Miami, FL | USA
Description
For sale is a 1997 Toyota Century with 113,000 mi (183,000 km) that is titled and registered for road use in the US. It has Japan’s only mass-produced V12 engine, is right hand drive (RHD), and has a desirable spec: navy blue exterior with gray leather interior, fender mirrors, rear curtains, parking pole, ETC reader, VHS player, window rain guards, and the dual EMV package. Also has a non-OEM DVD player and ceiling mounted LCD screen. Overall in very nice condition for its age but does have ...
Our Take:
- Rarity and Exclusiveness: The Toyota Century is a gem from the Land of the Rising Sun, often dubbed the "Japanese Rolls-Royce" due to its reputation for luxury and exclusivity. In 1997, only a few left Japan's shores, making this right-hand-drive model especially rare in the U.S. market. It marks Toyota's commitment to crafting a flagship vehicle that catered to Japan’s elite, including corporate executives and even the Imperial Household. Talk about pedigree!
- Unique Powertrain: This Century is powered by Japan's sole mass-produced V12 engine, the 5.0L 1GZ-FE, which is a testament to Toyota's engineering prowess during the '90s. Unlike the more common V6 or V8 engines, this V12 offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, fitting for a car focusing on comfort and refinement. Enthusiasts will appreciate both its mechanical complexity and its rarity.
- Cultural and Aesthetic Appeal: Sporting features like fender mirrors, rear curtains, and a parking pole, the car offers a genuine taste of Japanese automotive culture that you’d be hard-pressed to find in more mainstream models. The inclusion of vintage tech like a VHS player (alongside the non-OEM DVD player) offers a nostalgic nod to the transitional tech era of the late '90s. Collecting cars is as much about the stories they tell as the metal they're made of—and this one speaks volumes.
- Preservation and Maintenance: At 113,000 miles, this Century's mileage is reasonable for its age, and it's reassuring to see extensive maintenance documented—like fresh spark plugs and a new battery. While the wear and tear like leather creases and faded paint are expected in a car this age, the properly functioning air suspension is a highlight; many older air suspension systems tend to sag over time, but this one holds its elegance, literally. It's a testament to the seller's care and a strong point for prospective buyers.
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