V12 Engine Toyota Century: Power, Prestige, and Legacy in One Iconic SUV

The Toyota Century stands as a symbol of Japanese automotive excellence, and its rare V12 engine variant elevates this grand touring icon to legendary status—where raw power meets refined elegance.

The V12 engine in the Toyota Century delivers a commanding presence with smooth, high-torque output, blending effortless acceleration with precise handling. Designed for long-distance luxury driving, this engine transforms the Century into a dynamic force on highways and winding roads alike, showcasing Toyota’s mastery of high-performance engineering.

Beyond raw power, the V12-powered Century reflects Toyota’s commitment to premium craftsmanship. Inside, hand-stitched leather, ambient lighting, and intuitive technology meld with a robust V12 foundation, creating a cabin that balances comfort and sophistication—proving that performance and luxury can coexist seamlessly.

As one of the last true grand tourers in the Toyota portfolio, the V12 engine variant of the Century honors decades of automotive heritage. Limited in production and revered by enthusiasts, it represents a bridge between the golden era of luxury sedans and modern-day engineering precision—making it a must-discover for collectors and driving purists.

The V12 engine in the Toyota Century is more than a mechanical marvel—it’s a statement of passion, precision, and timeless design. For those who seek both performance and prestige, this rare variant redefines what a luxury SUV can be. Experience the fusion of power and elegance—step behind the wheel of the Toyota Century’s V12 and feel the difference.

The second generation was only installed with a Toyota-designed and -built V12, an engine bespoke to the Century, until 2018, when the power-train reverted to a V8 with the addition of Toyota's hybrid technology. The car that broke Toyota's own mold was the 1997. Discover the secrets behind Toyota's only mass-produced V12 engine, the 1GZ-FE.

This smooth, powerhouse powered the exclusive second. Back in the late 1990s, Toyota made a single V12 car that was to be the absolute pinnacle of luxury and comfort. Here's everything we know about it.

Why is the Toyota Century V12 so rare? The Toyota Century V12 (GZG50, 1997-2016) was built in limited numbers-around 9,500 units total. It was primarily reserved for executives and officials in Japan, with only a few ever exported. Its exclusivity and Toyota's only V12 engine make it extremely rare.

The Toyota Century was to be its name, and its luxury appointments, ride quality, and sturdy underpinnings were unlike anything we had seen from the established brand. This 1997 is the second iteration of the chassis, and comes with Japan's only domestically produced V12 engine. The GZG50 generation of the Toyota Century, launched in 1997 and produced until 2017, is particularly remarkable because it features the only V12 engine ever mass-produced in Japan.

It is a 5.0-liter V12 (engine code 1GZ-FE), developing approximately 280 hp (206 kW) and 460 Nm of torque. The heart of the Toyota Century V12 lies in its legendary 5.0-liter V12 engine, codenamed the 1GZ. Toyota's second-gen Century houses the only V12 to ever come from Japan.

It's a timeless classic with quiet authority, not flash. The second generation Century, available from 1997 to 2017, had a unique engine never seen in a Japanese production car. A 5.0-liter V-12, the 1GZ.