Stock #6595
Exterior Overview
This Diesel, Manual 100 series is a cool rig on paper but in person it’s even cooler! It goes without saying this 1998 is the ultimate Japanese SUV. It’s built on one of Toyota’s most bulletproof platforms, touts a reliable and responsive 24v inline six turbodiesel, and the 5 speed stick pleases even the most discerning off-road enthusiast. It also looks snazzy, with fresh Blueprint paintwork, a new 2″ lift, and a factory spare tire swingarm. Rolling on a set of brand new Method racing alloys, it looks the part off-tarmac too. OEM rainguards and a factory optional spoiler round off the aesthetic, and this 203k mile rig hardly looks a day over 25, save for some small paint defects. Trucks like this don’t come around too often, and this Japanese Classic is capable, collectible, and cool. Get it while you can!
Interior Overview
For being over two decades old, the interior has held up marvelously and is in truly great shape compared to our American cruisers, which typically fall victim to premature wear and tear. This 100 series cockpit is fashioned in a durable grey cloth, and the upholstery is in good shape for its age, showing no discernible rips or tears. The dash is trimmed in a complementary grey vinyl and is soft to the touch, housing dual SRS airbags and a full slate of power amenities necessary for daily driving in the 21st century. The center stack is easy to navigate, as is the automatic climate control, which features cold A/C, hot heat, and the ability for rear passengers to adjust their own heat accordingly. Adjacent to the HVAC, Pioneer audio is easy to operate and sounds good for its age. Power windows, locks, and electric folding side mirrors are standard, and in lieu of a moonroof the original purchaser of this truck opted for a few additional overhead storage cubbies instead. The truck is spacious and features barn-door access, and the middle row can be flipped forward or folded flat depending on how you choose to stow your cargo. Of course, no 25 year old cabin is perfect. There are a few carpet stains beneath the included Imperial floor mats, and a divot in the center armrest, but overall this stick shift command center should satisfy most every Toyota nut.
Mechanical Overview
The drivetrain on this HDJ101 is pure gold, as is the 1HD-FTE under the bonnet. A revised, intercooled 24 valve version of a powerhouse turbodiesel I6, these engines are delightful to own, easy to maintain, and ours is fresh off a recent service so you need not worry about getting this rig in turn key shape. It churns to life care of 2 new 12v batteries we installed, and a new engine air filter and fuel filter keep pesky contaminants at bay. An oil and filter service was also performed to keep this 4.2l topped up on lubricant. With the maintenance performed, this six pot chugs up to highway speeds with ease and the 1HD is terrifically torquey. The straight-shift gearbox is easy to take through the tree and does well at highway speeds to boot. The clutch is also easy to engage after a fresh fluid exchange. The brand new Ironman suspension makes quick work of any road imperfections and benefits from new rear upper control arms and new swaybar link bushings all the way around. The power steering is tight and on point, thanks to new rack bushings, and a fresh alignment was performed on our lift. Fresh Falken all-terrains adorn the new Method wheels, and are brand spanking new. Not only does it look good, the Rubitreks quell road noise, improve traction, and should last for years 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.
