Stock #6644
Exterior Overview
Aimed squarely at the 3 series, the Altezza proved that a zingy rear wheel drive sedan can be affordable, fun to drive, and most importantly, reliable! This 1999 is a stellar example of this SXE10 chassis, and is finished in a menacing Toyota Black (202). Lowered on a set of coils, the angular styling is adorned by an optional NEO V1 front bumper, multicolor fog lamps, OEM optional side skirts, a factory rear lip, OEM rainguards, and a set of 17″ Work VS-SS wheels. Aside from a few scuffs, chips, and dings, the paint is in good shape, and this saloon is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 97k verified and documented miles on the clock, this BEAMS powered five-seater is turn-key and ready to rock. Easy to service and highly collectible, this spicy Japanese Classic will put a smile on your face for not much cash!
Interior Overview
The Altezza has a modern-feeling cabin. The sculpted dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and the passenger benefits from an SRS airbag. To find the ideal driving position, the pilot receives a standard adjustable steering column, and a sporty MOMO wheel is mounted atop it. Other racy add-ons include a Tomei shift knob and an Autometer oil temperature gauge. The center stack is close by and includes a simple-to-use automatic climate control system. A/C and heat are functional, making this a sweet year-round ride. Below we installed an American BOSS head unit that includes Bluetooth hands-free tech. The glovebox is sizable and includes the owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets for those who care about the details. Power folding mirrors, power locks, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use more enjoyable. The cloth seats are in above-average shape and lack any major rips, stains or tears. The rear seats are in equally good nick and include a ski pass through. The door cards and headliner are in good shape, as are the carpets. It even includes the OEM boot mat, which is a rare find and highly desirable!
Mechanical Overview
The 3S-GE BEAMS engine is legendary. Designed by Yamaha, this high-revving mill is responsive yet frugal on fuel, if you keep your foot off the pedal. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.0L churns to life promptly, care of a new 12V battery. It sounds throaty, too, thanks to a rare and expensive Veilside axleback exhaust and HKS header combo. To maintain proper thermal efficiency, we performed a coolant flush, which won’t be due for another four years. The 3S runs right as rain and is linked to a communicative manual gearbox. The six speeds lacks any grinding or hitches and send power to the rear wheels. An IS300 differential was installed in our shop to reduce the driveline chatter from the old differential, and this sedan accelerates nicely, especially when you are in the upper limits of the power band. It also slows down promptly thanks to a set of new rear brake pads, and ABS is standard on this model. The handling is sublime and one of our trained techs has refurbished the platform significantly. New adjustable coilovers, new front lower ball joints, new front caster arms, and new lower control arms were all replaced before this five-seater passed its VA state safety inspection. Lastly, we address the power steering by installing a new pump and by performing a system flush. Freshly aligned, this ‘Tezza drives straight as an arrow and grip comes from four new Falken tires mounted and balanced at each corner. Rewarding to drive and with room for the whole family, this is an all-around performer that just makes sense!
*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.
