1987 Toyota Van
Specifications
| Year | 1987 |
| Mileage | 274,000 mi |
| Transmission | Auto |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Body Style | Van |
| Title Status | Clean |
| Exterior Color | Custom |
| Engine | 4 cylinders |
Owner's Pitch
"Vintage 1987 Toyota Van, a Southern California icon. Features a professionally rebuilt engine and transmission (at 220k) with OEM parts. Reliable daily driver for 20 years, rust-free, and passes smog easily. Perfect cargo hauler or camper conversion candidate. Recent tires and fuel pump. Own a bulletproof piece of Toyota history that still turns heads."
Contact Seller
Description
Overview: This 1987 Toyota Van has been a reliable daily driver in Downtown LA for the last 20 years. I purchased it in 2007 with 160,000 miles and have maintained it meticulously. It currently has 274,000 miles but drives excellently.
Mechanical Condition: The engine and transmission were rebuilt at 220,000 miles using all new Toyota OEM parts and VSVs. It runs and drives great, regularly handling trips to Orange County. It features a new fuel pump, new tires, and passes smog easily.
Interior and Body: The exterior features custom paint and the van is a regular sight in DTLA. The interior shows its age; it currently has only the two front seats as the rear seats were removed to create a large cargo area.
History and Sale: I have a clear California title and current registration. I am a highly skilled mechanic and have handled all maintenance, including oil changes and spark plugs, personally. Included in the sale are several new parts for minor remaining issues.
Market Highlights
- The Cult of the Space Van: In 2026, the market for 1980s Toyota Vans has transitioned from 'used car' to 'collectible asset.' Their unique mid-engine layout and legendary 4Y engine reliability make them highly desirable for urban enthusiasts and weekend campers alike.
- The Southern California Premium: Los Angeles is the epicenter for vintage JDM and Toyota culture. The lack of road salt preserves these chassis far better than in other regions, allowing 39-year-old vehicles to command prices that would be unthinkable in the Rust Belt.
- Mechanical Rebuild Value: A rebuilt drivetrain is the single most important factor for this model. Because engine access is through the interior seat-hatch, labor is intensive; having the engine and transmission already refreshed with OEM parts removes the biggest financial risk for a buyer.