The 1979 Toyota Cressida represents the final model year of the first-generation (X-30-generation) Cressida, serving as Toyota's flagship mid-size luxury sedan before the introduction of the Lexus brand. Known as the Toyota Mark II in Japan, it stood out in North America for bringing upscale refinement, a smooth inline-six engine, and pioneering electronic fuel injection to the Japanese import market.
The 1979 model combined classic 1970s American-influenced styling with legendary Japanese build quality. It was highly praised for its premium interior amenities, which were considered advanced for a standard consumer sedan at the time:
- Body Styles: Available primarily as a four-door sedan or a five-door station wagon in Western markets.
- Luxury Amenities: Standard or optional features included plush velour upholstery, air conditioning with climate control, power windows, power locks, a woodgrain-accented steering wheel, and an illuminated entry system.
- Safety & Handling: Power-assisted front disc brakes came standard, alongside a remote-adjustable driver's side mirror.
While it was viewed as a conservative, "couch-on-wheels" commuter car in 1979, the X30-generation Cressida has since become a cult classic.
- Drifting & Tuning: Because of its sturdy rear-wheel-drive layout and spacious engine bay, modern automotive enthusiasts frequently use them for "restomod" projects, often swapping in legendary Toyota sports engines like the 1JZ or 2JZ.
- Reliability: Reviewers often note that the Cressida was significantly lighter than modern cars, meaning its low-horsepower inline-6 still feels torquey and capable of keeping up with modern highway traffic smoothly.
This all original car has been a part of the Duncan Imports collection since 2018.
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