Stock #6815
Exterior Overview
As the saying goes, put your money where your mouth is! When the employees of Japanese Classics start purchasing a chassis, you know it’s a good one! This 1998 Altezza has been owned and driven daily by one of our store managers for the past year. Boasting only 114k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this manual, rear-drive sports saloon is barely broken in. It has proven to be a reliable and fun sedan to motor, and this Millennium Silver (1C0) RS200 is fresh off a recent service, which includes a new timing belt and water pump. We wanted to note that the trunk was replaced in Japan, and aside from a few light dings, scratches, and scuffs, the paint is in good shape. Lowered on classic BBS alloys, an FRP front lip, OEM tail light covers, and some subtle rainguards, the timeless styling looks as good as ever. This safe sports sedan also boasts a few upgrades within the cabin and a few performance modifications that make spirited driving a blast. Stylish, balanced, and easy to service, this Japanese Classic is a proven chassis that is ready to be daily driven or put to use as a track weapon or dedicated canyon carver!
Interior Overview
The cabin is in above-average condition and includes a few factory options, upgraded audio, and performance add-ons. Cabin access is made more seamless for all, thanks to functional keyless entry, and the driver can find the ideal seating position thanks to an adjustable steering column. A Recaro driver’s seat keeps the pilot from sloshing about in the twisties, and a TRD knob feels ideal in the palm of your left hand. The steering wheel is in near mint condition, and the center stack is close by and within arm’s reach. So that the new owner can save some coin, we upgraded the audio system with a touchscreen Pioneer radio. This modern unit sounds great and includes Bluetooth integration so that you can keep your hands safely on the wheel. For those who do value safety, we should also note that dual SRS airbags are standard. The automatic climate system is simple to use, and the heat is primed and ready for the summer ahead. We couldn’t locate a used A/C compressor quickly, so we are selling this one with non-functional air conditioning. If you plan to daily drive this SXE10, it includes functional power locks, power folding mirrors, and power windows. All work in typical Toyota fashion, and an optional rear seat pass-through makes for better storage accommodations. The headliner, door cards, and carpets are in fine shape and have resisted major wear and tear over the past 27 years. A front-facing dashcam, OEM owners manuals, carpeted OEM floor mats, and the rare factory sales literature pictured are all included with the purchase of this Toyota for those who care about the fine details!
Mechanical Overview
This chassis is divine, and features 50/50 weight distribution for knife-edge handling. The engine is also an absolute gem, with its 8,200rpm redline and immediate throttle response. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.0L churns to life with the twist of the key. To ensure the oil level stays topped up, a new valve cover gasket was installed, and we replaced the spark plugs while doing the job. The OEM intake was replaced with a SARD unit, and it makes the 2.0L sound even more alive. The exhaust note is also more audible, courtesy of a custom catback. Best of all, we just performed the most expensive maintenance item on the BEAMS engine. A new timing belt and water pump were installed, and a coolant flush was performed. Good for another ten years and 100k kilometers, the new owner can rest assured knowing they can tackle an immediate road trip. Power is fed to the rear wheels through a slick six-speed manual gearbox. We installed a short-throw shifter, and gear changes are as precise as a Swiss timepiece. It gets up to highway speeds with ease and is more than peppy from stoplight to stoplight. It also slows down impressively well thanks to its light curb weight, and ABS is standard equipment. New adjustable coilovers were recently installed, and for state inspection purposes, we replaced the front ball joints, right rear axle, and front left lower control arm. Freshly aligned the RS200 track straight as an arrow, and the power steering is direct and provides plenty of feedback, and was just flushed. The suspension is firm, but it can handle the rigors of daily use and abuse without breaking a sweat. Lastly, we installed two new rear tires before it left the shop. Aside from a pilot bearing that is a bit noisy from time to time, the mechanicals are as solid as they come. Ready to be daily driven with its sterling track record so far in the US, this Altezza is a safe bet!
*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.
