Stock #6459
Exterior Overview
The Surf is one tough cookie of a truck, and our most popular SUV offering by a long shot. This 1997 is a top-tier model, with its intercooled 3.0L diesel and trusty 4WD. Finished in Black (204) this rig is set off by WEDS Keeler alloys, a factory rear spare tire swing arm, an aggressive rear spoiler, privacy tint, and an OEM scooped sport hood. Needless to say, it assumes a strictly business aesthetic and shows well outside of a few light dings, chips, and scuffs racked up from daily use. Having logged only 139k verified and documented miles, this terrific truck is reliable, performance-oriented, and barely broken in. Japanese Classics like these don’t break the bank, and are cult favorites to this day, twenty-five years after they rolled off dealer lots!
Interior Overview
The cabin of this SSR-G leaves little to be desired and is in good shape overall. It comes with a few modern upgrades, such as the optional power sunroof and a Bluetooth-equipped Kenwood audio system. The driver benefits from a tilt adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support, and a rear backup mirror that drops down from the spoiler. Power folding mirrors, power locks, and power windows all work as advertised making daily use enjoyable. Located by the map lights, an optional OEM Field monitor displays the outside conditions to those in the cabin. The seating surfaces are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The middle row is four-way reclinable and also tumbles forward and folds flat to create a sizable cargo area. To expand the amount of usable space in the rear, the glass powers down, and delivers some natural ventilation through the cabin. The headliner and door cards are in good nick and aside from some light carpet staining, a small bit of armrest wear, and light dash distortion by the corner of the glove box it’s really hard to complain about the interior. We’d say it’s in impressive shape for being 27 years young!
Mechanical Overview
Under the hood is one of Toyota’s crown jewels, the 1KZ-TE. This intercooled version makes more power and runs lower EGTs than its non-intercooled sibling, and is considered highly desirable amongst enthusiasts. Fresh off an oil and filter service the 3.0L churns to life quickly and settles into a smooth idle. One of our trained techs performed a coolant flush, which won’t be due for another four years. Easing the car into gear is made much more seamless thanks to some new shifter bushings and the gearbox shifts properly, making good use of the prodigious low-end torque provided by the 1KZ. The little four-banger feels exceptionally healthy, pulling strong up to highway speeds, which it maintains just fine, and this Surf also scoots from stoplight to stoplight. The selective transfer case has settings for 2WD and 4WD high and low. If a beach outing is planned or some bad snow comes your way, an optional OEM center locker can be engaged for extra traction. One of our trained techs performed a fluid service on the front and rear differential, as well as the transfer case itself. The ABS brakes feel confident slowing this rig down and the power steering is direct and communicative. The suspension is predictable and benefits from new front ball joints, and new rear upper and lower control arms for state inspection. The Keelers are wrapped in aggressive 31″ Falkens which are knee-deep in tread. A fresh alignment will keep them lasting long and the Surf drives straight as an arrow.
*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.
