Stock #6587
Exterior Overview
The Surf is a trusty midsize SUV. We would also describe it as athletic, handsome, and easy to own. The model has tons of appeal, and this 1997 is no exception. Finished in a crisp Desert Dune Metallic (1A5), this rig is adorned with an OEM spare tire swingarm, OEM rainguards, refinished gunmetal OEM 16″ alloys, and some subtle privacy tint. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the body is in good shape, and this five-seater is fresh off a recent service. Offered with only 98k verified and documented miles on the clock, this turbodiesel brute is barely broken in! Performance enthusiasts will rejoice, as this example was also ordered from the factory with a rare manual gearbox. Boasting fifty percent better fuel economy than its gasoline counterpart, this SSR-X is fast, fun, and frugal. If you need a fantastic family hauler or cool campsite cruiser, this terrific Toyota has you covered. Practical, capable, and cool, this is a Japanese Classic forever!
Interior Overview
The cabin is in above-average shape and was clearly cared for overseas. Toyota emphasized safety, adding dual SRS airbags and ABS brakes as standard equipment. The swept dashboard design is modern-looking, and lacks any cracking or distortion. The center stack includes a simple-to-use automatic climate system and two sets of pull-out cupholders. The heat is boiling hot, and we have tested the A/C, which cools the cockpit down to give you a break from summer swelters. The OEM audio below sounds decent too, supplementing your road trip. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support to find the ideal driving position. Power windows, power rear glass, power locks, and power mirrors all function in typical Toyota fashion, improving the motoring experience. The seats are trimmed in tan-colored cloth. The middle row can split-fold and four-way recline for optimal rear seat comfort. The durable material lacks any major rips, stains, or tears, and is mirrored in the door cards. The headliner and carpets have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining much abuse, and overall, it’s hard to nitpick the interior aside from the power folding mirror function giving up the ghost and a nonfunctional clock. Still at nearly 30 years old the cabin condition is impressive and even the OEM owners manuals are included with the purchase.
Mechanical Overview
The 1KZ-TE under the hood is a nearly bulletproof engine. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L churns to life care of two new 12V batteries. To keep the four-banger running right as rain, we replaced the fuel filter like all of our diesels. We also replaced the weary old valve cover gasket with a new one and took care of the half moon seal while we were in there. The 1K is linked to a manual gearbox. It benefits from a new shifter seal and delivers a level of control absent from slushbox-equipped models. The transfer case allows the pilot to choose between 2WD and 4WD on the fly. For low-traction scenarios, a center locking differential and low range can be engaged to keep the Surf trotting forward. It gets up to cruising speeds quickly and is peppy from stoplight to stoplight. It also slows down quickly thanks to its standard ABS brakes. The suspension was rehabbed prior to this Toyota’s state inspection. New rear upper and lower control arms were installed, and we also replaced the front swaybar links. The ride is predictable and connected for an SUV, and grip is handled by four brand-new 31″ Falken tires. The power steering is light, and parking is a snap. It goes straight as an arrow thanks to a fresh alignment, which will also prolong the life of the brand-new rubber. Turn key and ready to rock, this rare manual, turbodiesel Surf won’t last long!
*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.
