Stock #6579
Exterior Overview
The Surf represents capability, reliability, efficiency, and power in equal parts. This 1997 intercooled model is a top trim example and is set off by a set of OEM rainguards, 16″ alloys, a factory sport hood, spare tire swingarm, and an optional rear spoiler. The fresh Bamboo Pearl (61T) paint is in good nick, too, aside from some minor paint defects associated with normal use. Best of all are the verified and documented miles, of which this SSR-G has logged only 65k. Fresh off a recent service, this 4×4 would make for a mean mountain machine, decent daily driver, or wicked weekend cruiser. Easy to service and affordable to buy, this SUV is our sales leader for a reason, and is a bonafide Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The cabin is simple, clean, and nicely optioned. Upgrades include an OEM field monitor which displays the outside conditions to those within the cockpit. Other updates include a touchscreen Pioneer head unit, with Bluetooth hands-free integration. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Power mirrors, locks, and windows all work in typical Toyota fashion making daily use more enjoyable. The Moon Mist colored cloth is in above-average condition. The upholstery matches the door cards and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear row can split fold and tumble forward to create a flat loading floor. The headliner and carpets are in fine shape and have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse. Aside from the power folding mirror function giving up the ghost and some dash delamination by the passenger airbag, it’s hard to complain about the cabin at all! It even includes the OEM carpet mats in excellent shape.
Mechanical Overview
Under the hood is one heck of an engine. The 3.0L 1KZ-TE is a lovable brute, known for its determined spirit, ease of ownership, and high efficiency. This intercooled model creates about 20 more ponies and lowers EGTs, too, which can be beneficial on long highway hauls. With two new 12v batteries installed, this four-banger churns to life and is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new fuel filter keeps unwanted contaminants out of the 1K and we also replaced the valve cover gasket and half-moon seal to keep the oil level on full. The four-pot pulls hard to redline and produces gobs of torque. It’s linked to a stout automatic gearbox. The transfercase allows the driver to engage 4WD on the fly and a center locker can affix power 50/50 front and rear. For low traction scenarios and beach outings, a low range can be engaged, too. The factory adjustable suspension is planted and predictable. One of our trained techs has also performed a complete refresh to sort out the ride quality. New front lower control arms and new front sway bar links and bushings were replaced. We also rehabbed the steering system with a fully rebuilt rack and new steering rack bushings. Inner and outer tie rods were installed to pass state safety inspection and the ABS brakes were improved with new front brake pads and rotors. The new 31″ Falkens will last for a good while, thanks to a fresh alignment, and they look mean as heck! Turn key and ready to roll, this special Surf is about as good as it gets and is something we only see a few times a year.
*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.
