1997 Toyota Prado TX

Sold: $23,495

Subscribe to our mailing list

* indicates required
Please select the vehicles you're interested in:

Stock#5498

The 90 Series Prados have been quite a pleasant surprise to us at the dealership. It offers more space and refinement than we initially expected and can be had at an affordable price point. It also boasts a slate of nearly bulletproof drivetrains that power a full-time 4WD system. This 1997 TX is offered with a mere 137k verified and documented miles, and is fresh off a recent service performed here stateside. Finished in A Stellar Blue over Gray Metallic two-tone (K14), this eight-seater is set off by a stylish set of 17" WEDS Keeler alloys, OEM rain guards, a factory front brush guard, and a unique rear spoiler. If that wasn't enough it even has the OEM rear privacy windows and naval-themed OEM vinyl. The body and paint are in good condition aside from some light scuffs, dings, and scratches associated with normal use. Safe, practical, and collectible, this determined five-speed Land Cruiser is a dream to drive and is just as comfortable off the beaten path as it is on the tarmac. For the JDM enthusiast looking for a killer overlander, daily driver, or kid hauler this turbodiesel J95 is a great value and is a certified collectible Japanese Classic.

The cabin offers plenty more volume than the smaller Hilux Surf models that are slotted below the Prados within Toyota's portfolio of SUVs. Dual SRS airbags were standard, as is ABS, and this TX is safer than the 70 it replaced. The view of the road ahead is clear and commanding and the dashboard lacks any cracking or distortion. An OEM field monitor is mounted centrally atop it, and below is a simple to use automatic climate control system. Both work as advertised and the latter blows cold A/C which is key this time of year. Yes, the radio is missing but that's an easy fix and is inexpensive. Power equipment surrounds the driver including electric locks, and power-adjustable mirrors, which are power-fold as well. These all work like a charm and the driver also benefits also from an adjustable steering column. The blue textured cloth seats are in good nick and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The material oozes 90's appeal and is durable, too. That's not to say the cabin is perfect as the cupholder cover is broken as they typically are, and there is some leather wear on the steering wheel obscured by a cover. The carpets, headliner, and door cards have withstood major abuse over the years, and overall it's clear the car was cared for in a prior life. It even still has the factory owners' manuals and OEM maintenance booklet still inside the glovebox!

Toyota was building its best drivelines during the mid-1990s and this vehicle is a prime example of the brand's commitment to quality. An improved intercooled version of the legendary 1KZ-TE was sourced to power this rig. The 3.0L is fresh off an oil and filter service, and starts right up compliments of two new 12v batteries we installed while it was in our shop. The engine is connected to a five-speed manual gearbox, and despite its heavy curb weight, they accelerate quite well. The stick makes the truck more fun and involved to drive, and the gearbox lacks any grinding. For those planning to hit a few trails, a center locker can be engaged as can low-range 4WD, making the J95 feel nearly unstoppable in most scenarios. On pavement new rear shocks improve the ride and were installed by one of our trained techs. There are very few squeaks or rattles to note in the cabin, and if you close your eyes as a passenger it's easy to mistake this platform for a Lexus GX. The steering is power-assisted and light, while the brakes feel composed and offer a decent pedal feel. Before it passed its state inspection we replaced the tired Japanese rubber with 32" Falken's. We also replaced the spare and the new rubber looks tough, but more importantly will last for tens of thousands of miles to come.

*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.

Click to read more

Contact for More Information

    Name*

    Phone

    Email*

    Comment