Joined: 15 Apr 2007 Posts: 564 Location: Perth, WA
Posted: Sun Mar 16, 2008 10:23 pm Post subject: Wanting to buy an Aristo ?... All the info you need
ok, this thread is for all the Newbie people joining the forum who are either looking to buy or new owners who are looking to find out a little more about their ride
Models - JZS147 Toyota Aristo's - Built from 1991 to August 1997
There were 3 models available, all denoting different engine types but all being AUTO, no manual available. There was no special version available, basically you could choose what engine and what specs you wanted. Some of which include, sunroof, floor mats, LSD, TV player, subwoofer, Air purifier, CD stacker, Leather, windsheild protectors etc. There were several colours available, black, silver, dark blue, two tone white over silver, and white. Black is the most favourite and most common
There is 2 shapes to the 147 range, series 1 and series 2 with the change happening around mid 95 (?? unsure). There wasnt a whole lot that changed but the way to tell is by the rear bumper and light set up, with series 2 being a little bigger bulge in the rear.
This is the most common model available found in the aristo, it is also the fastest with a stock 3.0V pulling mid to high 14 sec 1/4mile times. This engine was first debut in the aristo before being put into the JZA80 Supra. These engines can handle around 500-800hp on a stock bottom end. They are very strong and take well to mods. Check out www.supraforums.com to see some big HP 2jz engines.
3.0Q - 3.0lt non turbo inline 6cyl 2JZGE engine. This is a good motor, albeit the least powerful it still has good pickup and drive. People have put turbos on these engines with some success. see www.supraforums.com.au for some 400hp+ NA-T Supra's running same engine
i-Four - 4.0lt Quad Cam V8 1UZFE engine. This is the rarest of all Aristo's. The V8 came out in various other models but in the Aristo is put with the i-FOUR 4WD system. Not very much is known about the 4wd but www.toymods.net would be a good place to look. The 4wd system does help with off the line take off but not having the outright power as the 3.0V has, it isnt as fast down the strip.
The below link is to a Members FOR Sale thread for his i-Four V8
Iam looking to buy?.... what do i need to look out for ?
Generally speaking they are a pretty good car for reliability. The Engine and gearbox are very strong. General maintenance is key like every car, if its been serviced regularly and looked after then it should be fine. Get an inspection to find any niggling problems
- Ball Joints - most common problem, if car is lowered and an early model then its most likely they will be rooted. There was a factory recall for early models around 94-95 to rectify the problem and cars with this are denoted by a yellow dot on the strut tower... See this thread. http://www.jzs147.com.au/forum/viewtopic.php?t=307
- Window Regulators - Also with older models they will go, the whole assembly will need to be replaced which are usually a few hunded $$
Should i import one or buy one locally ?
This is entirely personal preference. There are good and bad points to both.
- Importing - Generally alot cheaper to buy, you can pick one up for $10k + compliance and on roads. Compliance will usually go for around $2500 to $4000 depending on if anything needs to be fixed, but has been known to go above $5000. With this you can get an aristo very cheap, but be prepared to wait for it !! as importing is a slow process and you could have to wait 4 months + from initial payment for your ride.
- Local Cars - You have the chance to look over the car in person, even take it for a drive, however they are alot more expensive, running from $16k to $24k depending on condition, age and specs.
Generally speaking if you are between the ages of 18-25 you are going to get reamed hard for more than $1000 a year. See the link for some insurance companies available.
Joined: 15 Apr 2007 Posts: 564 Location: Perth, WA
Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 8:32 pm Post subject:
dim51m wrote:
Can you guys recommend an import broker to import an Aristo for myself?
there are a few... Aaron from www.rampant.net.au can import one for you, i know he imported Mal's 97 and he is happy with that, and ive delt with him and had no probs
Joined: 04 Dec 2007 Posts: 144 Location: Mackay QLD
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2008 6:45 am Post subject: Re: Wanting to buy an Aristo ?... All the info you need
Generally speaking they are a pretty good car for reliability. The Engine and gearbox are very strong. General maintenance is key like every car, if its been serviced regularly and looked after then it should be fine. Get an inspection to find any niggling problems
- Ball Joints - most common problem, if car is lowered and an early model then its most likely they will be rooted. There was a factory recall for early models around 94-95 to rectify the problem and cars with this are denoted by a yellow dot on the strut tower... See this thread. http://www.jzs147.com.au/forum/viewtopic.php?t=307
- Window Regulators - Also with older models they will go, the whole assembly will need to be replaced which are usually a few hunded $$
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There are a few other common problems to be noted:
Radiator tank is prone to cracking - which could also lead to a cracked head so something to look out for when buying.
Brake booster nitrogen accumulator tends to need to be recharged - so if buying a car with a warranty if booster pump cuts in and out on every brake application take it back
Harmonic balancers are prone to coming apart.
I'm sure there are a few more - if anyone has anything to add it all will help!
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