Legendary V12 Toyota CENTURY | Japan's Official State Car

1999 Toyota Century V12, GZG50-AEPGK

Engine & Performance
5.0L 1GZ-FE V12 engine — the only mass-produced V12 ever built in Japan.
Smooth, quiet, and tuned for luxury, not aggressive performance.
Approx. 280 hp (officially capped) due to Japan’s gentleman’s agreement.
Known for its incredible refinement, minimal vibration, and silent operation.
Rear-wheel drive with a 4-speed automatic transmission (reliable, buttery smooth).

Luxury & Craftsmanship
Often called Japan’s Rolls-Royce.
Hand-built touches — exceptional interior quality, wool seats, real wood trim.
Rear seats are the true highlight: reclining seats, massage, entertainment controls.
Designed primarily for executives and VIP chauffeuring.

Exterior & Design
Conservatively elegant design that didn’t change much for decades.
Distinctive Phoenix (Hō-ō) emblem, a symbol of prestige.
Soft-close doors, thick sound-insulation, timeless boxy silhouette.
Built for comfort, not flash — understated Japanese luxury.

Ride & Driving Feel
Ultra-soft suspension designed to isolate passengers from road imperfections.
Prioritizes silence, smoothness, and comfort over speed or sportiness.
Heavy, stable, “floaty,” but extremely refined.

Dimensions & Presence
Large, stately sedan with a commanding road presence.
Viewed as a status symbol in Japan, especially for government officials and CEOs. (official statee car)

Facts & Rarity
Very low production numbers — rare even in Japan.
Royal Family / Japanese Emperor rides in Toyota Century
Maintenance can be high due to the complex V12, but Toyota reliability still shines.
1999 model sits in the early G50 lineup (1997–2017).
The V12 engine design is so refined that two 1JZ inline-6 ECUs were used to control it.
The engine can technically run on just one bank (like a straight-6) if needed.
The Century line is chauffeur-focused, not owner-driver focused.
Preferred by Japanese Prime Ministers and business tycoons for decades.