2000 Toyota Celsior, UCF30

his Mystic Sea Green (6S5) C-type saloon is set off by rear privacy tint and classy OEM gold emblems. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in fine shape, and this five-seater would make for an incredible daily driver, clean slate for a VIP build, or wicked weekend cruiser. This is a Japanese Classic that is reliable, easy to service, and built to last! How can you go wrong? The cabin is large, filled with premium materials, and in good nick overall. Unlike most American examples, this one was spec’d with premium tan cloth seats. Both driver and passenger have electric adjustments so that they may ride in comfort. Pilots of all sizes can find the ideal driving position courtesy of an electric tilt and telescoping steering column. Power folding mirrors, electric locks, power windows, keyless entry, and cruise control all work in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use more enjoyable. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and aside from some light distortion by the top of the center stack, it’s in good shape. Dual SRS curtain, side impact, and front airbags are standard equipment if you happen to be safety-conscious. The OEM audio works as it should, and the digital dual zone climate system above pumps in cold A/C and piping hot heat. To keep cabin temps manageable in summer, a power rear sunshade can be raised, and the rear side glass includes privacy tint. The tan cloth seats are in good shape, and the upholstery lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. Rear passengers have tons of space, and an integrated pass-through system is ideal for hauling long items easily. The door cards and headliner are in good shape, and aside from some minor carpet stains, it’s hard to critique the cabin. We also wanted to note that the key will only operate the driver’s side door and the ignition, there is a tiny crack in the radio bezel, and the power fold function of the side mirrors has given up the ghost. The new platform was extended for more interior room, and a slate of new upgrades were fashioned for this new model. Power was now derived from a 3UZ-FE V8, which replaced the 1UZ-FE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the engine whirrs to life courtesy of a new 12v battery. A set of new spark plugs works to atomize fuel properly and increase performance and fuel economy. The DOHC mill feels healthy as a horse and feeds power to the rear wheels through a silky smooth five-speed automatic gearbox. It gets up to highway speeds without breaking a sweat and can slow down with confidence with its standard ABS and large disc brakes. The long wheelbase distributes bumps nicely, and the height-adjustable suspension works like a charm. So that it passed state inspection with flying colors, a new set of front lower ball joints was installed, and we aligned the chassis so it tracks straight as an arrow. The power steering is light and easy to articulate. So that things stay that way, we have flushed the system and replaced the fluid. Lastly, we mounted and balanced four brand new all-season tires. The new rubber reduces road noise and should last for tens of thousands of miles to come.