Stock #7168
Exterior Overview
Every Toyota enthusiast knows that the Land Cruiser is the world’s most renowned 4×4 SUV, but real long-term owners and dedicated die-hards laud the 100 series over all others. Sure, they are a bit more plush, round, and refined than the rugged and boxy Cruisers of yore, but the drivetrain is nearly indestructible, the styling has aged well. They were massively overbuilt from the factory, making them feel right at home for daily driving, even well into the 21st century. Our 1999 VX Limited is a fine example of the chassis and is set off by a few rare factory options and equipment that makes any US market example look drab in comparison. The Pearl White (057) paintwork is in good shape, and is set off by a sleek factory graphics package. An OEM bug deflector adds a bit of panache up front, and the rear end is accented by a factory spoiler, swing-out tire carrier, and a factory hardshell tire cover. Optional gold badging, chrome tail light garnishes, and a chrome license plate surround are the finishing touches, and a set of new 17″ ICON wheels are the perfect complement to this classic Cruiser. Best of all, the 84k miles on the clock are verified and documented, and this bulletproof chassis is barely broken in. With new Land Cruisers assuming a more compact and efficient segment in the market, sometimes it takes a proper J100 to remind us what a real 4×4 should feel like. With that being said, it makes sense that we’d call this one a Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The interior is plush, comfortable, and has everything but the kitchen sink. Premium upholstery, a slew of power options, and most importantly, a stowable third row to keep your kids and companions happy on a long road trip. The tan cloth seats are soft to the touch and show no discernible damage, and the driver can toggle on some additional lumbar support at will. The steering column is tilt-adjustable, and for safety-conscious passengers, dual SRS airbags are present. The center stack is intuitively designed, and frames a more modern Panasonic touchscreen headunit. Adjacent to the audio, factory automatic climate control can command temperatures in both front and rear zones, and cold A/C and hot heat are on tap. For a more open-air driving experience, a power moonroof can slide open to let in natural sunlight. The remaining interior materials are in good nick, including the rear bench, which can flip forward to expand the cargo hold. The headliner is tight and tidy, and the door cards sport cloth inserts that match the factory upholstery. Power windows, locks, and power folding side mirrors work like a charm, and as a whole, it’s evident this Land Cruiser was pampered in a prior life.
Mechanical Overview
This sturdy, body-on-frame truck is powered by Toyota’s durable 2UZ-FE. Sold here in the States, this punchy and reliable V8 is fresh off an oil and filter service and starts up promptly, care of a new 12v battery installed here in our shop. It stays charged, thanks to a new alternator we took care of as well. To keep the 4.7L on the up and up, we flushed out the old coolant with new juice, and also dropped in a new engine air filter. For an eight cylinder powerplant, you hardly notice the 2UZ from inside the cabin as it transmits nary a noise or vibration. It produces sufficient power, and feeds it through a stout automatic gearbox. The full-time 4WD is simple to slot into low range if needed and the center differential can be locked, too. The ride quality from the adjustable height control suspension is fantastic and the Land Cruiser is truly prolific on pavement, with new rear upper and lower control arms giving the suspension a new lease on life. For off-road excursions, there is decent ground clearance and the long wheelbase feels comfortable and planted even at higher speeds. We also took care of some labor-intensive preventative maintenance by rebuilding the steering rack with new seals, bushings, and inner and outer tie rods. This is a must-do service on the 100 series platform and improves drivability tenfold. The ABS brakes are responsive and help slow this brute down to a screeching halt. The stylish ICON alloys are wrapped in fresh Falken rubber, which looks killer on this rig. Lastly, we performed a fresh four-wheel alignment. She tracks straight as an arrow and is ready to conquer stateside terrain!
*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.
