Was the Toyota Century sold in the US?
No, the Toyota Century was not sold in the United States. The Toyota Century is a luxury sedan that has been produced by Toyota exclusively for the Japanese domestic market since 1967. It is Toyota's flagship model and is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, but it has never been officially exported or sold outside of Japan.
About the Toyota Century
The Toyota Century is a full-size luxury sedan that has been produced by Toyota since 1967. It is Toyota's most prestigious and expensive model, designed to compete with other high-end luxury cars like the Lexus LS, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and BMW 7 Series. The Century is known for its traditional Japanese design, with a distinctive chrome grille and elegant, understated styling.
Under the hood, the Century is powered by a V12 engine, which was a rarity for a Japanese domestic market car. This powerful engine, combined with the car's luxurious interior and attention to detail, has made the Century a status symbol in Japan.
Why Wasn't the Century Sold in the US?
- Limited Production and Exclusivity: The Toyota Century has always been produced in very limited numbers, with only a few thousand units made each year. This exclusivity was part of the car's appeal in Japan, and Toyota likely wanted to maintain that image by not exporting it globally.
- Lack of Demand: The high price and traditional Japanese design of the Century meant it likely would not have had strong appeal or demand in the US market, where larger, more ostentatious luxury cars were more popular.
- Regulatory Challenges: Importing the Century to the US would have required it to meet various safety and emissions regulations, which could have been costly and complicated for Toyota.
While the Toyota Century has never been officially sold in the United States, it has developed a cult following among enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its unique blend of luxury, craftsmanship, and Japanese heritage. However, the car's limited availability and high cost have kept it out of the reach of most American consumers.
