Stock #6801
Exterior Overview
Boxy, brash, and always cool, we have been in love with the 70 series since we started importing them over five years ago. These rigs are simple, sturdy, and easy to service. The Prado has a proven track record around the globe, and in fact, is actually still produced and sold by Toyota to this day. This 1996 Prado is a beauty, with its Red Mica over Flaxen (25Z) paint, bullet-hole wheels, and OEM rainguards. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the body is in good shape, and this seven-seater is fresh off a recent service. Offered with only 131k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this tough Toyota is turnkey and ready to roll. Ideal as a dedicated overlander, cool weekend cruiser, or year-round daily driver, this truck does it all. Style, capability, and reliability all in one practical package. What more could you want from your Japanese Classic?
Interior Overview
The cabin is simple, spacious, and in far above average shape compared to the average Prado we see. Let’s start with the dashboard, which is normally cracked due to sun exposure. This one, however, lacks any cracking, fading, or distortion. Power windows, door locks, and electric mirrors all function in typical Toyota fashion. The pilot even benefits from an electric lumbar support and a tilt-adjustable steering column to find the ideal seating position. The center stack is close by and within arms reach for the driver and passenger. The A/C and heat work like a charm, and the OEM audio above functions too, supplementing your road trip. The seats are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The middle row can slide and tumble forward to accommodate larger cargo and the rear two jump seats can be completely removed or stowed against the D-pillar. The door cards match the upholstery and have escaped major abuse over the years. The headliner is almost mint, and the carpets have resisted any major wear and tear over the past 25 years.
Mechanical Overview
While these are simple trucks, we really are impressed by how this example rides. With notably fewer squeaks and rattles than your average 70, the composed nature of this Prado is likely due to a Rancho shock upgrade that was installed in Japan. The engine is also a gem, the 1KZ-TE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 1K whirrs to life care of a new 12V battery and runs quietly thanks to newly installed accessory belts. A new fuel filter keeps unwanted contaminants out of the engine, and a new air filter assists the four-banger in maximizing power. A new valve cover gasket and half moon seal ensure the oil level stays full and the 3.0L feels healthy as a horse. A coolant exchange was also performed, which shouldn’t have to be done for the next four years. The 1K is mated to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts just as it should. A selectable transfer case allows the pilot to drive in 2WD or 4WD, and a low range can be engaged when an off-road escapade is on the travel docket. It gets up to highway speeds with ease and slows down when required, thanks to new front brake pads and rotors. For the VA state safety inspection, we installed new trailing arm bushings and rear sway bar link bushings. The front axle seals were also changed out to keep your 4WD in good working order. The aggressive wheels are clad in beefy all-terrain rubber that matches the exterior aesthetic. A fresh alignment will prolong tire life, and this power-steering-equipped rig tracks straight as an arrow. turn key and ready to roll, this sweet SUV surely won’t be around here too long!
*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.
