A Toyota Century V12 for around US$7,500? I bought this 2008 GZG50 in Japan for ¥1,180,000—and now it's time to find out what that money actually buys.

As a former mechanic at an imported-car dealership, I inspect the exterior, interior, engine bay, suspension and underbody before taking it out on the road. From the 5.0-liter V12 and air suspension to the extraordinary rear-seat features, we explore what makes this Japanese luxury sedan so special.

With approximately 197,000 km (122,000 miles) on the clock, this Century has a few things to investigate. We look at oil leaks, a questionable front air strut and steering vibration at highway speeds. I also service the A/C, balance the front wheels and install a digital rearview mirror—then head out for another test drive.

Is this used V12 a luxury bargain, or does the low purchase price hide a bigger ownership bill? Join me for an honest, detailed look from a mechanic's perspective.

CAR DETAILS
2008 Toyota Century — GZG50
5.0L 1GZ-FE V12
6-speed automatic
Mileage: approximately 197,000 km / 122,000 miles
Vehicle purchase price in Japan: ¥1,180,000 / approximately US$7,500*

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:35 Exterior inspection
09:16 Interior inspection
36:29 Engine bay inspection
45:41 Suspension and brakes
53:42 Underbody inspection
1:02:06 A/C service
1:08:40 First test drive
1:28:11 Front wheel balancing
1:31:40 Digital rearview mirror installation
1:43:47 Follow-up test drive
1:45:10 Final verdict

Would you own a Toyota Century? Let me know what you think in the comments.
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*US$7,500 is a rounded conversion using approximately ¥157.3 per US dollar. It represents the Japanese vehicle purchase price, not an overseas landed price. Registration, taxes, export/import costs and shipping are not included in this comparison.

#ToyotaCentury #V12 #JDM