Toyota Century V12

The Toyota Century V12

Imagine scoring a used car with a V12 engine on the cheap. Sounds like a fantasy, right? Well, that’s precisely what happened when a Toyota Century V12 rolled off the auction block in the USA at a price reminiscent of a used Corolla. But that’s the magic of the Toyota Century—the ultimate under-the-radar gem from Japan, rarely seen stateside but offering a luxury experience that rivals, and perhaps tops, many more recognized brands.

Specifications

The Toyota Century isn’t just about its luxury appointments; it’s sheer engineering excellence packed into a sedan. The car features a V12 engine, a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess, delivering around 276 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. It’s harnessed to a rear-wheel drivetrain and a four-speed automatic transmission, offering a smooth yet powerful drive. This particular model has seen about 96,000 miles on the odometer, which for a vehicle of its caliber, suggests it has many miles left to offer.

Design and Features

The Toyota Century encapsulates everything you might expect from a premium luxury sedan—even decades after it first rolled off the factory floor. The interior is a masterclass in luxury. Heated, power-adjustable rear seats with a massage function reflect the opulence it offers. An air suspension system smooths out the ride, while the backseat entertainment system includes conveniences like flip-down cup holders and a remote.

Let’s not forget about the unique front passenger seat design; part of the backrest folds forward, allowing rear passengers the opportunity to stretch their legs comfortably. It’s these thoughtful features that distinguish the Century as more than just a car, but as an experience.

Driving Experience

Driving the Toyota Century is less about raw power and more about serene sophistication. It’s a ride akin to a glide, thanks to its air suspension setup and powerful V12, which is more for the smooth delivery of power rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to something like the Lexus LS400, the Century offers an even more isolationist ride, more tuned for comfort than speed. What it may lack in terms of blistering acceleration, it more than makes up for in dignified refinement.

Conclusion

In the American car landscape, spotting a Toyota Century is a rare treat, akin to seeing a unicorn in the wild. This car isn’t just about luxury or performance stats; it’s a celebrated piece of Japanese automotive heritage. Owned for its rarity as much as for its luxury, it’s a conversation starter and a head-turner, combining a unique blend of exclusivity and understated elegance. Although it may have been a lesser-known model in the U.S., it stands as a classic Japanese icon—a vessel of tradition, craftsmanship, and understated opulence that cannot be said about most cars in its price range.