1998 HiAce Super Custom

SOLD

Stock #5882

Stock #5882The van segment in Japan has always been popular, and now we here in the States are starting to reap the benefits twenty-five years after the fact. This 1998 HiAce is way more refined than our domestic people haulers and is efficient and reliable to boot. This Super Custom model is finished in a Super White over Flaxen Mica Metallic two-tone (2BH). It's accessorized with a set of OEM rainguards, 16" WEDS wheels, a rare one-piece OEM rear mudflap, and stylish oversized amber factory fog lamps. Aside from a dent by the sliding door track and a few other minor scrapes, scratches, and dings the paint is in good shape and this recently serviced rig boasts an incredibly low 54k verified and documented miles. Packed with electric amenities and loads of space, these transporters make for ideal kid haulers, weekend escape vehicles, and daily drivers alike. Smooth, unique, and practical, this Toyota is a certified Japanese Classic. The cabin is in above-average condition and includes several upgrades and options. Unlike many HiAce's we see, this one is equipped with dual front SRS airbags. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and the outward visibility is better than almost anything we sell, thanks to this model's cab forward design. The dash lacks any cracking or fading and houses a beautiful and modern Pioneer audio system. Directly above are the controls for the dual-zone digital climate system. Rear occupants have their own controls and A/C and heat are available on demand. If you prefer natural ventilation just look upward to the roof. A highlight of this van's design is a triple sunroof suite that can be opened for a look at the heavens above. For those who wish to take this thing camping feel free to sleep under the stars as the middle panoramic roof can be completely retracted, which is an experience in itself. The rear assembly is powered too and tilts up for a bit more airflow if required. For those who plan to daily drive, electric windows, door locks, and side mirrors all work in typical Toyota fashion. Even the sliding door has a soft-close feature so that if left ajar, it pulls itself closed to prevent your battery from draining down from an illuminated dome light. The seats can be folded flat into a pseudo mattress from the front of the vehicle to the rear, and the middle row swivels 180 degrees for those looking to face one another and play a game of Uno. The headliner, door cards, and carpets have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse and the factory carpeted floor liners are on hand to protect against future spills and stains. That's not to say the cabin is perfect as we did want to note the power folding mirror function no longer operates. Still, at 25 years old it's remarkable how well this thing has been cared for and it drives even better than it looks. For those who have driven a minivan here in the USA know it's nothing to write home about. Most are nose-heavy V6 pigs, and that's putting it kindly. This HiAce is the polar opposite, with its 2RZ-E engine sitting low in the chassis, between the axles. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.4L churns to life care of a new 12v battery. It idles with convenience and is mated to a slick-shifting automatic gearbox. Power is sent to the rear wheels and this eight-seater has no problems merging safely at highway speeds. It's peppy around town, too, and is fairly maneuverable with its feather-light power steering, short wheelbase, and rear drive architecture. The suspension does a great job of sorting out imperfections in the tarmac and the soft riding van coddles all those within the cabin, even over rough pavement. The brakes feel direct and proficient and the WEDS wheels are all wrapped in new all-season tires. The rubber not only quiets down the ride noticeably but 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.