Stock #6799
Exterior Overview
Toyota’s newest Land Cruiser offering is really cool. It’s also really expensive, and packed with an abundance of unnecessary power equipment, driver assists, and technological fluff. Consider this 1996 Prado the grandfather of modern mid-sized cruisers. It’s Toyota tough, handsome, and sized well for daily use. It’s also backed by the same indestructible 3.4l V6 that powers classic 4Runners. Our Japanese Classics reconditioning team has gone a step further, finishing this example in a custom Cacti Green (WA-125J) finish. Set off by an optional front brushguard, dual driving lamps, and factory rainguards, the cosmetics knock it out of the park, and the 66k verified and documented miles on the clock really make this Cruiser a hot prospect in the market. Save for a few dings and paint imperfections, this is still a stylish rig, sure to turn heads at the campground. A timeless chassis with rock-solid DNA, it’s no wonder we call the Prado a certified Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The interior is exceptional for a vehicle of this vintage. The 3rd row seating is appealing to all, but the increased head and legroom are worth their weight in gold as well. It’s also packed with power amenities, useful and reliable equipment, and the grey cloth upholstery shows nary a stain or tear, a clear indicator this rig was well cared for in a prior life. The middle and rear rows are versatile. You can flip the middle bench forward, and fold the rear jump seats off to the side to expand the cargo hold. Up front, the driver can get comfortable behind a tilt-adjustable steering column, and dual SRS airbags are standard for some added peace of mind. The center stack is easy to navigate, and automatic climate control works like a charm. Rare on most 90’s SUV’s, rear heat and A/C were spec’d in this example too. Ice cold, the air conditioning benefits from a brand new condenser, too. If you prefer more natural ventilation, a large power moonroof tilts and retracts. You can also crank the tunes up, courtesy of Bluetooth-equipped BOSS audio. The woodgrain trim surrounding the switchgear has yet to succumb to unwanted cracks or fading. Accessible and primed for daily use, a full slate of power windows, locks, and power folding mirrors work as expected. The headliner is tight and tidy, and for aspiring overlanders, a factory field monitor sits front and center with a flawless display. Apart from some steering wheel wear, it’s hard to critique this cabin as a whole, and it was clearly cared for in Japan!
Mechanical Overview
Under the hood, it’s hard to go wrong with an engine as tried and true as Toyota’s formidable 5VZ-FE. This Prado shares its DNA with the 3rd generation 4Runner, down to the frame, so parts and servicing are easy as pie! We’ve given this V6 a healthy refresh, and we installed new valve cover gaskets and cam plugs to keep lubrication from the oil and filter service internal. A slight seep from the oil pan was noted as well, which shouldn’t be an issue for a long while. The six-cylinder cranks over with haste, thanks to a new 12v battery, and we installed a new engine air filter and fuel filter for a bit of a tune up. Under full load, this 4×4 feels peppy. It soars up to highway speeds, and if you choose to trudge off the beaten path, the transfer case allows for a center locking differential and low gearing to be selected. The suspension is comfortable and benefits from new front struts and rear upper control arms. We refreshed the power steering system with a full rack rebuild. New seals were installed, as well as new inner and outer tie rods, before it was thrown back in. New front brake pads and rotors benefit the ABS system, and a fresh alignment was performed to polish everything off. Tracking dead straight, we went ahead and installed brand new Falken all terrain tires. Stylish, capable, and sure to last a long while, they make this head-turning rig perform off pavement too!
*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.
