Description
The Toyota Century is Japan's ultimate expression of automotive luxury, prestige, and understated elegance. Rarely seen outside of Japan, this hand-built flagship sedan is revered as the official car of choice for Japan's imperial family, government officials, and business elites. Unlike flashy Western luxury cars, the Century emphasizes refinement, tradition, and quiet excellence over opulence and showmanship.
Toyota Century: Overview
Segment: Full-size luxury sedan (flagship model)
Built in: Japan (handcrafted at Toyota's Higashi-Fuji plant)
Market: Primarily Japan-only, extremely limited exports
Key Highlights
Timeless, Regal Design
Conservative, stately exterior with clean lines and classic proportions
Distinctive phoenix emblem ("H-") hand-engraved to symbolize elegance and dignity
Ultra-Quiet Ride & Smooth Power
1997 G50 model: 5.0L V12 tuned for silence and smoothness
Craftsmanship & Materials
Hand-stitched upholstery and laser-cut leather interior trim
Expert takumi (master artisans) handle final assembly and finishing
Traditional Japanese elements (e.g., washi-inspired textures, lacquered wood panels)
Rear-Seat Royalty
Rear seating is the focus: fully reclining seats with massage, leg rests, and climate zones
Rear entertainment system and privacy shades
BSZ 1698
This particular Century is part of an extensive private collection and the car has been maintained regardless of cost. In particular, all the wheels were recently refinished and are fitted with new Michelin Primacy tyres, chosen because of their low noise capabilities.
The car is also fitted with a Pioneer AVH-Z7000DAB providing modern Bluetooth , DAB, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with a reversing camera. For convenience a heads-up display in Mph is also fitted. However, as shown in the pics, it also has the original 1997 voice recorder still fitted in the rear armrest section.
As might be expected the car drives superbly and has covered only 60,308 miles. It is currently MOT'd until September but will be serviced and MOT'd for 12 months for the new owner. Given the cost to import a Century the car is priced sensibly so, please, no silly offers. The ageless number plate is included with the car.
Please note that this car has been part of my private collection and, as a result, mileage is minimal whilst the car itself has been maintained to a very high standard. The car will be serviced with a new MOT for the new owner.