Description
Hand picked by us via our Japanese agent, arrived late 2019 and now UK registered and prepared.
This superb Toyota Century is one of the first 5. 0 V12 models and is finished in Rinpo Grey with contrasting lambswool interior.
For those who don't know what a Century is, have a look at some if the films on youtube. It is essentially Japan's Rolls Royce yet boasts a level of quality and attention to detail that is the best I have seen, making many of Europe's luxury cars appear lacking.
The Toyota Century is the choice of car for Japanese heads of state, diplomats, senior government officials and company CEO's. The Century has been in production in 3 different forms since 1967. The first generation was produced until 1997 when it was replaced by this second generation version that is Japan's first and only V12 engined car. This engine is 4996cc and produces around 290 bhp and is mated to a 4 speed automatic transmission. It is perhaps strange that Toyota never offered a Land Cruiser with this engine? The third generation Century has just been introduced and reverts to a V8 powerplant with hybrid assistance. All generations of the Century are regarded as an ultra luxury car and as such have competed with the Mercedes 600, ZIL, Rolls and top Cadillac's.
Our example has covered 192000 kms at the time of writing which equates to 119000 miles. The colour combination is superb and the lambswool interior option was an upgrade over leather trim. There is comprehensive inspection and service history covering some 13 services. Also present is the full bookpack with all manuals, export certificate and Japanese auction inspection report with a grade 3. 5/ B rating.
Overall condition is superb with excellent paintwork, chrome and an interior that you'd expect from such a well looked after vehicle. The underside like all our Japanese imports is in better condition than UK cars a fraction of it's age.
Our preparation has included fitting 4 new Falken tyres, replacing the expansion tank and carrying out an engine oil service and transmission service, with parts purchased from our local Toyota main dealer.
The specification includes air suspension (set of course for comfort, not lap times!), soft close rear doors and bootlid, fully electric rear seats with massage function, electric centre storage compartment, rear vanity mirrors, rear heating and stereo controls, electric front seats, air-con, abs, traction control. Also present is the original cassette walkman & headphones for the rear passengers, unused toolkit and wool overmats.
The Century driving experience is all about comfort and refinement. Having owned many 7 series, S-Class, A8 and Jaguar XJ it is safe to say that the Toyota Century exceeds them all as a luxury car.
According to the online London ULEZ check this 5. 0 12 cylinder motor car is exempt from the charge!
Please don't hesitate to get in touch with your interest.
