Stock #6826
Exterior Overview
Although it bears the Land Cruiser nameplate, this 97 J95 Prado is closer in nature to the nimble and compact 4Runner. That’s because they share the same frame, and a majority of the mechanicals, and this turbodiesel model is the cream of the crop. It also looks dang good, refinished here in house in a fresh coat of Cement Grey, and set off by a chrome JAOS brushguard and ladder, matching JAOS mudflaps, and refinished factory alloy wheels. The rare bits and bobs help the cosmetics look the part, and save for a few minor imperfections the condition should please most discerning enthusiasts. Best of all, the 106k miles on the clock are verified, and documented, which is really impressive for a 28 year old truck! These Prados are Toyota’s best kept secret. With a larger and more spacious cabin, intercooled diesel power, and a go-anywhere fulltime 4WD layout, this might be the perfect Japanese Classic SUV!
Interior Overview
The interior hits the mark in more ways than one. It’s spacious, like a full size Cruiser should be, it’s packed with power amenities to make daily driving easy, and the condition of the materials is above average, indicating this 90 series was well cared for in a prior life. The grey cloth upholstery is the star of the show, with colored patterned inserts and seating arrangements for up to eight! The cloth shows no discernible rips, stains, or tears from daily use, which is truly impressive, and the dash cover is in equally good shape. The center stack features an easy to use automatic climate control system, which has cold A/C and hot heat on the ready, and a Pioneer headunit comes pre-loaded with a slew of Japanese jams. The audio quality isn’t half bad either! Power windows, locks, and electronic folding side mirrors are in good working order, to assist daily use The seating arrangements are versatile. The third row can fold up and stow against the d-pillars to expand the cargo hold, and the middle bench can flip fully forward to accommodate a trip to the flea market or hardware store. Still at 28, perfection isn’t possible, and we wanted to note the factory field monitor is no longer operable. The carpets are protected by some snazzy OEM mats, and we even retained the factory owner’s manual and maintenance booklets to help protect this airtight SUV investment!
Mechanical Overview
The intercooled 1KZ-TE under the hood is as solid as they come. Packing a few extra ponies and reduced exhaust temps over its non-intercooled sibling, these four bangers are known to take a lickin and keep on tickin. Our trained technicians have shored this one up for the road ahead, performing a comprehensive service that extends to some expensive drivetrain maintenance as well. It cranks over with haste, and chugs along at idle after a fresh oil and filter service. New accessory belts keep the 3.0 free of unwanted slips or squeaks, and a new thermostat was installed to keep temperatures in check. We also installed a new valve cover gasket, and dropped in a new engine air filter for a bit of a tune up. The engine makes exceptional torque, and power is more than sufficient even at highway speeds. An automatic gearbox commands your shifts, and it benefits from new front axle seals and a transmission fluid flush. The transfer case fluid was also exchanged, and the fulltime 4WD slides in and out of high and low gear with ease. A center locking differential can also be engaged for maximum grip on loose surfaces. The stock suspension can handle rigorous terrain, and while a few components are starting to show their age they passed state safety inspection with flying colors. The power steering system was overhauled with a fresh rack rebuild. We tore down the rack and pinion, replaced the seals, and slapped on new inner and outer tie rods, rack boots, and rack bushings for the install. It was also freshly aligned on our lift afterwards. The factory alloys are wrapped in brand new Falken all-terrains, and with the maintenance performed, this handsome Prado should be primed and ready to deliver years of enjoyable RHD ownership!
*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.
