Stock #6989
Models like this Celsior usher in a new era for Japanese Classics, and are primed and ready to daily drive in the 21st century.
Exterior Overview
Upon its introduction in 1990, the Toyota Celsior set the standard for what a Japanese luxury sedan could be, and proved that you didn’t need a star, a propeller, or four rings on the grille to enjoy an opulent driving experience. Moderately facelifted through its first production run, the model didn’t undergo a significant redesign until the debut of the UCF31 bodystyle in 2000. Boasting a revised 4.3L V8, updated styling, and a cabin design that would become standard for the brand’s luxury offerings throughout the 2000’s, this iteration was just as impressive as its predecessor, and our Type C is an excellent example of the chassis. Finished in White Frost Mica (062), the cosmetics are bone stock, and this UCF31 boasts updated Xenon headlamps, and factory puddle lights on the mirrors. Save for a few minor rock chips and dings, the 25-year-old aesthetic is in above-average shape overall, and passionate brand loyalists will appreciate that the 80k miles on the clock are verified and documented. Models like this Celsior usher in a new era for Japanese Classics, and are primed and ready to daily drive in the 21st century. Sometimes living in the past isn’t so bad!
Interior Overview
The interior is completely revamped and frankly feels years ahead of its time. Carrying on traditions from the previous generation, premium materials were used, but this Celsior boasts a few useful upgrades for both driver and passenger. For starters, additional safety was added, with dual front, side, and curtain SRS airbags. Upgraded perforated leather upholstery adorns both front and rear benches, and both driver and passenger benefit from both heated and ventilated power adjustable seats. The driver can dial in a tailored fit behind the wheel, with a power-adjustable headrest, seat bottom, and dual lumbar adjustment. The materials have held up well to daily use and abuse, and are nicely worn in with only a few stress marks to note. The same can be said for the condition of the steering wheel, which is mated to a functional power tilt and telescoping steering column. The center stack is intuitively designed and is chock full of tons of useful power equipment. A factory touch screen displays clearly, and physical buttons allow both driver and passenger to dial in dual zone automatic climate control. Cold A/C and hot heat work like a charm through the optional oscillating vents, and rear passengers have their own dedicated set of climate vents. Also functional is premium OEM audio, and the factory 6 disc changer is loaded with some old-school tunes for your enjoyment. If you prefer the windows down and music loud, all four power windows are operable. Keyless entry operates the power locks, and the side mirrors electronically fold in if you’re squeezing into a tight parking spot. Parking is made easier with functional park distance control. The headliner is tight and tidy, and the carpets are protected by OEM mats. With a slew of premium materials and terrific build quality, it’s hard to go wrong. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect, as the gas struts supporting the trunk lid are starting to weaken, and the factory toolkit is missing.
Mechanical Overview
Finishing off the laundry list of upgrades for its 2000 model year refresh, Toyota threw some extra displacement at the V8 under the hood to boot. The 3UZ-FE VVTi is one of the brand’s best designs, and has a staunch reputation for going the distance with just basic maintenance. Still, our trained technicians have given this 4.3l a once-over for the road ahead, starting with a new 12v battery that was installed to aid ignition. From there, we performed an oil and filter service, and installed a new mass airflow sensor to keep the 4.3l V8 copacetic. With the maintenance performed, it drives smooth as butter, and power is thrown rearward courtesy of a 5 speed automatic transmission. The gearbox benefits from a new gasket on the transmission pan, and fresh fluid that we flushed in. Cruising at highway speeds is an effortless affair, and factory adjustable air suspension helps insulate the cabin under harsher driving conditions. It also operates well, and to get the suspension safety compliant, we also installed new front lower control arm bushings and installed a new rear differential pinion seal. The power steering is feather-light and easy to maneuver, and the nitrogen-assisted ABS brakes stop on a dime, thanks to new front pads and rotors. The factory directional alloys are wrapped in Goodyear tires on all four corners, and as a final QC measure, we also performed a fresh alignment!
*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.