1997 Toyota Century II (G50) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Toyota Century II ranges between 1990 and 2070 kg (approximately 4387 to 4564 lbs). This weight supports a solid, stable ride quality typical of luxury sedans. The heavier weight combined with advanced suspension tuning offers smooth handling and a composed ride, though it may impact fuel efficiency and acceleration compared to lighter vehicles.

The Toyota Century II offers a luggage capacity of 500 liters (about 17.7 cubic feet). This generous trunk space is sufficient for typical luxury sedan usage, allowing passengers to comfortably store luggage or other items during travel, fitting suitcases and larger bags with ease while maintaining an uncluttered and premium cabin environment.

The ground clearance of the Toyota Century II is 135 mm (5.3 inches). This ride height is typical for a luxury sedan, providing a balance between a smooth, low center of gravity for handling and enough clearance to navigate typical urban and suburban road conditions without difficulty, although it may be less suited for rough terrain or unpaved roads.

Yes, the Toyota Century II uses 7J x 16 rims paired with 225/60 R16 tires. These moderately sized wheels and relatively tall sidewall tires contribute significantly to ride comfort by absorbing road imperfections better than low-profile tires. Furthermore, the tire width and aspect ratio provide sufficient road grip, ensuring stability and confidence on wet and dry surfaces alike.

The Toyota Century II, measuring 5270 mm (207.5 inches) in length and 1890 mm (74.4 inches) in width, presents a large footprint that demands a spacious garage. Standard residential garages typically measure about 2400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 6000 mm (236 inches) deep. While the Century II can fit in length, the width may be tight for some single-car garages, but it is generally accommodated in standard double garages or larger. Homeowners should verify garage dimensions before parking the Century II to ensure convenient fit without risking damage.

The Toyota Century II (G50) is larger than its predecessor, the Century I (G40). The G50 model increased in length, width, and height to enhance interior space and ride quality. While the G40 was already a large sedan known for luxury and comfort, the G50's extended dimensions (length of 5270 mm vs. shorter lengths in G40) allowed for better passenger accommodations and a more imposing road presence. These size increases reflected Toyota's intent to maintain the Century's premier luxury status by adapting to evolving customer expectations and luxury standards.

Compared to other luxury sedans from the late 1990s to 2010s, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 7 Series, the Toyota Century II is similar or slightly larger in length and width. Its 5270 mm length and 1890 mm width offer a spacious interior aligning with top-tier full-size luxury sedans. However, the Century is distinct for prioritizing rear passenger comfort, emphasizing a limousine-like experience often found in Japan's executive transport market. While other luxury sedans focus on a balance of driver and passenger ergonomics, the Century uniquely leans towards rear occupant luxury. Ground clearance and tire sizes also reinforce its focus on comfort over sporty handling, distinguishing it within this segment.

The Toyota Century II was renowned for its traditional Japanese luxury philosophy, combining understated elegance with advanced features. Manufactured from 1997 to 2017, it was powered by a V8 engine designed for smooth, quiet performance rather than outright speed. The car emphasized rear passenger comfort with plush interiors, sophisticated air suspension, and luxury amenities. Throughout its long production run, the Century II remained a symbol of status in Japan, widely used by executives, government officials, and dignitaries. Despite its conservative styling, it incorporated modern safety and comfort technologies progressively over the years.

Maintaining a luxury sedan like the Toyota Century II requires attention to its specialized components and weight. Regular servicing of suspension systems, especially the air suspension, is crucial to maintain ride comfort. The V8 engine demands routine oil changes, cooling system checks, and timely belt replacements to ensure longevity. Due to its size and weight (1990-2070 kg), brakes and tires experience considerable wear and must be inspected and replaced as needed. Additionally, maintaining the plush interior with genuine leather and wood trim requires appropriate care to preserve its luxury appeal. Access to original parts may become more limited with the car’s age, so planning for servicing with certified specialists is advisable.