throttle response and a deeper more authoritative exhaust note without going over the top.
Exhaust Systems We Make for the 80 Series
Outback Exhausts manufacture all of their 80 Series exhaust systems right here in Australia. Every system is built to ADR compliance standards and designed to bolt straight on without modification. Here's a breakdown of what we offer for each variant.
80 Series Exhaust Systems at a Glance
| Exhaust System | Engine Fit | Pipe Size | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extractor + Full Exhaust | 4.2L 1HZ N/A Diesel (HZJ80) | 2.5" | Complete system upgrade in one go | Maximum flow from headers to tailpipe on N/A diesel |
| Manifold Back | 4.2L 1HZ N/A Diesel (HZJ80) | 2.5" | Already have aftermarket extractors fitted | Improved flow from manifold flange to rear |
| Engine Pipe Back | 4.2L 1HZ N/A Diesel (HZJ80) | 2.5" | Front end already done, need the back half | Fresh muffler & pipework from engine pipe to tail |
| Extractor Only | 4.2L 1HZ N/A Diesel (HZJ80) | N/A | Existing exhaust is fine, factory headers are the restriction | Improved exhaust scavenging, better efficiency |
| Turbo Back — DTS Turbo | 4.2L 1HZ + DTS Turbo Conversion (HZJ80) | 3" | HZJ80 with a DTS turbo upgrade fitted | Handles increased exhaust volume from turbo conversion |
| Turbo Back | 4.2L 1HD-T Factory Turbo (HDJ80) | 3" | Factory turbo diesel, full system upgrade | Faster turbo spool, harder pull across the rev range |
| Exhaust with Extractor | 4.5L 1FZ-FE Petrol (FZJ80) | 2.5" | Complete petrol system upgrade | Better throttle response & cleaner exhaust note |
| Extractor Back | 4.5L 1FZ-FE Petrol (FZJ80) | 2.5" | Already have extractors, need the rest of the system | Improved flow & deeper exhaust note from extractors back |
HZJ80 — 1HZ Naturally Aspirated Diesel
Extractor + Full Exhaust System
Outback Exhausts' most popular setup for the HZJ80 is the complete Exhaust with Extractor for the Toyota Landcruiser 80 Series HZJ80 4.2L 1HZ. This is a full system extractor headers through to the rear designed to maximise flow on the naturally aspirated 1HZ. If you want the complete package in one go this is it.
Manifold Back
This option is for someone who already has aftermarket extractors fitted or happy enough with the factory manifold and just want better flow from that point back. Outback Exhausts' Manifold Back Exhaust for the HZJ80 1HZ is a full 2.5" system from the manifold flange all the way to the rear. It only includes components after the extractors. A lot of our customer go this route when they've already done the headers separately or picked up a set second hand.
Engine Pipe Back
This option is ideal for HZJ80 owners who already have aftermarket extractors and a front pipe fitted, and want to replace the remaining exhaust from the engine pipe back. This is where Outback Exhausts' Engine Pipe Back Exhaust for the HZJ80 1HZ comes in. It picks up from the engine pipe and runs right through to the tail new muffler, new pipe, done properly. It's a popular choice for blokes who've already tackled the front end and just need the back half freshened up with something that actually flows.
Extractor Only
If you already have a decent exhaust system and just want to address the restrictive factory extractors Outback Exhausts' Australian Made Extractor for the HZJ80 1HZ is the answer. Manufactured locally these headers are a direct bolt on upgrade that improves exhaust scavenging and helps the 1HZ run more efficiently.
Turbo Back — DTS Turbo Upgrade
If you have installed a DTS turbo on your HZJ80; Outback Exhausts' Turbo Back Exhaust for the 80 Series 1HZ DTS Turbo is built specifically for this setup. A 3" turbo-back system that flows freely and handles the increased exhaust volume a turbo conversion produces.
HDJ80 — 1HD-T Factory Turbo Diesel
Turbo Back Exhaust
For the factory turbo HDJ80, Outback Exhausts' 3" Turbo Back Exhaust for the HDJ80 1HD-T is the go-to upgrade. Running from the turbo outlet all the way to the rear, this system significantly reduces restriction and helps the 1HD-T spool faster and pull harder across the rev range.
FZJ80 — 1FZ-FE Petrol
Exhaust with Extractor
Outback Exhausts Exhaust with Extractor for the FZJ80 4.5L 1FZ-FE Petrol is a complete system built for the petrol 80 Series. Extractors improve exhaust scavenging on the 1FZ-FE and combined with a free flowing cat-back you'll notice better throttle response and a cleaner exhaust note.
