These outstanding rigs share a platform with Toyota’s 3rd generation 4Runner, all the way down to the 3.4l V6 that resides under the hood.

Exterior Overview
The 90 Series Land Cruiser is one of the most desirable Toyota’s to those in the know. These outstanding rigs share a platform with Toyota’s 3rd generation 4Runner, all the way down to the 3.4l V6 that resides under the hood. Our Japanese Market 1997 Prado has way more going for it, though, and features an abundance of interior space, full-time 4WD underpinnings, and eye-catching Emerald Green/Silver (K12) paintwork. Set off by OEM rainguards, chrome mirror caps, and a functional spare tire carrier, the cosmetics are above average overall. Best of all, this super SUV boasts a scant 125k verified and documented miles, which are impressive compared to most Toyota trucks on the market here in the US. Save for a few chips and dings, this truck is easy on the eyes, and is one of the most capable platforms we sell here at the dealership. A timeless model with a whole lot of staying power, it goes without saying this is a real deal Japanese Classic.

Interior Overview
The interior excels in many facets. It’s great for a daily driver, as power equipment and creature comforts are abundant. It’s comfortable on longer hauls, and has versatile third row seating and ample head and legroom. It also caters to the driver, with useful options like a factory armrest extension, and a tilt adjustable steering column. The driver can see far above traffic thanks to a low-profile dashboard, and cabin comfort is dialed courtesy of optional rear heat and A/C. The dash houses dual SRS airbags to keep passengers safe and secure, and OEM audio. Assisting daily use, all four power windows work like a charm, as do power locks and electric folding side mirrors. Seating arrangements are versatile. The middle bench can recline, or flip fully forward, and the third row jump seats can rapidly retract against the D-Pillars if cargo space needs to be maximized. The carpets are tidy, as is the headliner, which frames an expansive power moonroof that works at the push of a button. The seats are upholstered in a tasteful patterned cloth, and the material is mirrored in the door cards. The headliner and carpets are trimmed in a complementary gray, and save for some delamination to the factory radio screen, headliner stains, and a bit of steering wheel wear beneath the cover, it goes without saying this cabin should please most any pilot or passenger. We even held on to the original owner’s manual, maintenance booklet, and a bunch of spare keys to keep you on the road no matter what!

Mechanical Overview
Under the skin is where this Prado really shines. The 3.4l V6 is one of Toyota’s best designs, and parts are abundant, as it was offered here in our domestic market. This 5VZ-FE is fresh off an oil and filter service here at the shop, where we performed some additional maintenance to get it ripe and ready for the road ahead. A new 12v battery was tossed in to aid ignition, and we replaced the tired old engine air filter and fuel filter with brand new units. New valve cover gaskets were installed alongside new cam plugs, and this V6 has no notable oil seeps apart from a minor one around the oil pump seal. We also chucked in a set of six new spark plugs, and installed a new muffler to keep the 3.4 purring like a kitten. This Prado soars to highway speeds with ease, and an automatic transmission makes quick work of putting that power to all four wheels. For real-deal offroad types, a center locker and low range are on hand, and we replaced the transfercase output seal to keep things in tip-top shape. The suspension insulates the cabin nicely and gobbles up road imperfections with ease, and the steering is nicely weighted and easy to maneuver. The ABS brakes benefit from new pads up front, and we wrapped the OEM alloys in fresh rubber. Stylish and clean, this truck makes a statement, and with the fresh rubber you’ll be set for tens of thousands of miles of unencumbered cruising!

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