1997 Toyota Cresta Exceed G 2.5: A Unique Find at the Junkyard
It’s not every day that you come across a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle in an American junkyard. However, my recent visit to a self-service car graveyard near Denver proved to be an exception. Word had spread among local junkyard enthusiasts that a final-generation Cresta had made its appearance, and I wasted no time in heading over to investigate.
What made this find even more intriguing was the fact that U-Pull-&-Pay’s inventory system listed the car under the name of its closest U.S.-market relative – the Cressida. The Cressida, which was sold in the United States until the 1992 model year, was actually based on the Cresta-sibling Toyota Mark II.
For years, Japanese Toyota shoppers had the option of choosing between three trim levels of the same midsize rear-wheel-drive sedan: the entry-level Mark II, the high-performance Chaser, and the luxurious Cresta. The final generation of these cars was produced between 1996 and 2001, after which the Cresta was replaced by the Verossa. These cars were not sold in the United States, possibly due to their potential competition with the Lexus LS and Toyota’s focus on SUVs in the American market.
The Cresta I stumbled upon at the junkyard happened to be a G Package model, which boasted numerous comfort and convenience upgrades. Unfortunately, it had suffered a severe crash, rendering it unrecognizably bent out of shape. Nevertheless, what caught my attention was the fact that the airbags had deployed correctly, keeping the cabin intact and highlighting the car’s strong body structure. Let’s hope that all occupants were wearing their seat belts.
Underneath its damaged exterior, the Cresta was powered by a 2.5-liter 1JZ straight-six engine, delivering a respectable 197 horsepower. While it seems that this generation of Cresta could be equipped with a manual transmission, it was only available with the base 2.0-liter engine.
Interestingly, the final owner of this Cresta had opted to swap out the original wheels and replace them with 18″ Lexus wheels, fitted with low-profile rubber. This modification added a touch of style to the car’s overall appearance.
Comparing the Cresta to its U.S. counterparts, it becomes evident that they share very little in common. However, there is a possibility that some of the unmashed mechanical components could be compatible with a Lexus SC or a late model Cressida. Additionally, the cloth interior of this particular Cresta looked remarkably well-maintained, raising hopes that another local Cresta owner might salvage it for their own vehicle.
For fans of anime, this generation of Cresta holds a special place in their hearts. It was prominently featured in the “Great Teacher Onizuka” series, which aired over a quarter-century ago. The Cresta’s appearance in such a popular show further solidifies its status as an iconic JDM vehicle.
In terms of Toyota’s prestige pyramid in the late 1990s, the Cresta sat below the Crown and Celsior but was positioned above models like the Corona and Camry. Its unique blend of luxury and performance made it an appealing choice for Japanese buyers.
All in all, stumbling upon this 1997 Toyota Cresta Exceed G 2.5 at the junkyard was a rare and exciting find. While its current state may be disheartening, it serves as a reminder of the fascinating world of JDM vehicles and their enduring appeal. Who knows what other hidden gems await us in these self-service car graveyards?