Stock #7183
Exterior Overview
Seasoned Toyota vets and keen enthusiasts may already be aware, but the new Toyota Land Cruiser shares more of its DNA with this Prado model than the full-sized SUV’s of yore. Fortunately, you don’t need to shell out over 60 grand to have the same experience, as this 1998 J95 is the perfect classic SUV for the modern age. Boasting just 133k verified and documented miles, and finished in a sleek Nighthawk Black Pearl (B92-P), this five-door J95 is in good condition overall. It is set off by a J90 front end conversion, LED tail lamps, FJ Cruiser alloys, OEM rainguards, and a 2″ lift. It’s also an appealing vessel for passengers, as third-row seating, ample headroom, and full power equipment are all standard. With full-time 4WD and the same running gear as USDM 4Runners, why wouldn’t you spring for this rugged, reliable, and spacious Japanese Classic?
Interior Overview
Preceding the Lexus GX model here in the States, the J95’s interior offers way more form and function than your average Surf or 4Runner. It comes with an optional stowable third row, a safer cabin structure, and increased head and legroom to ensure road tripping is a painless affair. The driver can tilt-adjust the steering column at will, and a sleek woodgrain Nardi steering wheel feels good in the palms of your hands. The switchgear is at hand and easy to operate, and is integrated nicely into the center stack. An automatic climate control unit can dial in cold A/C and hot heat, and if you prefer an open-air driving experience, the engineers at Toyota came prepared. A sizable power moonroof can open and close on command, and the rear quarter glass can open up slightly to let some natural ventilation through. The dash materials are in good shape overall, with no excessive fading or distortion, and a passenger SRS airbag is present to provide your front-seat occupant with some added peace of mind. Upgraded touch-screen Eclipse audio plays clear throughout the cabin, and the sound quality is actually above average, which is impressive for a vehicle of this vintage. Comfort was clearly Toyota’s priority when designing this cabin, and the patterned cloth upholstery has a plush texture. Clearly cared for in a prior life, it lacks any major rips, stains, or tears, and coddles passengers nicely. To prioritize cargo space, the middle row can split-fold and flip forward, and the third row is easy to deploy, hand against the D-pillar, or remove completely. Power windows, locks, and mirrors work like a charm, and the latter electronically fold to help you squeeze into tighter parking spots. All in all, it’s hard to find fault with this cabin. It’s clean, comfortable, and even the factory field monitor still displays clearly!
Mechanical Overview
Under the skin, this big, lifted Prado is remarkably similar to a 4Runner. In fact, we typically service them with all the same parts. It’s fresh off an oil and filter service here at the shop, where we performed loads of great maintenance to get it ready to drive daily. A new 12v battery was tossed in, and we flushed in new coolant while it was on the lift. A new valve cover gasket was installed alongside a new oil pump seal and distributor O-ring, and this I-4 doesn’t sweat a drop! This Prado has no issues getting up to highway speeds with ease, and an automatic transmission was flushed with new fluid, making gear changes seamless. Power is distributed among all four wheels via a full-time 4WD transfercase. For real-deal off-road types, a center locker and low range are on hand if you want to crawl! The suspension benefits from new Eibach lift shocks all the way around, and we installed new front lower control arms and lower ball joints too. The rear upper and lower control arms and front swaybar links were also replaced, and this Prado passed state inspection with flying colors. The frame is in far above average shape, which should make further servicing a walk in the park for the next owner. Easy to maneuver, the power steering is light on its feet, and the ABS brakes stop on a dime. The late-model FJ wheels look killer on this lifted, black SUV, and we clad them in fresh Falken all-terrain rubber. Lastly, she went up on the alignment rack to get dialed in. Stylish and clean, this truck makes a statement, whether it’s driven or parked!
*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.
