Tokyo (Pakistan News Online) Car enthusiasts are well aware of some of the most expensive vehicles like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Lexus, but today we’re going to introduce you to a car that rivals Bentley, yet not everyone can buy it, and it isn’t sold outside of Japan. If you wish to purchase this car, you’ll first need to prove your wealth in multiple ways, after which the company will decide whether you are worthy of driving it or not. Surprisingly, this car is made by Toyota, but it’s exclusively built for Japan, and it’s called the “Century.”
Toyota Century Price: The Toyota Century starts at around $180,000, and customized versions can cost significantly more.
Here are some interesting and lesser-known facts about the Toyota Century:
- Japan’s Most Luxurious Car: The Toyota Century is Japan’s most prestigious and luxurious vehicle, often used by executives and members of the royal family.
- Introduced in 1967: The Century was introduced in 1967 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Toyota’s founder, Sakichi Toyoda.
- Hand-Built: Much of the assembly is hand-crafted, with extreme attention to detail.
- V12 Engine (Previous Models): The second generation, produced from 1997 to 2017, was the only Japanese production car equipped with a V12 engine.
- Hybrid V8 Engine: The current generation (third) features a 5.0L V8 hybrid engine.
- Name Origin: The name “Century” refers to the car’s association with history and prestige.
- Wool Upholstery: Unlike most luxury cars, the Century often comes with wool upholstery instead of leather for better comfort in Japan’s humid climate.
- Curtains for Privacy: It comes with traditional rear curtains for privacy, a rare feature in modern cars.
- Limited Availability: The Toyota Century is sold primarily in Japan and is not exported officially.
- Emperor’s Choice: It has been the preferred car of the Japanese Emperor and Prime Minister.
- Silent Operation: The Century is engineered for a quiet ride, with extensive soundproofing materials used throughout.
- Special Chauffeur Training: Toyota provides special training for chauffeurs of the Century to ensure smooth driving for its VIP passengers.
- Kumi Wood Trim: The wood used in the interior is kumi wood, sourced specifically for its fine grain.
- Paint Job: The paint process for the Century takes up to 12 weeks to ensure a flawless, mirror-like finish.
- Phoenix Badge: The car’s emblem is a golden phoenix, symbolizing majesty and immortality.
- Not Branded as a Lexus: Even though Toyota owns Lexus, the Century is not branded as one, as it holds a separate status.
- Reclining Rear Seats: The rear seats can recline to a nearly flat position, with an ottoman for ultimate comfort.
- Rear Entertainment System: The back seat comes with advanced entertainment options, including an integrated massage feature.
- Conservative Design: The car retains a traditional and understated design, reflecting Japan’s cultural preference for subtle luxury.
- Minimal Production: Only a few hundred units are produced each year, making it a rare car.
- Toyota Century Price: The Toyota Century starts at around $180,000, and customized versions can cost significantly more.
- Limo Version: There is a longer-wheelbase limo version for high-ranking officials.
- Classic Analog Features: Despite its luxury, some parts of the car, like the dashboard clock, retain an analog design for tradition.
- No Advertising: Toyota does not advertise the Century; it’s a vehicle known through prestige and word of mouth.
- Special Tires: It uses tires specifically engineered for low noise and maximum comfort.
- Hidden Tech Features: Although it looks conservative, it is packed with advanced technology, including adaptive cruise control and advanced safety systems.
- Solar Glass: The Century has glass with solar insulation to keep the cabin cool and reduce UV exposure.
- Heavily Armored Versions: Toyota offers factory-built armored versions of the Century for special government and VIP use.
- Exclusive Dealerships: Only select dealerships in Japan are allowed to sell the Century.