Used Toyota Century Buying Guide in KSA

Is Toyota Century A Good Choice as A Used Car?

The Toyota Century is a luxury sedan renowned for its understated elegance, ultra-smooth ride, and reliability. Originally designed to cater to Japan’s elite, this flagship vehicle combines classic aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. For car buyers in Saudi Arabia (KSA) considering a used Toyota Century, the question is: does it live up to the hype?

In short, the Toyota Century is a good choice as a used car for buyers who appreciate luxury, exclusivity, and long-lasting performance. However, due to its limited availability outside Japan, you’ll need to carefully evaluate which generation suits your needs best. This article is designed to help readers understand the different generations of the Toyota Century and determine which is the best option to purchase in the KSA used car market.

Specification Comparison

Below is a comparison table of Toyota Century generations, sorted by year, focusing on specifications that matter most to car buyers in KSA.

Generation-Based Breakdown

1st Generation (1967–1997)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Iconic, classic design that appeals to vintage car enthusiasts.
• Reliable V8 engine with a smooth driving experience.
• Spacious interiors with elegant wood trim.

Cons:

• Outdated technology compared to modern standards.
• Limited availability of spare parts, especially in KSA.
• Not fuel-efficient for today's standards.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

• First luxury sedan by Toyota targeted at high-ranking officials.
• Spacious interior with high-quality materials such as wood and leather.
• Focus on providing a smooth and quiet ride.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

• 3.0L V8 Engine: ~8–10 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

• Age-related wear and tear, including rust and outdated electrical systems.
• Limited availability of replacement parts outside Japan.

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View Toyota Century 1975 1975 Toyota Century

Overview

The 1st Generation Toyota Century is a vintage car that holds sentimental and historical value. While it offers a smooth and luxurious ride, its outdated features and fuel inefficiency make it less ideal for daily use in KSA. This generation appeals most to collectors rather than regular car buyers.

2nd Generation (1997–2017)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• A significant upgrade in luxury and refinement.
• Extremely quiet and smooth ride due to advanced soundproofing.
• High-quality materials and craftsmanship.

Cons:

• Poor fuel economy, especially for its V12 engine.
• Expensive to maintain due to limited spare parts in KSA.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

• Introduction of the 5.0L V12 engine, exclusive to Toyota Century.
• Advanced soundproofing technologies for a whisper-quiet cabin.
• Premium leather upholstery and enhanced wood trim.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

• 5.0L V12 Engine: ~7–9 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

• High maintenance costs for the V12 engine.
• Limited availability of hybrid options in this generation.

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View Toyota Century 2010 2010 Toyota Century

Overview

The 2nd Generation Toyota Century is a true luxury sedan that combines elegance with cutting-edge engineering. Its V12 engine delivers unmatched smoothness and power, but poor fuel economy and high maintenance costs may deter some buyers in KSA. Ideal for those prioritizing luxury over affordability.

3rd Generation (2018–Present)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Hybrid drivetrain offers excellent fuel economy.
• Modern features like Apple CarPlay, massage seats, and advanced safety systems.
• Enhanced reliability and reduced maintenance costs.

Cons:

• Limited availability in the KSA market due to its exclusivity.
• Price may still be on the higher side, even as a used model.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

• Hybrid system combining a 5.0L V8 engine and electric motor.
• Advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
• Rear passenger massage seats and touchscreen controls for added comfort.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

• 5.0L Hybrid V8 + Electric Motor: ~13–15 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

• No significant issues reported; highly reliable overall.

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View Toyota Century 2019 2019 Toyota Century

Overview

The 3rd Generation Toyota Century is the most suitable option for KSA buyers seeking a luxury sedan with modern features and excellent fuel efficiency. The hybrid drivetrain makes it an eco-friendly choice, while advanced safety and comfort technologies ensure a premium driving experience.

Conclusion

For KSA buyers, the 3rd Generation Toyota Century (2018–Present) stands out as the best value for money. Its hybrid drivetrain, modern features, and reliability make it the ideal choice for those seeking both luxury and practicality. While the 2nd Generation offers unmatched elegance, its poor fuel economy and high maintenance costs make it less appealing for everyday use. The 1st Generation, though historically significant, is best suited for collectors.

Alternatives

If the Toyota Century doesn’t meet your needs, consider these competitors:

• Lexus LS 600h: Hybrid luxury sedan with modern features and strong reliability.
• Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Offers cutting-edge technology and prestige.
• BMW 7 Series: Combines luxury with sporty driving dynamics.

These models provide similar luxury and comfort, tailored to diverse preferences in KSA.

Tips Before Purchasing

1. Inspect for Maintenance Records: Ensure the car has a history of regular maintenance, especially for older generations.
2. Check Spare Parts Availability: Verify if parts for the model are accessible in KSA to avoid future headaches.
3. Hybrid Battery Condition: For 3rd Generation models, inspect the hybrid battery’s health to ensure optimal performance.
4. Test Drive: Evaluate the ride quality, engine performance, and interior comfort during a test drive.
5. Professional Inspection: Hire a trusted mechanic to perform a thorough check before finalizing your purchase.

By following these tips, you can confidently purchase a used Toyota Century in KSA and enjoy the luxury and reliability it offers.