1997 Toyota Aristo, V300 JZS161

aero adorns the front and rear, setting the exterior off. The finish shows relatively well save for some expected dings, chips, and paint fade from day-to-day use in Japan, and the cosmetics are accented by chrome window trim, OEM rainguards, and LED tail lamps. Still, for a 25-year-old vehicle, the finish isn’t too worse for the wear and an Aimgain style grille and OEM optional side skirts spruce up the exterior a bit. Set off by a set of 19′′ Weds Kranze Bazreia wheels and aftermarket coilovers, this JZS161 exudes VIP styling, while still being comfortable, capable, and blisteringly quick. In other words, it has all the makings of a true Japanese Classic! The doors open and close with a resounding thud, granting access to one of the most premium Japanese cabins you could get off the showroom floor in 1997. Accented by custom perforated leather seat covers, the materials show well in this Vertex edition and were clearly cared for in a prior life. While we did want to note some light cracking and peeling on the reskinned upholstery, it’s in good shape overall and both forward power seats work like a charm. The dash is trimmed in a complementary textured black vinyl and has fortunately resisted any serious use and abuse over the years. For the safety conscious, dual front and side SRS airbags are at the ready, and the driver benefits from a power tilt and telescoping steering column. The center stack is framed by blackwood accents and houses dual zone automatic climate control with cold A/C and hot heat on tap. Also accessible is factory touchscreen audio which functions seamlessly should you want a soundtrack as you drive. For drivers prioritizing performance, a Blitz boost gauge has been mounted in lieu of one of the air vents and displays boost pressure accurately. As expected from a loaded sedan, a full suite of power amenities is functional to make daily driving a bit easier. Power windows, locks, and power-folding mirrors work as expected, and a power moonroof rapidly retracts at the flip of a switch in case you prefer a more open-air driving experience. Privacy tint keeps any wandering eyes from spying on your belongings, and we’ve even retained the factory-carpeted floor mats, owner’s manual, and maintenance booklet to add to this sedan’s storied history.