Luxurious JDM Import: 1997 Toyota Celsior

Toyota launched Lexus as its luxury marque in 1989, following a path pursued by manufacturers like Ford and General Motors. Interestingly, the company didn’t start using the Lexus badge on its domestic models until 2006. Therefore, this 1997 Celsior is, to all intent and purpose, a Lexus LS400 wearing Toyota badges. Its presentation is hard to fault, and it is ready to find a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting a Japanese classic that stands out from the crowd.

Lexus launched its Second Generation LS range in 1994 with a short four-year sales run. Our feature car is a final year Japanese domestic version wearing Toyota Celsior badges. Don’t be fooled by that because it features the engineering, drivetrain, and luxury appointments that are a Lexus hallmark. It is unclear when it found its way to North America, but faulting its presentation is extremely difficult. The White paint retains a mirror shine, and if there are defects, they are too minor to show in the supplied photos. I would be surprised if there weren’t chips on the front bumper, but correcting these would be inexpensive if the new owner seeks perfection. The panels are straight, with the type of tight and consistent gaps buyers expect from Lexus. The glass is clear, and the 16″ wheels are spotless.

Powering this Toyota is the syrupy-smooth Lexus 4.0-liter V8 that generates 280hp and 296 ft/lbs of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission tackles shifting duties, with power steering and four-wheel ABS discs as standard features. The car’s acceleration figures are impressive for a luxury classic of this caliber, as is its ability to hit 150mph. The seller confirms that the Toyota has a genuine 69,000 miles on the clock and that they replaced the timing belt and water pump at 58,000 miles. When you add new tires, brake rotors, and an alignment to the equation, it is unsurprising that this Celsior is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

We should probably address the elephant in the room first. This classic is a Japanese import, meaning it is a right-hand drive. Some people find that intimidating because it is contrary to the configuration that has been second nature since the day most of us slipped behind the wheel for the first time. However, adapting is surprisingly easy, so potential buyers shouldn’t consider RHD as a deal-breaker before sampling this classic. The Celsior is a luxury model, making its extensive list of creature comforts unsurprising. The new owner can sink back into an interior with climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power seats, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a trip computer, and a premium stereo with a vast array of speakers. The photos confirm that this classic has been treated respectfully because there is no evidence of abuse or aftermarket additions. The cloth upholstered surfaces are excellent, the pale carpet shows no signs of stains, the plastic hasn’t cracked, and, there is no UV damage. This Toyota will comfortably accommodate five people, and with its V8 offering surprisingly good fuel economy, it could serve as a practical daily driver.

I have been fortunate enough to drive a variety of classic cars, including a Lexus LS400. The defining characteristic of that car was its almost eerie smoothness and quietness. These are refined vehicles that suit enthusiasts wishing to combine respectable performance with lashings of luxury. The seller listed this 1997 Toyota Celsior here on Facebook Marketplace in Mechanicsville, Virginia. Their asking price of $8,000 makes it undeniably affordable, offering its new owner plenty of features for their money. If you can get your head around its right-hand drive configuration, is this a classic you might consider?