Stock #6516
Exterior Overview
It may come as a surprise to some, but most of our customers are first-time RHD owners. It all starts to make sense when you look at trucks like this 1997 Hilux Surf. It’s cleaner than a USDM 4Runner, has tallied a fraction of the miles, and is backed by the best powerplant we never received here in the States, the intercooled 1KZ-TE. It looks spiffy too, finished in Toyota Black/Silver, and set off by an optional rear spoiler, a factory spare tire swingarm, OEM rainguards, a sport hood, and refinished OEM 16″ alloys. Better yet, the 108k miles on the clock are verified and documented, which adds to this model’s collectability. Aside from some clearcoat loss on the roof and some light swirls and scratches from normal use, the paint is in good shape overall. This Surf would make a phenomenal daily. It’s loaded with equipment, is extraordinarily capable off tarmac, and gets top-tier fuel economy to boot. Get behind the wheel and discover why this is the most popular Japanese Classic we retail!
Interior Overview
The interior is in above average shape overall, and is finished in a durable charcoal cloth with multicolor inserts. Resisting any major wear and tear over the past 27 years, the seats show no discernible defects apart from some light bolster wear on the driver’s side. The dashboard vinyl is taut and tidy, without any distortion or cracking typically seen on Toyota dashes of this vintage. The Limited carbon fiber trim in the center stack is also clean, and frames a simple-to-use automatic climate control unit. Trudging into the winter ahead, the heat blows piping hot, and cold A/C isn’t too far behind to tackle the dog days of summer. An OEM audio system is also on hand to supplement your commute with some tunes. For summer cruising, power windows unfurl rapidly all the way around, including the rear hatch glass and an optional power moonroof. Power locks and mirrors work too and aid daily use tremendously. The rear seats are versatile and can create a flat loading floor to fit more cargo. They also 4-way rear recline to add a bit of comfort to the experience for those seated in the back. A digital field monitor is positioned adjacent to the map lights and displays some useful data on outside conditions. The headliner is tidy, as are the carpets, and as an added bonus we retained the maintenance booklet and a spare key to help protect your investment!
Mechanical Overview
The 1KZ-TE under the bonnet sports a desirable factory intercooler and is fresh off a recent service by our trained technicians. It cranks over with haste, care of a new 12v battery, and the diesel chugs along nicely after a fresh oil and filter service and a new fuel filter. A new set of serpentine belts drive your accessories reliably, and a new valve cover gasket was installed to keep any necessary lubricant from escaping. With the maintenance performed, the 1KZ jets up to highway speeds with substantial low-end torque, and gear changes are handled by a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox. Power is thrown at a selective transfercase and can kick into 4WD on demand if you need to tackle a rocky trail. For off-road die hards, an optional center locker can be engaged, too, splitting torque 50/50 front and rear. It also soaks up bumps and divots with ease, and the power steering is nicely weighted to boot. A new output seal was installed on the transfercase to shore up the drivetrain a bit, and we freshly aligned this truck to keep it tracking straight as an arrow. The ABS brakes stop on a dime, and to further aid grip, stopping power, and on-road comfort, fresh 31″ Falken A/T tires were installed on all four corners.
*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.
