1993 Toyota Century VG40
Registration no. L763 LBE Chassis no. V40-014042

Bonhams July Motoring Auction|25 July 2020, 13:00 BST|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

1993 Toyota Century VG40
Registration no. L763 LBE
Chassis no. V40-014042

Odometer Reading: 40,000
MoT Expiry: 01/01/2021

*Seldom seen in the UK
*Bodywork said to be very good
*Engine said to be excellent for starting and running

The Century has always been a Japanese market-only offering targeting royalty, politicians, and businessmen lucky enough to have a chauffeur rather than having to do their own driving. One of only five on UK roads, this 1993 VG40 model is said to have very good bodywork and good paintwork and trim – the vendor notes there is a slight indentation to the rear bumper and a minor touch-up to an offside door. The interior has vendor-ranked good seats (there is a minor cigarette burn to the front passenger seat cushion) while headlining, dashboard, carpets and door cards are said to be very good: the original lace seat and headrest covers are still fitted. Our vendor reports the engine to be excellent for starting and running and the underbonnet presentation is described as very good, but the bonnet strut is missing. The gearbox and suspension are said to be very good, the brakes and axles excellent. New brake lines (custom fabricated) and rear electronic air shock absorbers have been fitted, along with a custom-made pitman arm. The electrics are noted to be good but the vendor says replacement front door window gears are required, as is an air-conditioning belt and speed sensor. This model comes with factory fitted rear television and VHS cassette player, two detachable front wing flagpoles, and original sales and maintenance brochures.

Never sold new in Europe this Century makes a rare and interesting luxury saloon.

Footnotes

Vendor Score Total: 78/100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 18/25
Body Work: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 3
Glass: 5
Paint: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 3

INTERIOR TOTAL: 15/20
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4
Headlining: 4
Seats: 3
Trim: 4

ENGINE TOTAL: 18/20
Mechanical components: 4
Running: 5
Starting: 4
Under Bonnet: 4

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 18/20
Axles: 5
Brakes: 5
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Suspension: 4

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 5/10
Ancillary components: 2
Main components: 3

Car History File: 4

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