1996 TOYOTA CELSIOR - 34,483 KM

This 1996 Toyota Celsior is a superb example of the rarely-seen Japanese luxury saloon, which is a domestic market version of the more familiar Lexus LS model of the same era. Under the bonnet sits the 4.0-litre V8 engine, coupled with a smooth four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer currently indicates 34,483 kilometres from new.

First registered in February 1996, this Celsior was imported from Japan in 2015 as a Grade 4B vehicle at auction, which typically denotes a good quality example. Its most recent private owner acquired the car in September 2015, and it is now offered for sale by the trade.

The bodywork is all in good shape, and the condition of the white paintwork has been described as excellent, though the vendor has reported a number of minor blemishes. The paint is peeling off at the leading edges of the windscreen, and there are some small bubbles on the driver’s side front wing, which the vendor reports have been caused by humidity. The vehicle rides on a set of 16-inch wheels, which present with some faint scratches.

Inside, the beige fabric upholstery is in excellent condition, presenting with just a few very small creases. The original patterned carpets are in good shape, and the leather and fabric door card inserts present very well. The centre console and electric window switches are trimmed with a walnut veneer, which is free of any notable scuffs. All of the switchgear appears to work as it should, with the factory specification including dual-zone climate control, cruise control, adjustable air suspension, and satellite navigation.

The last routine maintenance was undertaken in July 2018 at 25,912 km, where technicians at K & M Autos carried out a major service, changing the engine oil, filters, spark plugs and bulbs. Prior to this, October 2016 at 22,635 km, technicians carried out a minor service.

The most recent MOT test was on 20 November 2020 at 33,505 km, which resulted in a pass with four advisories to monitor worn brake discs, worn rear brake pads and a slightly damaged offside rear seat belt. The wheels are wrapped with Rapid tyres, which were fitted around 1,000 km ago.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original handbooks and toolkit, along with a few maintenance and MOT invoices.

This Toyota Celsior is a smart and evidently well-cared for example of the JDM luxury saloon, which represents an intriguing alternative to a Lexus LS of the same period. Presenting in original and unmodified ‘time warp’ condition, this Celsior is an unusual export that could make a reliable daily driver or a great value addition to any collection.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.