straight from wikipedia:



[edit] 2nd Generation
Second generation

Production 1997–
Body style(s) 4-door sedan
Layout FR layout
Engine(s) 5.0 L-V12, 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW)
Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase 119.1 in (3025 mm)
Length 207.5 in (5270 mm)
Width 74.4 in (1890 mm)
Height 58.1 in (1475 mm)
Curb weight 4393 lb (1990 kg)
The Century received a complete redesign in 1997, although the new model was visually very similar to the old. This current model is powered by a 280 PS (276 hp/206 kW) 5.0 L 1GZ-FE V12, initially with a 4-speed automatic, and then a 6-speed "intelligent" transmission. It also features air suspension and a factory LPG gas option, enabling the 2-ton car to be classed as a low emission vehicle (edit* LPG option could not be confirmed from Toyota). The Century remains the first and only Japanese front-engine, rear-wheel drive production car equipped with a V12.

The Century was Toyota's most luxurious model at its inception in 1967, and maintained this status throughout the 20th century. Today, it is placed above most of the Lexus lineup in Japan, and remains the most luxurious and expensive model to wear the Toyota badge. The Century is distinguished by different color options than the rest of the Toyota lineup.

Like other cars in the top of the luxury class, the Century is designed with a chauffeur in mind. Hence, the rear seats recline and the front passenger seat has a fold-down center section so that a passenger in the back may stretch his feet forward. The exterior door handles open the doors electrically since the sound of the door being opened mechanically is perceived as being "too obtrusive". The doors do not need to be closed directly, instead the door only needs to contact the latch, causing the door to pull itself completely closed electrically.

The vehicles interior is usually ordered in cloth, not leather, due to the aroma of leather being less desirable and not as quiet as cloth when sat on. The vehicle can be ordered in any color the purchaser desires, however, the favorite colors are usually medium brown, burgundy or royal blue with black exterior paint. White lace curtains are usually installed in the rear window, instead of tinted windows, which are perceived to attract unwarranted attention. The passengers usually like to be seen in a Century, despite Asian tendencies for modesty.

The Century is priced at ¥11,130,000 or approximately US$94,500 (as of 2007). In comparison, the base price for the ultra-luxury 2008 Lexus LS 460 is approximately ¥10,000,000 (US$87,000), [1] with the LS 600h L at ¥15,000,000 (US$125,800).

Although the Century is not exported outside Japan in large numbers, it is used frequently by officials stationed in overseas Japanese offices.

In contrast to other luxurious cars (such as the Maybach or a Rolls Royce), the Century has not been positioned and marketed as a sign of wealth or excess. Instead, the Century projects an image of conservative achievement. Marketing literature states roughly that, "the Century is acquired through persistent work, the kind that is done in a plain but formal suit." This image drove a good deal of the 2nd generation design as a traditional and tasteful update of the original.


[edit] Chassis codes
GZG50: 5.0 L 1GZ-FE V12