Stock #7058
Exterior Overview
Throughout the years, Toyota’s Hilux Surf has proven to be an enduring model. It’s a spiffy, stalwart SUV, with powertrains beloved by enthusiasts and common folk alike. With such a stellar report card, how could the chassis get any better? Add a robust intercooled turbodiesel motor and a few select styling cues, and this 1997 SSR-X has your answer. Set off by an optional rear spoiler, OEM rainguards, OEM scooped bonnet, Ganador exhaust, and slick 16″ BERG wheels, this Surf is fashioned in Evergreen Pearl (751) and shows well, save for a few minor bumps and bruises, and a missing spare tire arm. With only 99k verified and documented miles, this Surf would be the enthusiast’s choice, and a standout rig on the trails or the tarmac. This body-on-frame beast is turn-key and ready to rock, and a true all-season warrior. Modern in essence and old-school in construction, this is a Japanese Classic that fits right in on our stateside shores.
Interior Overview
The interior matches the exterior aesthetic to a T. It’s fashioned in a durable, patterned cloth and was clearly well cared for in a prior life. The “moon mist” upholstery is almost corduroy in texture, and the grey vinyl dash shows no discernible defects, cracks, or UV distortion common on these models. The center stack is accessible and features a USDM audio upgrade to boot. The new BOSS audio system is on hand to supplement your cruising, with Bluetooth functionality to pump in your own tunes. Power windows, locks, and electric mirrors are on hand too, to assist with your daily commute. Cold A/C and hot heat work like a charm, but when natural ventilation takes priority, the rear glass can unfurl too, with the push of a button. The rear bench is versatile, folding flat should you need to lug around extra cargo, and the seat backs recline slightly for optimal passenger comfort. A factory field monitor is handy too to keep you and your passengers up to date on weather and direction of travel. Overall, it’s hard to nitpick the cabin as it was cared for extremely well overseas, although there is some minor wear to the touch points. All in all, the condition really impresses, and we’ve retained the factory carpet mats and a few spare keys. Even the keyless entry still works!
Mechanical Overview
The intercooled 1KZ-TE under the hood is the stuff dreams are made of, and for good reason. This 3.0 turbodiesel packs more ponies than its non-intercooled counterpart, and runs lower EGT’s to boot, which pays dividends on long highway journeys. It’s also fresh off of loads of good service, and cranks over with haste thanks to 2 new 12v batteries that were installed here at the shop. For those in colder climates, this upgraded cold cranking amperage is key! A fresh coolant flush was performed, and a new lower radiator hose was installed so that the diesel can properly regulate temperatures. For a bit of a tune-up, the engine air filter and fuel filter were replaced, and this torquey large-displacement four-banger is a treat to drive overall. An automatic transmission commands gear changes, and power is sent to a selective transfercase. For around-town cruising, power and fuel economy are maximized in standard 2WD. A press of the button engages 4WD, and an optional center locker and low range are handy if the going gets tough. The suspension is comfortable and compliant over larger road imperfections, and new rear shocks, and new front sway bar links and bushings were installed to keep things that way. The power steering is direct and on point, and four new Falken tires are mounted up on the Bergs, and look stylish against the two-tone paintwork. They’ll do the job on all surfaces, delivering grip for tens of thousands of miles to come after we freshly aligned it on our state of the art rack!
*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.
