1997 Toyota Century V12

Stock Number 1972

4 speed auto

5.0L 1GZ-FE V12

73,313 verified miles

RWD

Power Adjustable and Heated Front and Rear Seats

Auto Dimming Rear Mirror

6 Disk CD Changer

Power Telescoping and adjustable Steering Wheel

Digital dash

Power Adjusting Mirrors

Power Locks

Felt Lined Storage Cubbies

Adjustable and Dimmable Rear Map Lights

Roof Mounted Digital Clock

Rear TV Screen

Digital Climate Control

Touchscreen Front Display

Soft Close Rear Doors and Trunk

Color Code 8M3 – (Greyish Blue Mica Metallic) 1 of only 581 in this Color

The Toyota Century is the pinnacle of Japanese luxury, hand built to exacting standards and reserved for Japan’s elite, each Century was made to order, and just under 10,000 have been produced in its 20 years of production. Due to each Century being hand crafted by a team of 43 highly skilled craftsmen with only 2% of the process being automated, this 1997 model exemplifies the craftsmanship and refinement that define the Century name. Featuring a smooth and powerful V12 engine, an opulent interior, and a timeless body style and finished in the rare Greyish Blue Mica Metallic (one of only 581 produced in this color) this example offers a unique blend of exclusivity and sophistication for those who want to enjoy the authentic JDM VIP experience.

Under the hood, the Century is powered by Toyota’s legendary 5.0L 1GZ-FE V12, paired with a 4 speed automatic transmission and rear wheel drive. Designed for smoothness and reliability, the V12 delivers effortless acceleration while maintaining a quiet and refined ride. Aftermarket coilovers have been installed, replacing the factory air suspension and eliminating what is typically the first item of service often needed.

Packed with a long list of features, the interior is the real centerpiece of the Century, followed closely behind by the notorious 5.0L V12 that powers this mansion-on-wheels. While the Century wasn't likely marketed for the driver experience but rather the rear passenger's experience, there's no lack of comfort focused features all around. Up front, drivers and passengers have access to digital climate controls, power adjusting and heated gray leather seats, a power adjustable steering wheel, a fully digital dash, and 6 disk CD changer for plenty of entertainment on both short and long drives. Surrounding the occupants, a premium assortment of gloss wood and brushed aluminum trim and accents are all around and provide a first-class feel that still shines today.

Stepping in the rear, the Century takes the work out of even closing the door, with soft close doors that help latch themselves after swinging toward the vehicle. Rear seats get the same treatment of soft cushioning leather, power, and heat as the front seats but feature controls for radio and climate in the armrest. Topping this restful experience, the combination of a nearly full reclining passenger seat and front seat with a fold-through back allows the rear passenger to use the front seat as an ottoman. Map lights above the occupants are dimmable and adjustable and drop-down vanity mirrors and a digital clock sit above in the headliner.

Outside, the Century carries a minimalist nature. Rather than choosing to accentuate curves and create bold body lines, Toyotas designers gave the Century a smooth, long, and sleek look that really lets its luxurious temperament speak for itself. The Greyish Blue Mica Metallic shines bright silver undertones in the light and a soft blue metallic comes out in the shadow. With only minor scratches that would be normal to see in vehicles this age, this Century has aged like a fine, high end, wine.

While the 1GZ-FE wasn't offered in many vehicles, thanks to over 20 years of production, service and maintenance items are plentiful and often still available through Toyota dealers. A remarkably roomy experience, plentiful power features, and a considerably quiet and quick powerplant let the Toyota Century take the toll off of driving. When you're in the Century, luxury and comfort are a certainty, not an option.

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