Loxahatchee, FL | USA
Description
1987 Toyota Soarer z20 • 84,996 km • If you’re looking for the perfect Z20 Soarer. This ain’t it. It’s 37 years old. Paint is not perfect, It leaks oil. I have all the gaskets for it. It has rust on the hood. Light surface rust on the trunk lid bottom. I have the adapters to recharge the ac. As it has not been converted to R134. Not sure if it has a line leak. Speedo doesn’t work because of that if you go too hard on the car. The check engine light comes on and goes away if you just cruise it. ...
Our Take:
- Model Heritage: The 1987 Toyota Soarer, part of the Z20 series, is a gem from Toyota’s “bubble era” when Japanese automakers were flexing their engineering muscles. It’s a quintessential grand tourer that balanced comfort and performance—a direct precursor to the Lexus SC in international markets. For those who appreciate Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles, the Soarer stands as a testament to Toyota's innovative spirit before their luxury-oriented Lexus brand was born.
- Engine and Performance: The Z20 Soarer typically offered a range of engines, from a turbocharged inline-six to a naturally aspirated V8. Each option catered to different driving preferences, and while this model has its quirks—like a leaky gasket or a check engine light—it has also endured the test of time, a testament to Toyota’s solid engineering from the late '80s.
- Cultural Impact: In Japan, the Soarer was more than just a car; it was a tech showcase that included cutting-edge features like digital dashboards and radar cruise control—a big deal back in the day! Though this particular listing doesn't specify every gadget, the mere existence of a factory JDM mini-disc player is like finding a vintage Walkman in pristine condition—delightfully retro.
- Rarity and Restoration Potential: Finding a Z20 Soarer on the market, particularly in the U.S., is somewhat of a rarity. The detailed (albeit honest) condition description screams project car for enthusiasts who love a bit of DIY. Restoring its paint, fixing the mirror wiring, and perhaps updating the suspension could bring this classic cruiser back closer to its former glory—worthy of both admiration and asphalt adventures.
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