Stock #6447
Exterior Overview
While the Surf is handsome, its beauty extends beneath the skin. You see, this 1998 is one tough cookie, with its robust body on frame platform and traction-grabbing 4WD. Fresh off a recent service, this rig is powered by one of Toyota’s best-engineered turbodiesel engines, an intercooled version of the legendary 1KZ-TE! Having logged only 141k verified and documented miles, this Natural White over Bluish Silver Metallic (K82) Surf is set off by freshly powder coated OEM 16″ alloys, an aggressive OEM rear spoiler, sport hood, privacy tint, and some OEM rainguards. Aside from a few light chips, dings, and scuffs the paint is in fine shape and this classically styled SUV will get plenty of looks at the local Cars and Coffee. Trail-rated for the toughest terrain, yet civil enough to take your offspring to soccer practice, this practical 4×4 Japanese Classic does just about everything well.
Interior Overview
Inside, this Surf features a few updates from earlier models, and a few neat optional upgrades. For instance, a 100w wall plug was spec’d and is located next to the steering column if you wish to use an adapter to run any accessories. Unlike older models, this example includes a digital automatic climate control system. The display looks more modern and is intuitive to use. Cold A/C and piping hot heat can be funneled through the cabin and if you prefer natural ventilation, this Surf has you covered. For a light breeze, crack the electric windows and roll down the rear hatch window. Do you desire even more airflow? A large panoramic sunroof tilts and retracts for a view of the skies above. New USDM Boss audio was installed The driver can get comfy thanks to a tilt adjustable steering column and these optional seats include a driver lumbar upgrade. The gray cloth is durable and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear occupants can 4-way recline for optimal comfort and when additional cargo room is required, the rear seats split fold and tumble flat into the floor. For those who plan to daily drive, power locks make cabin entry painless. One of our favorite options is the rear under mirror. With the press of a button on the dash, a large convex mirror drops down from the wing, so that the driver can see the rear bumper when reversing into a parking spot. The headliner and carpets are in good nick and the door cards have been cared for but do have some light delamination. Also, we wanted to note a nonfunctional power-folding passenger mirror and some steering wheel wear. Other than that it’s awfully hard to nitpick the cabin and this Surf’s interior is in much better shape than your average American 4Runner.
Mechanical Overview
Under the skin this is a true truck, not some unibody soft-roader. The engine is just as durable as the frame, and the 2992cc mill is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new fuel filter is always installed in any diesel powered vehicle we retail, and we also installed two new 12v batteries, which should last for a few more years to come. The 1K chugs to life promptly and idles confidently. The 3.0L was refreshed with a new valve cover gasket and half-moon seals to keep the oil level on full. It pulls hard to redline and produces gobs of low end grunt. Mated to a stout automatic gearbox, this Hilux accelerates impressively and sustained highway cruising is efficient and comfortable. The gearbox shifts properly and the driver can choose between 2WD and 4WD depending on their preference. For beach use or a weekend out in the mountains, rest assured that the 4WD transfercase includes a low range and optional center locker to keep your momentum moving forward. The ride is better than most Surfs, as one of our trained techs has done a proper refresh of the suspension. New front shocks sort out small and large potholes alike, and new rear upper and lower control arms were installed to reduce suspension play. New right front inner and outer tie rods were installed so that we could properly align the platform and the power-assisted steering is light yet on point. This SSR-G tracks straight as an arrow and stops quickly thanks to standard ABS brakes. Grip is handled by four new 31″ Falken all terrain tires. Mounted and balanced here at our shop, the rubber quells road noise a tad and most importantly 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.
