1996 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, RZJ90

led turbodiesel, too, and boasts 118k verified miles on the ticker. Finished in a stately Jewel Green/Gray (K12), this 1996 boasts a slick factory graphics package, an OEM optional brushguard, dual driving lamps, and factory rainguards. Save for some light chips and dings, and fading on the factory graphics, the cosmetics are in above average shape for being almost three decades old, and we did want to note the front left fender was replaced at some point in Japan. Still, that does little to affect the appeal of this rig as a whole, as it stands out from and is far more reliable than the over-computerized rigs on new dealership sales floors. A 4WD icon and a Japanese Classic, what could be better? The interior has a lot going for it. The 3rd row seating is a big draw, but the increased head and legroom are worth their weight in gold as well. It’s also packed with power amenities, useful and reliable equipment, and the grey cloth upholstery shows nary a stain or tear, a clear indicator this rig was well cared for in a prior life. The middle and rear rows are versatile. You can flip the middle bench forward, and fold the rear jump seats off to the side to expand the cargo hold. Up front, the driver can get comfortable behind a tilt-adjustable steering column, and dual SRS airbags are standard for some added peace of mind. The center stack is easy to navigate, and automatic climate control works like a charm. If you prefer more natural ventilation, a large power moonroof tilts and retracts. The woodgrain trim surrounding the switchgear has yet to succumb to unwanted cracks or fading. Accessible and primed for daily use, a full slate of power windows, locks, and adjustable mirrors work as expected, although the driver’s mirror no longer power folds. The headliner is tight and tidy, and for aspiring overlanders, a factory field monitor sits front and center. The multicolored carpeted mats steal the show, and to sweeten the deal even more, we’ve included the original owner’s manual and maintenance booklets. Apart from some steering wheel wear, a dim field monitor display, and nonfunctional audio, it’s hard to critique this cabin as a whole, and it was clearly cared for in Japan! The enthusiast’s pick, the intercooled 1KZ-TE under the hood is far from a novelty. It’s actually the smart performance pick, as it packs plenty of ponies, sufficient torque to propel you off the beaten path, and is easy to maintain, fresh off a recent service here at the shop! It cranks over with haste, care of 2 new 12v batteries, and a new engine air filter and fuel filter keep any contaminants from entering the combustion chamber. A set of new serpentine belts reliably drives your accessories, and this turbodiesel makes good use of its exceptional low end torque to get up to speed with haste. We replaced the bushings on the shift lever, and the automatic gearbox goes through the tree reliably, sending power to a full-time 4WD system, with a selectable center locker and low range on standby if the going gets tough. To ensure drivetrain health, the front output seal was replaced on the transfer case, and the transmission fluid was freshly flushed. The factory suspension soaks up bumps nicely, even over tougher terrain, and the rear upper control arms and rear swaybar links were replaced to keep the suspension safety compliant. We removed the steering rack, rebuilding the unit with new seals and inner and outer tie rods before installing, and this rig starts, steers, and stops as expected. To shore up the ABS system, new front pads and rotors were installed, and fresh Falken all terrain rubber was mounted up on the OEM refinished alloys. Knee-deep in tread, you’ll be covered for tens of thousands of miles, thanks to our fresh alignment!