Stock #7213
Exterior Overview
With coveted Lunar Rock (6X3) paint, a zingy 5 speed manual gearbox, and a torque-filled turbodiesel, this Hilux Surf is a Toyota enthusiast’s dream come true. Built on a bulletproof, legendary 3rd generation chassis, this body on frame SUV is equal parts comfortable, capable, and stylish. The paintwork is new, and really sets this Surf off, with only a few blemishes, nicks, and normal wear and tear. This 1998 SSR-X is also fresh off a recent service, turn-key, and ready to take on a cross country road trip. Boasting only 105k miles, it’s barely broken in, and has traveled a fraction of what similar stateside examples rack up. AI is a powerful tool, and it’s hard to imagine a Surf this nice exists, but with one trip behind the wheel, you’ll realize this Japanese Classic is as real as it gets!
Interior Overview
The interior is simple, subtle, and spartan. It’s fashioned in a durable tan cloth and is hard to criticize, and the seats are comfy on longer hauls. It’s a driver-centric design, with simple switchgear within arm’s reach. Still, the power necessities are included, and power windows, locks, and mirrors work in true Toyota fashion. The center stack frames a brand new USDM BOSS audio head unit, and an adjacent automatic climate control unit that pushes out cold A/C and hot heat on command. A new A/C compressor was installed so future summers are manageable. The shifter puts the driver in a comfortable position, and you can dial in additional comfort with a tilt-adjustable steering column and driver-adjustable lumbar support. There need not be any safety concerns, as this Surf features dual SRS airbags, and additional side impact protection in the doors. The materials are in good condition throughout, and the tan upholstery lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The same can be said for the condition of the dash cover, door cards, carpet, and headliner. All in all, the cabin condition really impresses, and we’ve retained a sleek set of factory floor mats and a spare key to help protect your investment!
Mechanical Overview
Sure, the body-on-frame chassis can withstand its fair share of abuse, but the real value in this Surf is in its mechanicals. Some could say it’s what’s on the inside that counts, and our trained technicians have given this turbodiesel a thorough once-over to be turn-key ready. It turns over with haste, care of two new 12v batteries, and settles into a smooth idle. We installed a new fuel filter to keep contaminants out of the diesel, and we installed new accessory belts and an engine air filter so the four-banger runs seamlessly. We also shored up a pesky oil leak from the valve cover gasket, installing a new one in its place. The 3.0TD is linked to a manual gearbox that allows you to gain full control over the diesel’s broad torque curve and powerband. The driver can select between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and a center-locking differential and low range can be utilized for your off-road escapades. To bolster the drivetrain, we also performed a front differential drain and fill. New front lower control arms were installed to refresh the suspension, too. It drives like a dream and tracks straight as an arrow thanks to a fresh alignment and new inner and outer tie rods. The refinished factory wheels have been wrapped in new 31″ all terrain Falken rubber. The tires look mean as all getout, and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. A special Surf, we think discerning Toyota enthusiasts will go nuts over this one-of-a-kind 4×4!
*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.
