After Toyota engineered its Celsior (Lexus LS400) for the 1990 model year, it was aimed squarely at European competition. The overall execution exceeded Toyota's expectation and a new benchmark was reached. After years of pursuit, the Japanese could finally make the argument that they had produced a finer luxury sedan than BMW and Mercedes. The Toyota Celsior embodied luxury and durability, and for that reason, has stood the test of time. This particular example, a 1994 Type C is finished in Toyota's Black Jade Pearl (6K4) two tone over cream beige leather. With only 47K verified miles, this substantial sedan is one of the lowest mileage examples we have imported. Aesthetically, the vehicle has an understated yet classy appeal. The exterior is in exceptional condition, and the paint is beautiful and has been well maintained over the years. There are some routine blemishes that were hit with touch up paint at some point, but nothing particularly concerning. The body is extremely straight with no major dings, dents, or scratches, sans some light scuffs on the rear apron.

The interior has been kept in just as great of shape, if not better, than the exterior has. The rare leather seats are exceptionally plush with very minimal signs of use. The bolstering is supportive and the leather is supple. The leather-work has light, traditional wear from getting in and out, but is free of any rips or tears. The passenger and rear seats appear to have hardly ever been used. The interior design was as feature packed as anything on the market. Of note, the ' executive suite ' located behind the passenger seat is sumptuous. Believe it or not, whilst being chauffeured, the rear passengers can control much of the vehicles infotainment and climate control. The optional F package gave massaging rear seats, heated seats, and even a tape deck and aux input. Best of all, the passenger front seat can fold into the dash to provide a space large enough for one to fully extend their legs. Being a proper 90's luxury sedan all of the accessories are powered. Memory seats, cruise control, automatic climate control, power folding mirrors, even the seat belt height adjustment. The full climate control works great and has ice cold A/C. The gauges function well, with fantastic back lighting and interior illumination is nice for nighttime cruises.

Mechanically this Celsior is just as clean as the rest of the car. Complete with a fresh service including some new plugs, the 1UZ-FE fires right up and purrs beautifully. The 4.0L gasoline mill is nearly vibration free, and incredible smooth while accelerating through the RPM band. The automatic transmission is equally quiet; shifting in and out of gear without any hesitation or grinding. The large cruiser can easily accelerates to speeds that will welcome a reckless driving ticket. When wishing to keep the car a bit more responsive, there is a selection button for an early sport transmission setting. The V8 is also a wise choice when considering ownership costs; the UCF vehicles are loved for low on maintenance costs, as it model was sold here in the US as a Lexus,and parts a readily available. The long wheel base, coupled with the adjustable air suspension, make the best out of any poorly maintained state road that you'll come across and the chassis can take a speed bump without batting an eye. The power steering is light and the large sedan has a decently small turning radius for its size. The aftermarket for the Celsior or Lexus LS is massive, which makes the Celsior a fantastic VIP chassis. Then again for those not looking to be part of the scene, these are undoubtedly a daily driver that you won't come across in the grocery store parking lot and can arguably last a lifetime. This turn-key Japanese Classic is fully maintained and ready to cruise.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.