Introduction: Toyota Century GZG50 V12 — A Quiet Legend

The Toyota Century is based on the Lexus LS400 chassis and uses a lot of similar suspension components. The Century is a much longer vehicle and uses a unique air suspension system unlike any other Toyota or Lexus. The Century rides more like a high end British or European 6-digit luxury car. Whoever was in charge of creating those magnificent air shocks and their ride qualities is a genius.

The brutal truth though is the Century puts the LS400, LS430, and LS460 to shame in the ride quality and comfort department. The interior is usually fitted with wool fabric. Yes, that’s right wool, like a sheep.

Add that the G50 Century is the only Japanese production car with a front-engine, AWD V12, the 1GZ-FE, making it unique in automotive history Wikipedia. Over its ~19-year run, around 9,573 units were built Wikipedia—extremely limited, boosting its desirability.

The 1GZ-FE V12 delivers 280 PS (Japan) and up to 220 kW (export), with 460 Nm of torque, paired with advanced suspension and air-shocks

What Is the Toyota Century?

The Toyota Century is not your typical Japanese luxury sedan. Built primarily for executives, politicians, and even the Imperial household, the Century represented the pinnacle of Toyota engineering and craftsmanship. Unlike the Lexus LS—which was marketed for export—the Century was never sold outside Japan in significant numbers.

The second generation, known as the GZG50 Century (1997–2016), stands out because of its engine. It was the only Japanese production car ever fitted with a V12: the legendary 1GZ-FE, a 5.0L DOHC, 48-valve masterpiece delivering smooth, quiet power. Toyota limited its rating to around 280 PS to align with Japan’s “gentleman’s agreement” on horsepower, but the engine was capable of far more.

Beyond performance, Toyota built the Century with subtle elegance. Its design barely changed across two decades, favoring timeless dignity over flashy styling. Every car received hand-painted bodywork, a hand-carved phoenix grille emblem, and interiors lined with fine wool upholstery instead of leather. Why wool? Because Toyota engineers believed it provided quieter comfort and better temperature regulation—small details that reveal the Century’s obsessive attention to refinement.

In short, the GZG50 Century wasn’t just a luxury car. It was a cultural statement about Japanese craftsmanship, tradition, and understated prestige.

Why the Century Is So Rare?

Between 1997 and 2016, Toyota produced only about 9,500 units of the GZG50 Century. Many remained in Japan, serving as chauffeur vehicles for top officials. Only a handful ever left the country—fewer than 100 in left-hand drive configuration, sent mainly to the Middle East and parts of Europe.

This scarcity alone makes the Century V12 highly collectible. Add in the fact that it’s Toyota’s one and only V12 engine, and the car becomes a true piece of automotive history.

The Century also avoided the aggressive depreciation that hit many luxury cars of its era. Because it was so exclusive, values have remained strong. Now that these cars are old enough to qualify under the 25-Year Import Rule in the U.S., interest has skyrocketed. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are eager to experience a side of Toyota that was once reserved only for Japan’s elite.

Engineering & Craftsmanship

The GZG50 was more than just its V12. Underneath, it featured advanced technologies and an emphasis on comfort:

• 1GZ-FE V12 Engine – 5.0L, DOHC, 48 valves, producing ~280 PS and 460 Nm of torque.
• Air Suspension – self-leveling system for a cloud-like ride.
• Double-glazed windows – to reduce noise and enhance insulation.
• Hand-built interiors – from wool seats to lacquered wood trim.
• Rear passenger focus – controls for audio, climate, and even massaging seats in later years.

Every Century left the factory as if it were made for royalty—because, in many cases, it literally was. The Japanese Imperial family even had their own exclusive Century Royal edition, featuring bespoke washi-paper headliners and granite trim.

