1997 Hilux Surf KZN185

Sold: $18,995

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As many American consumers are aware, the 4Runner is known for its dogged reliability and 4x4 drivetrain. Now us stateside SUV lovers can rejoice, because our turbodiesel, center-locked beast is full of upgrades and options never seen on our shores. This 1997 is finished in Desert Dune Metallic (1A5) and is set off by a set of OEM rainguards, a sporty graphics package, rear privacy tint, and refinished factory alloys. Aside from some light dings, chips, and scuffs associated with normal use, the body and paint are in good shape overall. Offered with a mere 113k verified and documented miles, this recently serviced five-seater is turn-key and ready to roll. As a daily driver, family hauler, or sporty trail rig this Toyota would be perfect. Collectible, reliable, performance-oriented, and practical, this N185 is a Japanese Classic is a winner!

The cabin is spacious and nicely appointed. It's clear the truck was cared for in a prior life, as even the factory carpet mats and Japanese owners manuals are included with the purchase. The dashboard lacks any cracking or distortion aside from a slight peel on the passenger side corner. Dual SRS airbags are standard which add some reassurance when behind the wheel and the driver also receives a tilt-adjustable steering column and additional lumbar adjustment. Other electric amenities include power windows, door locks, rear glass, and electric mirrors, which all work as advertised. Automatic climate control and cold A/C are on hand for the dog days of summer and the heat is more than toasty, too. The rear window also rolls down to provide a light breeze if you'd like. The seats are trimmed in a durable blue corduroy-like cloth. They lack any major rips, tears, or holes, and are comfortable on longer drives. Unlike American versions the rear seats actually 4-way reclinable so those in the back can rest easy. If you want to jam out to some tunes, a JVC headunit upgrade is on standby and works like a charm. The door cards have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining any major abuse, and aside from some light staining on the carpets, headliner, and seats, it's really hard to complain about the cabin! 

Under the bonnet is the trusty 1KZ-TE. This 3.0L is fresh off an oil and filter service and starts up promptly thanks to a new 12v battery that was recently installed here in the shop. We also replaced the valve cover gasket to ensure the 3.0L stays topped up on oil. The engine idles with confidence and is linked to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission. The driver can select whether 2WD or 4WD is preferred, and if the going gets tough, a center locker and low-range gearing can be deployed. Around town or on the highway this Surf is civil and refined. It accelerates impressively thanks to a prodigious amount of low-end torque and can return some impressive MPG when your right foot is out of the throttle. To refresh the driveline we added new inner and outer tie rods as well as a new set of boots. The brakes feel confident and the power steering is light and assisted. Lastly, four 31" Falkens were mounted and balanced at all four corners. The oversized rubber looks mean but more importantly, will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. 

*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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