1997 Toyota Aristo

Sold: $13,995

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Stock #5812

With the end of the millennium in sight, Toyota was keen on dominating the market domestically in Japan, and abroad. The second generation Aristo arrived in 1997, and this smooth-riding sedan was an instant hit. Loads of tech, safety features, and power amenities could be found in this bang-up redesign, and the styling was universally loved. Set off by a set of OEM raingaurds, a factory rear spoiler, and rear privacy tint, this stellar JZS160 is finished in a classic Alpine Silver (199). Aside from some light chips, dings, and scuffs from normal use, the paint is in good nick overall, and this recently serviced five-seater is offered with a mere 58k verified miles. Ideal as a comfortable daily driver, weekend cruiser, or even as a clean slate for a unique VIP build, this reliable Japanese Classic is fit for duty and ready to roll!

The cabin was cared for overseas in Japan and it shows. The sport upholstery, in its blue and gray textured charcoal, is in above-average condition and lacks any major rips stains, or tears. The view of the road ahead is unencumbered for the driver and an electric tilt-adjustable steering column and power front seat to find the ideal driving position. To the left of the steering wheel Toyota's factory air purifier can be controlled with its variable speeds, filtering out air impurities within the passenger cell. The copilot also receives a power seat, too, so they don't feel left out. The dashboard is in good shape and doesn't suffer from any age-related distortion or cracking. Dual front SRS airbags complement dual SRS side airbags, and peace of mind for those who are safety conscious.  An OEM nav/tv/radio sits front and center and works like a charm. The audio clarity is surprising for a vehicle of this age and supplements the sweet six-cylinder soundtrack emanating from the engine bay. The standard digital climate control is easy to operate, and pipes in heat or cold A/C on demand. Power folding side mirrors, electric locks, and power windows all operate as they should, making daily use enjoyable. The headliner is in good shape, as are the door cards and the carpets have withstood the past twenty-five years without sustaining major abuse. Very little road noise filters into the cabin, and you can tell Toyota didn't skimp on the sound-deading material. Overall, the tidy cabin is impressive and the next one will surely love its friendly confines. 

As a platform, the Aristo is confident and assured. Over rough pavement, it is unflappable and poised. It glides down the highway, too, with its long wheelbase and soft suspesion. Powered by a VVT-i version of the legendary 2JZ-GE, this engine whirrs to life care of a new 12v battery. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the six-cylinder is almost silent while operating, and translates little if any vibration through the cabin. The 3.0L creates decent down-low torque and revs happily all the way to redline. The automatic transmission makes really good use of the 2Js powerband and feeds power to the rear wheels. For lacking forced induction, it's quite impressive how well this heavyweight accelerates. You can also rest assured as an owner knowing this naturally aspirated mill is easy to work on and has to deal with less heat than the turbo versions of the engine. The balanced nature of the platform pays dividends, and while this is no open-wheeled race car, it handles nicely down curvy roads and is stable as a rock at higher speeds. If you plan to take extended trips, the OEM cruise control is only a click away. One of our trained techs has replaced the old lower ball joints with new ones, and now this Toyota is driving tip-top. The ABS brakes are confident and the power steering is weighted properly and is communicative. The Yokohama S-Drive tires are deep in tread mounted on the chrome factory alloys and this lovely Aristo is dying for a road trip! 

*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.

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