Parts Sourcing for the 1997–2016 GZG50 Century V12

Here! TaninJDM of course. We have direct links to all parts sources in Japan. Since the Toyota Century was largely unchanged from 1997 through 2016 all parts are still fully available. We also provide service and repair for the Century. Again, we are subject matter experts in all Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

While replacing air suspension may cost thousands, Toyota’s consistent 1997–2016 design means sourcing parts from Japan is still viable via specialists like us.

Parts & Maintenance: Easier Than You Think

A common concern with rare imports is parts availability. While the Century is indeed unique, the 1997–2016 GZG50 remained largely unchanged for nearly two decades. That means Toyota continued producing compatible parts for a very long time, making sourcing easier than for many other JDM classics.

Certain components, like the air suspension system, can be expensive to replace—sometimes thousands of dollars. However, routine maintenance items such as filters, belts, and ignition components are straightforward. The 1GZ-FE shares design similarities with Toyota’s UZ-series V8s, and some parts can be cross-sourced or even rebuilt locally.

Here at Tanin JDM, we specialize in locating both new and used Century parts directly from Japan. Whether it’s suspension components, electronics, or trim, our expertise ensures owners don’t have to worry about keeping their Century on the road.

How to Import a Toyota Century V12: Cost, Shipping & Regulations

We handle the complete import process. Check our our most recent 2000 Toyota Century. This is the type of quality we look for. We don’t bring examples that have corrosion or rust. You can learn more about our importing process at our JDM vehicle search and purchase down payment deposit

Bringing a Toyota Century into the United States or another country can feel daunting, but the process is more straightforward than many assume. Thanks to the 25-Year Rule, every GZG50 model from 1997 onward is now legal to import.

The steps generally include:

1. Vehicle Sourcing – Finding the right Century in Japan through trusted auction houses or private sellers.
2. Inspection & Shipping – Ensuring the car is rust-free and in solid condition, then arranging container or Ro-Ro shipping.
3. Customs Clearance – Handling paperwork, duties, and EPA/DOT compliance where applicable.
4. Delivery & Registration – Once the car lands, it’s registered and ready for U.S. roads.

At Tanin JDM, we handle the entire process for our clients—from searching and buying to delivery—so enthusiasts can focus on enjoying their new V12 limousine.

Driving & Riding Experience of the GZG50 Century V12

Check out the full exterior, interior review, and test drive of our 2000 Toyota Century. Here we talk about the unbelievable features, interior quirks, and how it feels to drive the Century.

Driving a Century isn’t about speed—it’s about serenity. The V12 delivers effortless power, but it does so almost silently, prioritizing smoothness over raw performance. Behind the wheel, the car feels heavy yet refined, with steering tuned for comfort rather than sharpness.

The real magic happens in the back seat. Passengers enjoy limousine-level legroom, reclining seats, and some of the quietest cabins ever built. Many owners describe the experience as “riding on a cloud.” Even compared to European luxury sedans like the Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7-Series of its time, the Century feels more discreet, more personal, and—true to Japanese tradition—more humble.

Ownership Experience & Collectibility

Owning a Toyota Century is unlike owning any other car. It isn’t just transportation; it’s a conversation piece, a piece of Japanese history, and a rare collectible that continues to appreciate in value.

Collectors love it because:

• It’s Toyota’s only V12.
• It’s extremely limited in production.
• It has cultural and historical significance in Japan.
• It delivers an ownership experience that rivals Rolls-Royce and Bentley, but with Toyota reliability.

While maintenance costs can be higher than your average Toyota, the payoff is owning a vehicle that stands alone in the automotive world.

Ownership Experience & Collectability

The Toyota Century GZG50 V12 (1997–2016) is more than just a car—it’s a cultural artifact. Hand-built, ultra-rare, and powered by the only Japanese production V12 ever made, it remains one of the most coveted JDM imports today. Whether admired for its engineering, respected for its prestige, or desired as a unique collectible, the Century continues to stand as Toyota’s ultimate flagship.

Interested in owning one? Browse our cars for sale and buy your JDM car today. Contact us if you want something special and unique.. Contact us at Tanin JDM to begin your search for a Toyota Century V12.