2016 Toyota Century V12

Toyota's flagship is the Century, carrying on the Japanese tradition of master craftsmanship and high-quality monozukuri (all-encompassing manufacturing). The Century is statement that Toyota can produce cars rivaling any other manufacturer in terms of Luxury and refinement.

When the Chairman of Toyota wanted a car to compete with Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Maybach finest offerings, the full capabilities of Toyota's world class design and engineering team were set a very high target, the car had to be the best. A car that the leaders in Japanese government and business would be proud to use for their personal transport.

The Century derived its name from the 100th birthday of Sakichi Toyoda (born 14 February 1867), the founder of Toyota Industries.

The 2nd Generation Century (the G50 series) was produced exclusively for Japan and received a complete redesign in April 1997, although the new model was visually very similar to the previous generation. Powered by a 5.0 L 1GZ-FE V12, rated at 206 kW (276 hp; 280 PS) (although it is possible the actual output is higher) Torque was rated at 460 N⋅m (340 lbf⋅ft) at 4000 rpm. It was initially equipped with a 4-speed A342E automatic, until a 6-speed "intelligent" transmission arrived in 2005. The suspension was upgraded to double wishbone control arms for the front and rear wheels with airbag support springs. The Century remains the first and only Japanese front-engine, rear-wheel-drive production car equipped with a V12, and it has Toyota's first V12 engine.

The Century was Toyota's most luxurious model at its inception in 1967, and maintained this status throughout the 20th century. Today, it is positioned above the Lexus line-up, and is the most luxurious and prestigious Toyota. In contrast to other luxurious cars (such as the Maybach or Rolls-Royce), the Century has not been positioned and marketed as a sign of wealth or excess. Marketing literature states roughly that, "the Century is acquired through persistent work, the kind that is done in a plain but formal suit."

Like other cars in the top of the luxury class, the Century is designed with the rear passengers in mind. Hence, the rear seats recline and the front passenger seat (in right-hand drive cars only) has a fold-down center section so that a passenger in the back may stretch their feet forward. The rear seats are equipped with a massage system. The doors are equipped with a soft-close mechanism.

In 2016 Toyota announced a final run of 100 vehicles to end the production of the V12 powered Century. The second generation Century was discontinued on 4 February 2017, after almost 20 years of production. 9,573 vehicles were built from 1996 (the launch year was 1997) to the final figure of 100 cars in 2016.

This particular car is one of the last 100 cars produced in 2016, and was first registered in Japan February 2017. Finished in Kamui Eternal Black, the paint is completed by 4 master technicians applying 7 layers of paint with each layer polished before the next. The paint is truly mirror like and in some ways reflects the entire philosophy behind the Toyota and the Century's quest for continual improvement towards perfection.

This Century V12 has a Jacquard woolen fabric interior and rear entertainment package.

Highly collectable, very well cared for example. Comes with books, spare keys and odometer certificate.

Buy with confidence from Australia's leading independent specialist. Finance available to approved purchasers. Trade-ins welcome. Viewing by appointment. Please contact our dealership to learn more about this vehicle. Interstate buyers welcome. Transport available.