With a formidable '1JZ' variable-valve timed straight-six turbo, this mighty Crown features a heart of gold
They are slowly now becoming uncommon even in Japan
There comes a point in time where ‘good examples’ of your favourite car become no more.
It’s after the bulk of first owners have moved on, and the fourth and fifth ones have come in and conducted dubious modifications.
This has occurred with the JZS171 Toyota Crown Athlete V. Most examples that we see and survey in the Japanese auction network that are above average generally trade for in excess of 1,800,000 yen – making those examples worth close to $30,000!
In our eyes, that’s just too much. We found this example of a smaller and quieter auction house in Japan and noted on the auction sheet that it had a manufacturer’s service history.
The only upgrades have been a set of wheels. Known for its potent and turbocharged 1JZ engine, the 171-series Toyota Crown is capable and well suited to extensive modifications and high power outputs.
The potent 1JZ engine is half the reason these cars have become worth a pretty penny. This is the only reasonably priced and decent example we’ve found in 12 months, so grab it whilst you can.
The car pictured – 2001 Toyota Crown Athlete V
This Toyota Crown Athlete was built in November 2011 and was purchased from JA Saitama car auctions (Japan) as a 4.0B grade vehicle.
As an ‘Athlete V’ model, it features a turbocharged 2.5-litre inline-six engine with variable valve timing. It produces 206 kilowatts and 377 Newton-metres of torque and features a four-speed auto.
The Japanese auction sheet noted that the vehicle’s maintenance records are from a Toyota dealer. It is an accident- and rust-free example that has never been modified mechanically; it still features its original suspension.
Standard features include power windows and auto-folding mirrors, remote central locking, an optional electric tailgate, electric seats and a few other features.
Quick facts
- 2011 Toyota Crown Athlete V
- 1JZ turbo
- 138,500km
- Automatic
- Rear-wheel drive
- Mechanically original
- Enkei wheels
- Electric tailgate option
- Remote central locking
- Power steering
- Auto folding electric side mirrors
- Toyota service history
- Japanese auction grade 4.0B
- No accidents, no corrosion
- Vehicle will be serviced upon arriving in Australia
- Japanese de-registration paperwork and auction paperwork available.
- Price includes three months NSW registration
- Price includes Australian compliance
- Price includes a NSW roadworthy
TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION has redefined luxury by fully redesigning and refining its Crown and Crown Majesta flagships, setting the standard for 21st century mobile comfort and quality.Toyota Japan, launch of the 11th-generation Crown. Sep. 24, 1999
