Stock #6483
Exterior Overview
Although Lexus was still ten years away from its Japanese debut, the product was already out there and sold under the Toyota moniker in Japan. This 1997 Aristo is a fine example of the chassis, with its class-leading refinement, abundant safety features, and reliable and stout driveline you can depend on. This one-owner sedan is in impressive shape and is offered with only 82k verified and documented miles on the clock. Finished in a lovely Toyota Black (202) this vertex edition is set off by a black grille, OEM rainguards, and a subtle rear spoiler. Aside from a few light hard water spots, dings, chips, and scuffs the body is in good nick and this JZS160 is fresh off a recent service. Smooth, inexpensive to operate, and loaded to the gills, this ride would make for a competent daily driver or unique and stylish weekend cruiser. Affordable Japanese Classics such as these are hard to come by, and this versatile platform is an incredible overall value!
Interior Overview
When this car arrived we immediately knew it was special by the interior. Some original protective plastics were still intact over the seats and door cards, as this was clearly cared for overseas. It also has a number of upgrades including a crisp-sounding JBL audio system, and an optional power rear sunshade, which is a tough find in operable condition! The center infotainment LCD touchscreen was cutting edge at the time and allows both front occupants to access dual climate zones and mix in A/C or heat when required. An OEM optional air purifier was also spec’d, and works like a charm. Both front seats are powered and include side airbags, a rarity when this sedan was produced. Dual front SRS airbags are also on hand, and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. Wood accents on the shift lever and door trim add some contrast and the cloth seats are in above-average shape. They lack any major imperfections and are supremely comfortable on longer hauls. The legroom is plentiful, as is in the headroom, and the headliner is nearly mint and lacks any sagging or stains. The carpets and door cards are in good nick, too and we feel this cabin condition is far above average compared to the typical Aristo, despite some UV damage to the touch screen and distortion on the driver’s door card. Power windows, electric door locks, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion. Cruise control is standard and the steering column is powered, able to telescope and tilt. Even the owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets are stored safely in the glove box.
Mechanical Overview
The chassis and running gear is all shared with our GS300s, which means you can source parts with immediacy. The 2JZ-GTE under the hood is a silky smooth powerplant and is fresh off an oil and filter service. It springs to life care of a new 12v battery. To keep it charged, we also replaced the alternator while it was on the lift. The 2JZ is quiet and refined, and the transmission shifts in the same fashion. This sedan is a rear driver and feels balanced and insulated from the road. It makes good power for a naturally aspirated mill and hopping on the highway is a stress-free affair, as the Aristo sails up to interstate speeds with aplomb. The ABS brakes slow it down quickly and brand new pads and rotors up front reduce stopping distances. The suspension gobbles up road imperfections, and for state inspection, we replaced the front caster arms and performed a fresh alignment to prolong the life of the Advan tires. The long wheelbase distributed bumps well and logging tons of highway miles is what this chassis excels at. The power string is light and on point and the turn radius is tight and tidy. Ideal as a reliable commuter, pavement-pounding road tripper, or unique family hauler this lovely Aristo leaves little to be desired.
*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.
