1998 Hilux Surf SSR-X 2.7

Stock #7011

For those who prioritize a seamless servicing experience over Japanese-market flair, this 3rd generation Hilux Surf hits the mark.

Exterior Overview

At Japanese Classics, we sell cars for everybody. For those who prioritize a seamless servicing experience over Japanese-market flair, this 3rd generation Hilux Surf hits the mark. Sharing a platform with our stateside 4Runners, and finished in a one-off Bantam Black, this SSR-X is set off by refinished factory side steps, OEM rainguards, chrome bumpers, and some subtle privacy tint. Aside from a few scrapes, dings, and chips the body is in good shape and this SSR-X is fresh off a recent service here at our facility. With a mere 120k verified/documented miles on the clock this truck is positioned nicely in the market, and eclipses most USDM examples in overall condition. Perfect as a year-round daily driver, cool weekend cruiser, or fun family car, this terrific Toyota would be up to the task. Reliable, safe, and practical, this Surf is one of our best selling models for good reason!

Interior Overview

The cabin is clean, spacious, and nicely appointed. The black and blue tiger stripe upholstery steals the show and sets this cockpit far apart from its drab USDM counterparts. The seating surfaces are in good shape and can coddle up to 5 occupants. The upholstery lacks any major rips, stains, or tears, and the driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering wheel and adjustable lumbar support. A USDM Sony headunit features Carplay functionality and is mounted next to a fully functional automatic climate system. Heat and A/C can be funneled in on demand, and if you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear glass can roll up and down for a more open air experience. The power locks and mirrors also work, making daily use more enjoyable. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and both front occupants can rest assured knowing dual SRS airbags are standard equipment. The black cloth inserts in the door cards match the upholstery accents, and the headliner and carpets have escaped the past 25 years without sustaining major damage. Even the owner’s manuals, maintenance booklets, and original Toyota Rescue Man recovery tool

Mechanical Overview

Under the hood is a familiar face to stateside Toyota enthusiasts. The driveline on this Surf, including the 2.7L 3RZ-FE, is shared with our USDM 4Runner and Tacoma models. This frugal four-banger is fresh off a comprehensive service and churns to life with the twist of the key. We dropped in a new engine air filter, and a new mass air flow sensor helps to correctly meter the air entering the plenum. We also installed a new valve cover gasket to keep fluid from the oil service internal. After four new spark plugs were chucked in, this Surf was ready to tackle its first road test, and the 3RZ has enough power to putt around town or get up to highway speeds. Power is fed through an automatic gearbox to the rear wheels, with 4WD available at the push of a button. Rarely spec’d on a 2.7 Surf, the center locking differential fixes torque 50/50 front and rear, allowing this rig to make quick work of loose sand, snow, or mud. Low range can be utilized as well when traversing the worst road conditions. The suspension benefits from new front swaybar links, installed before passing state safety inspection here. We installed a new power steering pump and new steering rack bushings to help the truck maneuver about, and standard ABS brakes help slow this steed down to a screeching halt. The factory alloys are freshly refinished and clad in all new Falken all-terrain rubber. Handsome functional, and fresh off a four wheel alignment, you’ll be covered 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.