Exterior Overview

The Land Cruiser marque is used for a few different platforms, but the most distinctive may be the three-door Prado. Where larger platforms may feel unwieldy, this maneuverable 1997 still boasts a beefy body-on-frame design, Full-Time 4WD, and a plush cabin filled with electric amenities. The exterior styling features short overhangs for aggressive approach and departure angles, and the Dark Green Mica Metallic over Gray paint is in good nick, aside from some light chips, scuffs, and dings. Additionally, this RX model is set off by OEM rinaguards and refinished 16″ alloys. Fresh off a recent service, and having logged only 126k verified and documented miles, this terrific Toyota is powered by a legendary 3.0L turbodiesel that produces gobs of torque yet sips fuel. Ideal as a capable year-round daily driver, this J90 would also make for a fun beach cruiser or wicked weekend warrior. These SUVs are certified Japanese Classics that are practical, affordable, and unique!

Interior Overview

This cabin is in good shape and offers abundant head and shoulder room for all. It also has a few upgrades, such as a snazzy Kenwood headunit that looks classy and sounds decent. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column to find the ideal driving position. Daily use is aided by functional power folding mirrors, power locks, and power windows. If you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear quarter glass pops outward to supplement airflow. The A/C and heat work as they should, and the automatic climate control is intuitive to operate. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and houses dual SRS airbags as standard equipment. The steering wheel is almost mint, and the headliner and door cards have avoided any major abuse over the last quarter century. The blue and gray cloth upholstery is in fine shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The carpet is in a similar condition, too. Aside from a broken center console cupholder cover and the electric passenger mirror not adjusting left or right, it’s hard to complain about the cabin overall. Even a spare key is included with the purchase!

Mechanical Overview

Body-on-frame and tough as nails, the 3.0L diesel under the hood has a reputation for efficiency and durability, which is surpassed by few. This intercooled 1KZ-TE is fresh off an oil and filter service, and churns to life quickly courtesy of a new 12V battery. To keep it running right as rain, we replaced the intake air filter and fuel filter. The old accessory belts were starting to crack, so new ones were tossed in while it was on the lift. One of our trained techs rehabbed an oil leak by replacing the valve cover gasket. The 1K pulls hard to redline and feeds power through a stout automatic gearbox. It’s peppy about town and cruises comfortably on the interstate. For beach trips and snow days, a low range and center locker can be engaged to keep momentum moving forward. An overhaul of the suspension was performed, too. New rear shocks and rear upper control arms were replaced so this truck could safely pass state inspection. An alignment was dialed in after we replaced the sway bar links and bushings, to boot. We also installed new inner and outer tie rods to get everything just right, and the new 31″ Falken tires will last for a good long while to come. The power steering is light and easy to articulate, and we have completely rebuilt the steering rack and installed new rack bushings. The short wheelbase lends itself to a tight turn radius, and the highway drive is confident. The standard ABS brakes have been bolstered with new front pads and rotors, and this rig stops, starts, and steers like a Toyota should!

Inquire today on Fourbie Exchange, or visit the dealer’s website for more information