1997 Intercooled Hilux Surf

Sold: $16,995

Subscribe to our mailing list

* indicates required
Please select the vehicles you're interested in:

Stock #5824

In 1997, few SUVs could compare to the N185 in terms of reliability, performance, and functionality. In the US we had the 4Runner, which was nearly perfect. It turns out all it was missing was a hearty turbodiesel engine and a locking center differential, but alas it can be yours. This SSR-G is finished in a lovely Desert Dune Metallic (1A5). Set off by its OEM sport hood, privacy tint, and refinished 16" alloys this five-seater is all business. Aside from a few light dings, and chips associated with normal use, the paint is in good shape and this Surf is fresh off a recent service. At only 155k verified and documented miles, this torquey truck is turn key ready to roll. Spacious and safe these are enthusiast rigs you can pack kids and friends into at a moment's notice. Durable, fun, and practical these Japanese Classics can do just about everything! 

When you are behind the wheel, this Surf never beats you up despite being built upon a body-on-frame platform. In fact, the driver benefits from a full slate of electric amenities, as well as adjustable bolster support and a tilt-adjustable steering column. Power windows, locks, and mirrors all make daily use more enjoyable and work flawlessly. If you want some cold A/C, the simple-to-use automatic climate system is within arms reach. Hot heat can be sourced when called upon as well and for added ventilation, the rear window can be unfurled with the press of a button on the right side of the steering wheel. Directly below the climate unit is an OEM TV/radio. Adding some visual impact tunes can be blasted throughout the cabin at will. Another neat touch is the OEM Field Monitor that rests between the map lights. For overlanders lacking cell service, the direction of travel, a thermometer, and barometric pressure gauge suite are on full display at a glance. The seats are comfortable and trimmed in a "Moon Mist" colored cloth. Aside from some light bolster wear on the driver seat the upholstery is in good shape and lacks any major rips, holes, or tears, The middle row can be folded flat into the floor when additional cargo room is required, and they also have 4-way recline for optimal rear seat comfort, unlike US 4Runners. The door cards are in good shape and aside from a few light stains, the headliner and carpets are in fine condition. There is also some light wear on the steering wheel, but nothing that would require replacement. After all, this is a 25-year-old ride, but with that mentioned, it's held together quite nicely and was cared for in a prior life overseas. 

Under the hood sits the legendary 1KZ-TE. In this intercooled trim, a few extra ponies are uncorked and lower EGTs are another huge benefit, aside from the obvious aesthetic improvement from the scooped hood. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L cranks over care of two new 12v batteries we installed while it was on the lift. New serpentine belts, a new engine air filter, and a new fuel filter all aid the 1KZ-TE in running seamlessly. Many of our clients understand the importance of preventative maintenance and how it relates to the cost of ownership and vehicle longevity. With that in mind, the new owner will surely love that one of our trained technicians replaced the old timing belt and water pump with brand new units. Good for the next six years or 100,000 km, this Hilux is practically begging for a road trip. If you want to hit the highway, the automatic transmission makes good use of the engine's broad torque curve. This rig effortlessly sails up to safe merging speeds on the interstate and is plenty peppy from stoplight to stoplight. It slows down just as well as it accelerates, and the standard ABS brakes have been bolstered with new pads and rotors on the front axle. The multilink suspension is civil on pavement and provides tons of ground clearance if you want to take this thing out on the trails. 4WD can be engaged via a button on the transfer case stick and a locking center differential can be deployed as well. New 31" Falken rubber has been mounted and balanced at all four corners and 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.

Click to read more

Contact for More Information

    Name*

    Phone

    Email*

    Comment