1998 Toyota Aristo, Vertex edition JZS161

00 is set off by a Tom’s front bumper, halo headlamps, and it assumes a lowered stance thanks to adjustable Tein coilovers. Save for a few minor paint defects, the cosmetics are in good shape overall. Most 25 year old Toyotas also get driven hard, which makes the 132k miles on the clock a welcome sight for any buyer. This Aristo is the true definition of a sleeper sedan. It looks like a Lexus, but is a true terror on the tarmac. It’s a real-deal Japanese Classic, and can hang with the best of them! The 2JZ-GTE under the bonnet needs little to no introduction, but to those unfamiliar with this powerhouse there’s truly no better drivetrain you could put in this Luxury saloon. Ours is riddled with cool upgrades, and is fresh off a recent service here at our shop. It cranks over swiftly, care of a new 12v battery, and settles into a smooth idle, with new spark plugs aiding combustion across the board. It’s also fresh off an oil and filter service, and benefits from a new filter element we installed in the HKS intake. Assisting the twin turbochargers, a Greddy front mount intercooler and Blitz blow off valve work in tandem. Fueling has also been upgraded, with SARD 650cc injectors, and an HKS Fcon iS ECU masterminds the operation and ensures this 3.0TT runs like a top, with a Kakimoto catback amplifying the intoxicating JZ engine note. Shifts are also direct and plenty quick through the stock automatic gearbox, which is built like a tank. Power is sent rearward, and this V300 can get down in the twisties thanks to adjustable Tein coilovers, upgraded front and rear swaybars, and new front caster arms we installed for state safety inspection. Despite being a larger sedan, the steering is nicely weighted and easy to maneuver. It also stops on a dime, with Supra turbo front brake calipers and upgraded rotors. The stock alloys are in good shape, and wrapped in fresh Falken tires. They’ll kill road noise, deliver plenty of traction, and should last for miles and miles to come!