SPOTLIGHT: Ken's VIP Century

When you think of a V12-powered, rear-drive saloon, your immediate thoughts will turn to the world of German Uberwagens. You know the sort: turbocharged, a price tag WELL into the 6-figure mark, and enough power to comfortably sit on the Autobahn at 150mph without even breaking a sweat.

What you don’t necessarily think of is a luxury Japanese car…

This is a Toyota Century. Never heard of one? They’re BIG in Japan – not just figuratively, but also literally. Aside from being the taxi driver’s choice, the Century is a top-of-the-line model designed specifically for those very important people who live their lives being driven, rather than doing the actual driving. It sounds cliche, but they’re the Japanese answer to Rolls-Royce.

It’s not hard to see why, either. Big V12 engine up front, monstrous 4-door chassis and a ride quality reminiscent of Aladdin’s magic carpet ride. What’s not to love about it? Well, the ride height for one… but that’s why Air Lift Performance exists after all!

Ken – the proud owner of this Century – thought exactly the same thing, and after buying the car in Japan and shipping it over to Canada, he’d already massed the relevant Air Lift Performance parts required to nail its stance.

With a few key modifications, he’s created one of the coolest luxury saloons we’ve ever seen. Everything about this build looks perfect, from the metallic brown paintwork to the 20in. Enkei wheels. On paper, it really shouldn’t work, but as a complete package, it’s all kinds of JDM cool.

Big V12 engine, big four-door chassis, and a ride quality absolutely second-to-none. What’s not to love?

Oh, and did we mention it boasts a proper telephone, TV and even a Toyota-branded fax machine in the back? That’s the kind of 90s luxury only a Century can deliver. We can only begin to imagine what kind of business was conducted while on the move.

For more pictures and information on Ken’s Air Lift-equipped Century, check out the following Speedhunters article:  http://www.speedhunters.com/2018/10/a-japanese-limo-lost-in-canada/