Toyota Century 1st Gen

The first-generation Toyota Century debuted in 1967 and remained in production for 30 years with only minor updates. It was Toyota's flagship, serving as Japan's premier chauffeured limousine for executives and government officials. Built with a focus on silent, smooth operation rather than outright performance, it was powered exclusively by a series of V8 engines, starting with a 3.0L and ending with a 4.0L fuel-injected unit in 1982.

The Century's appeal comes from its unique status as the "Japanese Rolls-Royce." Its conservative styling, hand-finished details, and opulent interior features like wool cloth upholstery and lace curtains set it apart from any other classic. With later models now eligible for import into the U.S. under the 25-year rule, collectors are discovering a durable and distinctive luxury car that offers an experience unlike its European rivals.

The market for the first-gen Century is still maturing. With an average sale price under $13,000, it's an accessible classic. Condition and mileage create a wide value gap, with tired examples selling for as little as $6,000, while pristine, low-mileage cars from the 1990s can command prices up to $45,000. As more enthusiasts discover them, prices for the best examples will likely continue to rise.

Prices for the first-generation Century range from $6,101 for project-quality cars to $45,000 for pristine, low-mileage examples.