Stock #6213

Toyota aimed its sights at the 3 Series and C-Class when creating the Altezza. The Germans had seemingly mastered the sport sedan segment, but the Japanese felt they could disrupt the market with a front engine, and rear drive saloon. This 1998 RS200 edition was the result of many hours of hard work, and the result is a balanced and revvy vehicle that is a joy to drive. It also looks handsome, with its wide rear haunches and short overhangs. This example features a lowered ride height, and is finished in an eye-catching Graphite Gray Pearl (1C6). Its set off by 18" PDW 18x8 ET40 alloys and some subtle privacy tint. Aside from a few light dings, scuffs, and chips, the paint is in good nick and this five-seater is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 92k verified and documented miles on the clock, this SXE10 is barely broken in. Reliable enough to be daily driven and tactile enough for a day at the track, this fun, communicative platform is one of the best, and a certified Japanese Classic. 

The cabin is more modern-looking than its contemporaries at the time. The dashboard, which lacks any cracking or fading, is contoured and sculpted like modern offerings. The switchgear is all at hand and the gauge cluster is one of the most unique and upscale designs of the era. The automatic climate control is simple to use and intuitive. The large buttons are easy to manipulate and a new thermostat has been installed so that the heat is properly supplied to the cabin. A/C is available for the summer months, and directly above is the OEM navigation system. As the maps are useless, the driver can also tuck away the display into the dash for better visibility. The OEM audio works like a charm and jazzes up the daily commute. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering wheel and functional power windows, power-folding mirrors, keyless entry, and power locks. The seats are in above-average shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear row has decent legroom and even a pass-through for a set of skis. The headliner, door cards, and carpets have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse. Aside from a tiny rip on the e-brake boot this Altezza is in remarkably good shape and was cared for in a prior life overseas.

The 3S-GE under the hood steals the show. This BEAMS engine is legendary, and its a high-revving power profile is a delight for those who like to drive spiritedly. Fresh off an oil and filter service the 2.0L churns over promptly care of a new 12v battery. A new valve cover gasket was chucked in so that the new owner of this Altezza need not constantly top off the oil.  A new fuel pump has also been installed, as has a new fuel filter, and new spark plugs to ensure proper atomization of the petrol. The VVT-i-equipped mill is linked to a six-speed manual gearbox. One of our trained techs has replaced the clutch so that all the power is fed to the rear wheels, and this service will save the new owners some money down the road. While we were in there we also replaced the rear main seal, as it was easy to access. The Altezza accelerates nicely for a 1998 and merging up to highway speeds is a fun affair when hammering the throttle up to the 7,800 rpm redline. This chassis gets even better in the twisties and the adjustable coilovers are brand new. The vehicle's structure is further stiffened by a Tanabe front strut tower brace and an aftermarket rear brace. The lower the center of gravity from the coilovers and allow the RS200 to hunker down and adhere to the road. The ABS brakes are responsive and tidy and new tires have been mounted and balanced at each corner to promote grip and reduce road noise. The new all seasons will last a long time thanks to a fresh alignment and this turn-key sled is retail-ready to roll! 

*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.