The LX 450 combines rugged go-anywhere capability with class-leading luxury to create a rig that’s as home on backcountry trails as it is soaking up highway miles. This iconic 4WD is underpinned by Toyota’s bulletproof Land Cruiser J80 which offers the same class-leading reliability, capability, and workhorse credentials but with the added bonus of Lexus’ legendary refinement and luxury. If you’re still not convinced, then I’d recommend reading through the verified owner reviews on cars.com or edmunds.com, which provide page after page of five-star ratings and heartfelt messages. It’s therefore no surprise that they rarely come up for sale with just one previous 1997 Lexus LX 450 being featured on our classifieds. Today’s low-mileage (97,140 miles) example has been professionally overhauled and is just about as close to new mechanically as you’re going to find (check out the original listing linked below for full details.) The seller has worked hard to “retain as much of the factory look and feel of the LX 450 as possible,” so while this rig enjoys premium aftermarket modifications and accessories, they’re intentionally selective and low-key.
From the Seller:
“This is a venerable 1997 80-Series Land Cruiser, clad in Lexus badging and luxury while retaining all the mechanical advantages of the 80-Series chassis. It has been mechanically baselined by Gary Kardum at Mudrak in Sonoma, California, using only Toyota OEM parts except where noted as part of the moderate overlanding build. It has been meticulously maintained with no expense spared.
Over $20,000 has been invested in parts and materials alone with a focus on mechanical soundness, capability, and reliability. Only once I was satisfied with the mechanical did I turn toward increasing the usability for overlanding, making this particular LX 450 ready to pursue any adventure you might conjure up, near or far.”
1997 Lexus LX 450
The LX450 is fitted with a 4.5-liter motor that produces 212 horsepower, 275 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 13 mpg. An exceptionally long-lived engine and drivetrain are mated with impressive capability, thanks to a body-on-frame design, 4WD, high and low range, locking center differential, and more. Inside driver comforts include:
- Keyless entry
- Upgraded Pioneer head unit with Bluetooth and Infinity speakers
- Cruise control
- Air-conditioning
- Leather upholstery
- Powered and heated front seats
Distinguishing Features
- Old Man Emu suspension with 2.5-inch lift and Airlift rear airbags
- ARB front bumper
- Eezi-Awn K9 roof rack
- Viair 450C air compressor
- ARB dual drawer system
- Pro Comp LED lighting
- WeatherTech custom-fitted floor mats
This 1997 Lexus LX 450 is listed for $58,000 OBO and is currently located in northern California. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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