Stock #7140
Exterior Overview
Tactile, communicative sports cars normally only have two doors, but the Altezza boasts four! Its zingy engine, rear dive, and a proper six-speed manual are a great combination, and the modern styling is just an added bonus. This 2001 SXE10 is a clean example, and is finished in a classic Dark Blue Mica Metallic (8N8). It is set off by OEM rainguards, an OEM front lip, OEM side skirts, an OEM rear lip, and a set of refinished gunmetal OEM alloys. Aside from some minor dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in fine shape, and this RS200 model is fresh off a comprehensive service. Boasting a meager 77k verified and documented miles on the clock, this terrific Toyota is barely broken in. Reliable, efficient, and a blast to hoon, this Japanese Classic would make for a dependable daily driver, wicked weekend cruiser, or cool canyon carver.
Interior Overview
The cabin is classy, ergonomic, and was cared for overseas. Access is made more seamless with functional keyless entry, and a spare key is also provided with the purchase of the Altezza. Upgrades include a Bluetooth-equipped Pioneer touchscreen headunit and a TRD shift knob. The audio quality is clear, and the modern aesthetic is lovely. It even has an integrated backup camera to save you from a potential fender bender! The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard equipment. The automatic climate control system is simple to operate and blasts cold A/C and piping hot heat so you can enjoy this sedan year-round. The tan cloth seats are supportive and have held up well over the years. The material is fairly durable, too, and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The headliner, door cards, and carpets have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse. Power folding mirrors, power locks, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion. Aside from a small crack in the radio bezel and some steering wheel wear, it’s hard to critique this cabin, as it was clearly cared for in Japan. Even the original owner’s manual is included with the purchase.
Mechanical Overview
This balanced chassis is sublime. The 50/50 weight distribution pays dividends for handling and braking as you might expect. The engine is also a gem, the 3S-GE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.0L springs to life with the twist of the key. A new engine air filter was swapped in, and a new MAF and set of spark plugs were installed, so the BEAMS engine runs smooth as silk. The four-banger is linked to a slick-shifting manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. We have bolstered the driveline by resealing the differential, flushing the fluid, and replacing both rear axle seals. With a nearly 8,000rpm redline, the 3S is a blast to wring out! It gets up to highway speeds with ease and is a comfortable cruiser. New front lower ball joints and new front tension rods were installed to refresh the suspension, and a fresh alignment was performed so this saloon tracks straight as an arrow. It slows down impressively well, with its large disc brakes and ABS. The power steering is easy to manipulate, and new inner tie rods were installed to keep things that way. Lastly, we mounted and balanced four new tires at all corners. The new rubber quells road noise and should provide all the grip needed 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.
