1997 Toyota Aristo, S300 JZS161

ght paint defects, the White Pearl (051) paintwork is good overall, and the 85k verified and documented miles on the ticker put this JZS160 at just a fraction of what stateside examples normally tally. Ideal as a blank canvas for a turn-key VIP build, comfortable commuter, or weekend cruiser, the Aristo is one Japanese Classic that we just can’t get enough of! Reliability is Toyota’s specialty, and engines like the 2JZ-GE under the hood are a huge reason why. It’s evident this Aristo was well cared for in a prior life, but we still gave this S300 a refresh in the shop, starting with a new 12v battery to aid ignition. From there, a new engine air filter was installed, keeping contaminants out of your petrol, and we resealed the transmission pan so you don’t come up short on necessary lubricant. An oil and filter service was also performed to get you on track for future maintenance schedules. The VVT-i equipped 2J jets right up to highway speeds, and power is shot rearward. We rehabbed the suspension with new front caster arms, and the stock suspension feels plush yet direct over harsh pavement. The power steering makes navigating tight turns a breeze, and we bolstered the nitrogen-assisted ABS system with new front pads and rotors, and brake pads in the rear. New Falken tires were installed on all four corners to deliver top-tier grip for the road ahead. They also quiet down road noise, and we performed a fresh alignment to ensure they’ll last for tens of thousands of miles to come.