1997 Hilux Surf Diesel

Available for: $17,495

Stock #6267

It's unbelievable that the Hilux Surf and 4Runner marques are entering their 44th year of production. The model has some serious staying power thanks to its reliable mechanicals, low cost of ownership, and off-road pedigree. This 1997 is also quite the looker, with its fresh coat of Sepang Bronze (A32) paint. Aside from a front right fender replacement in Japan and a few light blemishes, the body condition is good, and this SSR-X is complemented by a set of expensive WEDS Keeler alloys and some subtle privacy tint. Fresh off a recent service, this hearty turbodiesel 4x4 is offered with a mere 132k verified and documented miles on the clock. Packing enough room for five and a bunch of cargo, this practical SUV would make for a killer year-round family hauler, cool campsite cruiser, or unique weekend warrior. Collectible, determined, and fun to drive, this Japanese Classic is a surefire bet! 

The cabin is in good shape overall, and is spacious and nicely equipped. The driver and front passenger both benefit from dual SRS airbags and a commanding view of the road ahead. The dashboard is protected by a custom cover which also obscures some prior damage from an aftermarket navigation screen. A simple-to-operate auto climate control system is mounted centrally, heat and A/C are doled out upon request and if you prefer natural ventilation, the side windows and rear glass power down with the press of a button. Additionally, the driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and manually adjustable lumbar support to find the ideal driving position. Keyless entry, power locks, and power mirrors all function, making daily use more enjoyable. The Moon Mist upholstery is in good shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear row 4-way reclines and also tumbles forward to maximize the cargo area. Aside from some light distortion around the glovebox area, a missing head unit, and a couple of scratches on the interior panels in the cargo area, it's awful hard to complain about the Hilux. 

Sharing a chassis and running gear with Stateside 4Runners, this rig is easy to maintain and inexpensive to repair and modify. The largest difference between this truck and a 4Runner is the powerplant. Sadly not offered in the US, the 1KZ-TE is a legendary engine and is just about one of the most reliable drivetrains we sell. The 2982cc mill is fresh off an oil and filter service and turns over with a twist of the key thanks to a new 12v battery. To keep all that lubricant internal, we replaced a leaky old valve cover gasket with a new one. Thermal management is handled by a brand-new radiator, too, so feel free to hit the road, even in the dog days of summer. A fresh fuel filter and air filter work to maximize power and fuel economy and a new accessory belt keeps the electronics properly powered. The 1K provides tons of low-down torque that is fed through a stout automatic gearbox. So that the unit stays reliable, we performed a fluid exchange on the gearbox. For the best straight-line performance and tip-top fuel economy, we recommend the driver send power to the rear axle alone. If you hit the beach or a rocky mountain trail, 4WD can be engaged on the fly. A low-range and center locker are also available for the worst of the worst road conditions. The suspension has received a refresh and new rear shocks, upper rear trailing arms, and front lower control arms keep the handling compliant. Predictable and connected, this platform is steady on the highway and balanced when tooling around town. The ABS brakes confidently slow this Surf down and the front rotors and pads were replaced here in house. We also took care of the rear shoes, which are brand new as well. The power steering system is nicely weighted and is fresh off a flush, too. Easy to articulate and benefiting from new front sway bar links, this Toyota is maneuverable and parking is a stress-free affair. New 31" Falken tires are wrapped over the WEDS wheels and will provide tens of thousands of miles of grip thanks to a fresh alignment. 

*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.

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