Extractor Back Exhaust
In case your vehicle is already fitted with extractors this bolt on Extractor Back Exhaust for the FZJ80 1FZ-FE is the ideal upgrade. Featuring a complete 2.5" system from the extractors back it delivers improved exhaust flow, a deeper refined exhaust note and enhanced performance without the need to replace your existing headers.
What Size Exhaust Does an 80 Series Need?
This is one of the most common questions we get. Here's the short answer:
- Naturally aspirated 1HZ: 2.5" is the sweet spot. Going larger on an NA diesel can actually reduce exhaust velocity and hurt low-end torque.
- 1HD-T factory turbo: 3" turbo-back is ideal. The turbo produces significantly more exhaust volume and benefits from the larger diameter.
- 1FZ-FE petrol: 2.5" works well for most builds. It's a good balance of flow and velocity for the inline-six petrol.
Extractors vs. Cat-Back vs. Turbo-Back — What's the Difference?
If you're new to exhaust upgrades, the terminology can be confusing. Here's a plain-English breakdown:
- Extractors (headers): Replace the factory exhaust manifold. They use tuned-length pipes to improve exhaust scavenging — pulling spent gases out of the cylinders more efficiently. Big gains on naturally aspirated engines.
- Cat-back: Everything from the catalytic converter to the rear of the vehicle. Improves flow on the back half of the system.
- Extractor-back: From the extractors all the way to the rear. A complete system that addresses the whole exhaust path.
- Turbo-back: From the turbo outlet to the rear. On turbocharged engines, this is the equivalent of an extractor-back — it covers the entire post-turbo exhaust system.
- Dump pipe / downpipe: The section immediately after the turbo. Often the most restrictive factory component on a turbo diesel.
Will an Exhaust Upgrade Affect My ADR Compliance?
All Outback Exhausts systems are built to comply with Australian Design Rules (ADR). We manufacture to meet noise and emissions standards, so you can run our systems with confidence. That said, if you're running a modified engine or additional aftermarket components, it's always worth checking with your local transport authority for your specific state requirements.
How Much Power Will I Gain?
We'll be straight with you — an exhaust upgrade isn't going to turn your 80 Series into a sports car. But that's not the point. The real-world benefits you'll notice are:
- Better throttle response and improved driveability
- Reduced exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) — particularly important when towing or running a turbo
- Improved fuel efficiency in some driving conditions
- A deeper, more purposeful exhaust note
- Less strain on the engine over long distances
On turbocharged variants, the gains are more pronounced — especially when combined with a tune or other supporting mods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an exhaust upgrade void my warranty?
If your 80 Series is still under a dealer warranty (unlikely given the age of these vehicles), modifications can affect warranty coverage. For most 80 Series owners running older vehicles, this isn't a concern. Our systems are ADR compliant and designed as direct replacements.
Can I fit an Outback Exhausts system myself?
Our systems are designed as direct bolt-on replacements. If you're mechanically confident and have access to a hoist or jack stands, fitting is straightforward. That said, we always recommend having exhaust work done by a qualified mechanic to ensure correct fitment and to avoid exhaust leaks.
Do you make systems for the 80 Series with a DTS turbo conversion?
Yes Outback Exhausts' Turbo Back Exhaust for the 1HZ DTS Turbo is built specifically for this popular conversion.
What's the difference between the HZJ80 and HDJ80?
Both run a 4.2L inline-six diesel, but the HZJ80 uses the naturally aspirated 1HZ engine, while the HDJ80 came with the factory turbocharged 1HD-T. The HDJ80 is noticeably more powerful and responds even better to exhaust upgrades due to the turbo.
Is the FZJ80 worth upgrading?
Absolutely. The 1FZ-FE is a smooth, capable engine and an exhaust upgrade gives it a noticeably better throttle response and a more satisfying exhaust note. It's one of the more underrated 80 Series variants.
Are your exhausts made in Australia?
Yes. Outback Exhausts are proudly Australian-made. We manufacture our systems locally using premium materials and every system is built to suit Australian conditions. When you buy from us you're supporting local manufacturing.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes we ship to all states and territories. Most metro areas receive their order within 2–5 business days.
We also ship to international destinations. If you're ordering from overseas, please call or get in touch with us to confirm shipping options and freight costs.
Browse All 80 Series Exhaust Systems
Ready to find the right system for your 80 Series? Browse our full range of Toyota Landcruiser 80 Series Exhaust Systems all Australian made, all built to last.
Not sure which system suits your build? Get in touch with us directly and we'll point you in the right direction.
