1997 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, RZJ90

t Dune Metallic over Gray (K03) example. Aside from a few light chips, scuffs, and dings, the paint is in good shape, and this reliable and refined rig is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 108k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this baby is barely broken in. Perfect as an all-weather daily driver, overlander, or campsite cruiser, this Japanese Classic is as cool as it gets. Easy to service, and as capable as they come, this JDM SUV is an enthusiast’s special, and you won’t want to miss out on it. The cabin is spacious, nicely optioned, and includes room for eight! Known for its quality materials, the interior gives off Lexus GX vibes. The standard equipment list is impressive and includes ABS, dual SRS airbags, and automatic digital climate control. The latter of which is intuitive to operate, and can cycle cold A/C and blazing hot heat through the cabin. If you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear quarter glass butterflies out, and there is a large power moonroof that retracts and tilts. Optional rear seat heat and a/c were also spec’d on this Prado. The OEM audio above works like a charm, as does the factory field monitor located atop the dash, which displays information about outside conditions and direction of travel if you lose cell service. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and the glove box is sizable, still stowing the owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column to find the ideal driving position. Power folding mirrors, electric locks, power windows, and even an electric sunroof all operate in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use enjoyable. The gray and tan cloth is in above average shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear row can fold up against the d-pillar, and the middle row can slide fore and aft or flip forward. The headliner, door cards, and carpets have withstood major abuse over the years, and overall, the cabin condition is impressive. Aside from some shifter wear and the right side of the Field Monitor no longer illuminating, it’s hard to nitpick this thing. This body-on-frame brute is one tough cookie, and the same can be said for the intercooled 1KZ-TE that provides propulsion. Two new 12v batteries allow for a quick start-up with a twist of the key and the 3.0L is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new fuel filter was installed and we replaced a few fuel lines that had some corrosion buildup. The 1K produces gobs of torque and is highly efficient. Its linked to a stout manual gearbox and feeds power through a full-time 4WD system. Shifts lack any hitches or grinds, and the manual gives a level of control to the driver that is absent from the slushbox-equipped models. A center locker and low range can be engaged when the going gets tough, and this rig will comfortably cruise at American interstate speeds. The suspension absorbs road imperfections with confidence and has been completely refreshed. New rear shocks and new upper and lower control arms were replaced while on the lift. We also rehabbed the power steering system with a rack rebuild. New inner and outer tie rods were installed to make the alignment easy, and this truck tracks straight as an arrow. Grip is handled by four new 31′′ Falken tires we mounted and balanced at each corner. The ABS brakes feel confident, and this truck would make for a cushy daily driver or fun weekend play toy. Turn key and ready to rock, this is one terrific Toyota.