For Sale: 1997 Toyota Custom in Statesville, North Carolina

Vehicle Description

ODOMETER IS 191,207 KILOMETERS; CONVERTED TO MILEAGE IN LISTING HIGHLIGHTS: Legal JDM import Clean NC title! 3.0L turbo diesel 4WD 3-row seating! Turn-key driver! BODY OVERVIEW: The exterior of this HiAce represents the classic ""forward control"" aesthetic that defined the golden era of JDM vans. The Super Custom Living Saloon EX trim means it wears its original Two-Tone paint and model-specific decals with pride. Structurally, the van is solid and well-preserved, showcasing the solid build quality Toyota is known for. It maintains a commanding presence on the road, though the driver is positioned directly over the front wheels, providing a panoramic view of the world (but from the right side of the cabin). As to be expected with any vehicle of this era, there are minor dings etc. from age and use, but overall it presents nicely. PAINT CONDITION OVERVIEW: The paint on this van appears to be original and presents very well. It holds a respectable shine, and is in good condition overall. However, time and the elements have left a few honest reminders of its history. Prospective owners will find minor rock chips on the front fascia from three decades of travel, fading on the original factory vinyl stickers and decals, and small, age-related blemishes consistent with its mileage. It is a ""driver-level"" exterior that looks fantastic from five feet away and is perfectly suited for actual use rather than being hidden under a silk car cover. INTERIOR CONDITION OVERVIEW: Step inside, and you are transported back to 1990s Japan. The interior is in excellent original condition, showing only the minor wear expected of a well-cared-for vehicle. The velour upholstery is plush and remarkably preserved, as this type of seat covering was seen as luxury in Japan at the time. The layout is a masterpiece of modularity: The middle row rotates 180 degrees to face the rear, the sliding third row folds down to create a massive cargo area or a makeshift sleeping platform, and power curtains allow for instant privacy at the touch of a button. The original Japanese head unit has been removed, but it would have only picked up static on US frequencies anyway. The power windows and power curtains work, however buyers should note that the passenger side curtain gets hung up during operation. MECHANICAL OVERVIEW: Under the front seats lies the 1KZ-TE 3.0L turbo diesel engine, a powerplant renowned globally for its durability and low-end torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, this HiAce handles highway cruising and off-road excursions with equal capability. All mechanical systems and accessories seem to function exactly as they should. It starts promptly, idles smoothly, and offers that distinctive diesel clatter that signals a lifetime of reliability ahead (plus that sweet, sweet turbo whistle!). WHAT YOU'LL LOVE ABOUT THIS CAR: You will love the sheer ""cool factor"" of driving a high-spec van that most Americans have never seen before. The 4WD system makes it an incredible candidate for a unique overlanding build or a weekend camper. The visibility is unparalleled, and the 180-degree rotating seats turn every parking lot hangout into a mobile living room. Furthermore, the 1KZ engine is a torque-rich gem that makes this van surprisingly capable in traffic compared to its naturally aspirated counterparts. WHAT YOU MIGHT HATE ABOUT THIS CAR: If you are shy, this is not the vehicle for you; expect to spend ten minutes explaining what it is every time you stop for fuel. The right-hand-drive configuration requires a brief learning curve, particularly when navigating drive-thrus or overtaking on two-lane roads. Additionally, if you were hoping to listen to Japanese talk radio on the original deck, you are out of luck, as the dashboard currently features a tidy opening where the obsolete head unit once lived. DOES IT NEED ANYTHING? As far as we can tell, this van is ready for the road. The most immediate ""need"" is a modern stereo to fill the dash gap and provide your own soundtrack. Beyond that, a fresh set of decals could be sourced if you are a perfectionist, but otherwise, this HiAce simply needs a new owner and a destination! WHAT BUYER IS LOOKING FOR THIS CAR? This van is intended for the enthusiast who values utility over trendiness-but still wants something a little quirky. It is perfect for the adventurous camper who wants something more rugged than a Westfalia, the JDM collector who appreciates high-trim oddities, or the ""Van Life"" enthusiast who refuses to drive a generic white cargo box! Contact Rare Rides Company at 980-306-8100 or [email protected] for more information The advertised price for this vehicle includes the $250 document fee added by Rare Rides Company. Rare Rides Company does not collect tax, tag or title fees. Title Status: CLEAN DOES IT WORK? Air Conditioning YES Heater YES Speedometer YES Odometer YES Oil PSI Gauge/Light YES Temperature Gauge/Light YES Fuel Gauge YES Tachometer YES Wipers YES Windows YES Horn YES Radio NO - no radio installed Headlights YES Tail Lights YES Brake Lights YES Reverse Lights YES Turn Signals YES Emergency Brake YES 4x4/AWD YES Tire Condition: Good tread, 2022 date codes Keys - Ignition YES, Door YES, Trunk YES Seatbelts Front: YES Rear: YES Runs & Drives YES

Vehicle Details

  • 1997 Toyota Custom
  • Listing ID: CC-2060024
  • Price: $19,995
  • Location:Statesville, North Carolina
  • Year:1997
  • Make:Toyota
  • Model:Custom
  • Exterior Color:White
  • Interior Color:Gray
  • Transmission:Automatic
  • Odometer:118810
  • Stock Number:3008
  • VIN:KZH1060028849
Listed By:
Rare Ride Company
128 Innovation Dr.
Statesville, NC 28677

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