Perfect as a pavement pounding daily driver, cool campsite crawler, or frugal family mobile, this Japanese Classic is the perfect fit. Safe, spacious, and sized just right, this terrific Toyota does it all!

Exterior Overview
For those who value reliability, capability, and ease of service, this 1997 Hilux Surf is the ticket. It has the aesthetic that everyone wants, with a suspension lift and Toyota Black (204) paint. Set off by a set of 16×9 alloys, aggressive privacy tint, LED tail lamps and a subtle factory rear spoiler, this Surf looks sportier than most. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scrapes, the paint is in good shape and this 4×4 is fresh off a recent service. Offered with only 150k verified and documented miles on the clock, this baby is barely broken in. Utilizing the same gasoline engine as sold here in the US, this truck can be serviced on the cheap and modified without breaking the bank. Perfect as a pavement pounding daily driver, cool campsite crawler, or frugal family mobile, this Japanese Classic is the perfect fit. Safe, spacious, and sized just right, this terrific Toyota does it all!

Interior Overview
The cabin is in good shape overall and was clearly cared for by its old owner. Upgrades include leather door cards and armrests, which add an upscale look. We also wanted to note a USDM BOSS audio upgrade, which supplies tunes to supplement your road trip. It includes Bluetooth functionality so you can keep your eyes safely on the road. The driver can find the ideal seating position thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column and optional adjustable lumbar support. Daily use is made more manageable thanks to power windows, power mirrors, electric locks, and power rear glass, which all work well in typical Toyota fashion. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and houses dual SRS airbags. It lacks any cracking or distortion, and the center stack is close by, easy to reach. The automatic climate control system is simple to operate and blows ice-cold A/C and piping hot heat for enjoyable year-round use. The upholstery has fared well over the years and lacks any major rips, stans, or tears. The rear occupants benefit from 4-way reclining seat backs, and they also tumble forward and fold flat to create a larger cargo space. The headliner and door cards are in good shape, and aside from a non-functioning power folder on the passenger mirror, it’s hard to critique the cabin. Even the owners manuals, maintenance booklets, and the OEM rubberized cargo mat are included with the purchase of this rig!

Mechanical Overview
Under the skin, this body-on-frame bad boy is rough and tumble as it gets. The ladder chassis can withstand loads of abuse, and the same can be said for the 3RZ-FE powerplant. Fresh off an oil and filter service, this 2.7L churns to life with the twist of a key. You can also use the remote start on chilly mornings! A new engine air filter works to maximize power output, and brand new accessory belts keep the electronics properly powered. To keep the four-banger full of lubricant, we replaced the oil pan seal with a new one. The 3RZ is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that makes good use of the powerband. The pilot can utilize the selectable transfercase to send power to the rear wheels or all four, depending on their preference. 4WD can be engaged on the fly, and a low range is on hand for beach outings and snowstorms. This five-seater also slows down with confidence, thanks to its standard ABS braking system. The suspension was heavily refreshed by one of our trained technicians. New front shocks, rear upper control arms and lower control arm bushings were installed. The steering rack was fully rebuilt with new seals and rack boots added, and new inner and outer tie rods were used to dial in a proper alignment. Lastly, we mounted and balanced four brand-new 33″ Falken tires. The new rubber not only looks mean, but quells road noise, and will last for ends 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 here.