A fan favorite Cruiser, these 90 series Prados make for excellent daily drivers, and the bulletproof drivetrain allows them to go nearly anywhere.

Exterior Overview
For those who are fans of the legendary Hilux Surf, yet desire more interior space and ground clearance, pay close attention. This 1997 Land Cruiser Prado shares a platform with the Surf, making parts and serviceability a snap. It’s also backed by a durable intercooled turbodiesel engine, that’s fresh off a recent service, and has stout full-time 4WD underpinnings. Finished in Emerald Green (K12), the exterior stands out from drab day to day commuters, and this handsome rig is set off by an OEM optional front brushguard, dual driving lamps, OEM rainguards, and refinished 16″ multipiece alloys. Save for a few paint swirls, dings, and loss of lustre, the cosmetics are in good shape overall, and this trusty Toyota shows just 135k verified miles from new. A fan favorite Cruiser, these 90 series Prados make for excellent daily drivers, and the bulletproof drivetrain allows them to go nearly anywhere. Understated, underrated, but far from underpowered, there’s a reason why enthusiasts flock to these Japanese Classics.

Interior Overview
Comfortable, well equipped, and in great shape for its age, the 90 series’ interior is a consistent hit amongst all who own or drive one here. The patterned grey cloth holds up exceptionally to daily use and abuse and ours shows only a few spots of bolster wear to note. The dash tucks up nicely into the front of the cabin and houses standard dual SRS airbags too for some added safety behind the wheel. All things considered, there’s not much to turn your nose up at aside from some punctures on the door cards. Well equipped for frequent use, the center stack houses automatic climate control and OEM audio. For the warmer months ahead, the A/C blows ice cold and rear heat is available for year-round pleasure. Power windows, locks, and side mirrors work as advertised, and aid daily use tremendously. The middle bench tumbles forward if a larger cargo hold is required, and the rear has mounting points for an optional third row if you decide to add extra seating capacity in the future. The headliner and carpet show a few stains from daily use, but they’re no worse for the wear overall. All in all, the cabin is primed and ready for years of use, and we think most drivers and passengers will be satisfied with its condition.

1997 Land Cruiser Prado J95
Mechanical Overview
The intercooled 1KZ-TE under the hood is a winner on multiple fronts. It’s frugal to operate and service, delightfully torquey, and the full time 4WD drivetrain can stand up to loads of use and abuse. Ours is fresh off a recent service which spans most of the mechanical systems of the vehicle and cranks over with haste thanks to a brand new 12v battery. Of course, an oil and filter service was performed, and we screwed on a new fuel filter to keep your diesel clean and contaminant free. The valve cover gasket was replaced alongside a new half moon seal and the 3.0 pulls healthily up to highway speeds. The drivetrain was tended to with a fresh fluid exchange in the transmission, and we performed a full coolant flush for good measure. We did some drivetrain rehab to boot, the rear upper control arms are brand new, as are the front swaybar links and bushings. Rear shocks were installed to keep the ride comfortable and compliant, and the suspension soaks up road defects with ease. The power assisted steering is light and on point, and we bolstered the ABS brakes with new front brake pads and rotors. We sealed the deal with fresh 32″ All-Terrain Falkens and a four wheel alignment on this outstanding truck, and you’ll be covered and driving straight 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.

Inquire today on Fourbie Exchange, or see the original listing on the dealer’s website at japaneseclassics.com.