Stock #6378
Exterior Overview
This 1996 Toyota is a seriously cool JDM rig. Its manual, turbodiesel, features a 4×4 driveline, and looks incredible with its Dark Teal Green (751) over Pueblo Gold paint. Set off by color matched 16″ refinished OEM alloys, OEM rainguards, and some subtle privacy tint, this Surf is a certified stunner. Aside from a few light dings, scuffs, and scrapes the paint is in good shape and this truck is fresh off a recent service. Boasting a mere 152k verified and documented miles on the clock, this baby is barely broken in. Ideal for overlanding, kid hauling, and daily use, this reliable and capable Japanese Classic is spec’d just right ,and won’t last long!
Interior Overview
The cabin is in above-average shape and was cared for in a prior life. It’s all stock, and even the optional passenger-side trash receptacle is still on hand! The view of the road ahead is unencumbered, and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. Dual SRS front airbags are standard, as are ABS brakes, for those who may be safety conscious. The driver benefits from a tilt adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support to find the ideal driving position. Power windows, locks, and mirrors all work in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use more enjoyable. Even the rear window rolls down to provide better ventilation or extra room for some 2x4s. The rear bench tumbles forward to fold flat to accommodate larger cargo, and can 4-way recline to provide more comfort for those riding in the rear. The center stack includes controls for the simple-to-use OEM audio and automatic climate system. Both work properly making this an ideal year-round commuter. The Moon Mist cloth seats are in above-average shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The same can be said for the door cards which are done in a matching material. The carpets and headliner look decent, and overall, this is one of the nicest Surf cockpits we have seen in recent memory.
Mechanical Overview
The powertrain this Surf was spec’d with is a highly desirable combination. The 1KZ-TE under the hood is a nearly bulletproof mill, and this one is fresh off a recent oil and filter service. Like all of our diesels, we have chucked in a new fuel filter, and the 3.0L chugs to life with the twist of a key thanks to a new 12v battery. To keep all the electronics properly powered, and under bonnet squeaks to a minimum, one of our trained techs replaced the accessory belts with new ones. We also rehabbed the four-banger with a new valve cover gasket and half-moon seals, so that the oil level stays on full! The 1K operates seamlessly thanks to a professionally rebuilt ECU that includes a transferrable lifetime warranty on the repaired components. Linked to a manual gearbox, torque is funneled through a selective transfer case to the rear, or both, axles. The gearbox lacks any grinding or hitches and gives the pilot more control over the platform than the typical automatic slushbox. For trail trips or beach outings, a low range 4WD and center locker can be engaged, making this Hilux nearly unstoppable off the beaten path. It drives like a dream on tarmac, too, thanks to a fully refreshed suspension. New Bilstein dampers have been installed at each corner and we didn’t stop there. New front lower ball joints and front lower control arms were also replaced for state inspection. The inner and outer tie rods needed to be swapped out for new units, and new camber bolts were ideal for the fresh alignment we performed. The power steering is light and direct and the handling is improved with new front swaybar links. Grip comes from four brand new 31″ Falken tires. The brand-new all-terrains look mean, quell road noises, and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. On the freeway, this Surf feels stable and predictable and the standard ABS brakes feel confident reeling this big beast in from higher speeds. Stylish, inexpensive to own, and highly collectible this performance SUV is ready to go, and is a top enthusiast pick!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant 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.
