Stock #6594
Exterior Overview
Every so often, a new vehicle stumbles into our inventory that completely shifts our expectations for its genre. Such is the case with the second generation Toyota Aristo, which seems to get about everything right, in frugal and reliable Toyota fashion. A luxury sedan with performance attributes, it’s easy to fall in love with the model, and this 1999 S300, in particular, boasts an eye-catching 26k verified and documented miles, which are far and above better than any used Lexus found stateside. Finished in a crisp White Pearl (051) the cosmetics are in above average shape overall, and this Vertex Edition is set off by OEM Xenon headlamps and factory rainguards. A few minor blemishes are present around the exterior but overall this Aristo shows well for its age and mileage. Ideal as a cool and collectable daily, or a road trip rockstar, the JZS160 Aristo is a Japanese Classic for the ages.
Interior Overview
The two-tone black cloth interior is desirable amongst enthusiasts, and overall resists wear and tear much better than tired leather examples you may find in the states. Ours also boasts optional lace seat covers, which give the already premium cabin an increased air of luxury. Both driver and passenger benefit from power adjustable seating, and safety is prioritized thanks to dual front and side SRS airbags. It’s also comfortable behind the wheel, with a tilt and telescoping steering column adjusting at the flick of a switch. The dash is trimmed in a soft touch black vinyl, housing useful provisions, like dual zone automatic climate control, and premium JBL audio that sounds great for its age. Freshly filtered cold A/C and hot heat can be called upon when needed, and if you need to supply the cabin with fresh air a suite of automatic power windows can be unfurled. Power locks, factory keyless entry, and power folding side mirrors work as advertised, in true Toyota fashion, and we applaud the brand for not overengineering the switchgear. The rear bench is spacious, as is the trunk, which houses a factory spare and tool kit if you get caught in a bind. The carpets are protected by a plush set of OEM floor mats, and to protect your investment, the owner’s manual and maintenance booklet are included with the purchase!
Mechanical Overview
Under the bonnet, US enthusiasts will be pleased to see the 2JZ-GE is the same, easily serviceable powerplant offered in stateside Toyota and Lexus offerings. A reliable, fuel-efficient mill, this one is fresh off a recent tune up in-house and primed and ready for the road ahead. The motor fires up swiftly with the twist of a key, thanks to a new 12v battery, which was also installed to properly test the alternator. A fresh oil and filter service keeps this one well lubricated until its next maintenance cycle, and she runs and drives butter smooth after we replaced the engine air filter. Compared to its bigger, twin turbocharged brother, the GE has plenty of get up and go around town, and acceleration on the highway is substantial as well. The automatic box shifts smoothly up and down the gears without hesitation, as power is hammered down to the rear wheels. The suspension is plenty soft and compliant, gobbling up road imperfections large and small without making a peep, and the ABS brakes offer the stopping power to come to an immediate halt if needed. The power steering is light and direct, as you’d expect from a luxury sedan, and we replaced the front caster arms and aligned this Aristo to boot to ensure you’ll track straight for the road ahead. Grip is handled by four new Falken tires, which not only look great, but are knee deep in tread and ready to tackle the pavement 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.
