Garry Small Saab Contributes To Saab Soundings
Collection

Photo: 1980 Saab Soundings Issue Volume 20Garry Small Saab of Portland, Oregon, whom I recently visited over the holidays contributes to the Saab Soundings collection in the growing Saab magazine archive. Their contribution consists of a super rare 1980 issue/ volume 20 that showcases what is known as the “Super Swedes”, both Bjorn Borg the [...]

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The Saab 900 Turbo Cabriolet Prototype - 1983

Photo Credit: Saab-Scania ABI have located the original photograph in my archives from the Frankfurt Motor Show that Saab used in their press release to showcase the original Saab 900 Turbo Cabriolet prototype in 1983. This vehicle was also featured in the Saab Olympics which took place in Los Angeles in 1984.Here is the caption [...]

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Winding Road Reviews 1986 Saab 900 Turbo
Convertible

Photo Credit: Mike Parris / Winding RoadWinding Road has recently reviewed the 1986 Saab 900 Turbo Convertible that is part of the Saab USA Heritage Collection which is managed and safely and securely stored at the GM Heritage Center.This vehicle marks the first year of the Saab 900 Convertible and is quite a nice review [...]

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>>Toyota Sequoia

Toyota Sequoia

Toyota Sequoia Manufacturer Toyota Motor Corporation Production 2000?present Assembly Princeton, Indiana Class Full-size SUV Body style(s) 4-door SUV Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive Related Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV built by Toyota and based on their Tundra pickup truck. Introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, it was slotted in price between the mid-size 4Runner and the Land Cruiser. The Sequoia was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2001. Also, it filled the gap when the Land Cruiser was dropped for the Canadian market in 1995. The Sequoia is built at Toyota's Princeton, Indiana truck assembly plant and is currently sold exclusively in the United States and Canada.

First Generation (2001-2007)

First generation Production 2001-2007 Engine(s) 4.7 L 240 hp V8 (2001)-(2004)
4.7 L 273 hp V8 with VVT-i (2005)-present Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic (2001-2004)
5-speed automatic (2005-present) Wheelbase 118.1 in (3000 mm) Length 203.9 in (5179 mm) Width 2001-02: 75.2 in (1910 mm)
2003-04: 78.0 in (1981 mm)
2005-07: 78.9 in (2004 mm) Height 75.8 in (1925 mm)
2001-04 SR5: 73.6 in (1869 mm) Fuel capacity 26.4 US gallons (99.9 L/22.0 imp gal)

The Sequoia was originally shown in car shows in 1999 and 2000, with full production starting in late 2000 as a 2001 model. Engine, driveline, and some sheetmetal components are shared with the Tundra, and shares the same basic chassis, with the exception of rear disc brakes and a more sophisticated multi-link live axle rear suspension. It received minor cosmetic updates for 2005 and gained a more powerful engine equipped with VVT-i, LED-backlit gauges, as well as a 5-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 4-speed. The Sequoia is slightly longer than the Land Cruiser, however, it is barely noticeable. At introduction it was larger than the Chevrolet Tahoe in most dimensions and similar in size to the Ford Expedition; its V8 engine was certified as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. Frame assemblies and driveshafts are produced by Dana Corporation.

2005 Toyota Sequoia Limited

The Sequoia comes in two trim levels; SR5 and Limited. The SR5 starts at $32,820 while the more expensive Limited starts at $41,855. It is sold in both four-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive versions.

Second Generation (2008-)

Second generation Production 2008-present Engine(s) 4.7L V8
5.7L V8 Transmission(s) 5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic Wheelbase 122.0 in (3099 mm) Length 205.1 in (5210 mm) Width 79.9 in (2029 mm) Height 74.6 in (1895 mm)

Toyota unveiled the 2008 Toyota Sequoia at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. It was designed to look more like it's platform counterpart, the Tundra. The model is based of the new Tundra, which was launched in February 2007. Improvements include an optional 381 horsepower 5.7 liter V8, optional power folding split third row seats, and larger dimensions in every area. The 2008 Sequoia comes in three trim lines: the SR5 and Limited, featured on the first generation, and the Platinum, which is new for Toyota. Pricing ranges from about $35,000 to $55,000 depending upon the trim line and configuration.

The base engine is the 4.7 liter 276 horsepower V8 featured on the previous generation, though a newer replacement may be in the works. The 4.7 liter is standard on the SR5, while the Limited and Platinum model comes standard with the new engine. Four wheel drive is available on all models.

The interior of the 2008 Sequoia has been completely redisigned, featured the new, somewhat controversial dash of the new Tundra. Typical options include DVD based navigation, a DVD entertainment system, and seat warmers/coolers in the front row and warmers in the second row, available in Platinum trim. The HVAC system includes sun sensors to appropriately adjust airflow for each side of the vehicle.

Seating arrangements are for seven or eight passengers, eight for SR5 and Limited models and seven for Platinum models. Power folding 60/40 split third row seats are available on the Platinum.

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>>Toyota Sera

Toyota Sera

Toyota Sera Manufacturer Toyota Production 1990-1995 Predecessor Toyota AXV-II Concept Class Sport compact Body style(s) 2-door coupe Platform FF layout Engine(s) 1.5L 5E-FHE I4
110/6,400 (ps/rpm) Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual Wheelbase 2300 mm (90.6 in) Length 3860 mm (152 in) Width 1650 mm (65 in) Height 1265 mm (49.8 in) Curb weight 930 kg (2050 lb) Related Toyota Tercel
Toyota Paseo
Toyota Starlet

The Toyota Sera was a two door coupe (2+2) built by Toyota solely for the Japanese market in the early 1990s, although enthusiasts in New Zealand, Bangladesh, India, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and the UK have since imported a handful of them. It was initially revealed as the Toyota AXV-II concept car in 1988, and was shown in almost production-ready form. The word Sera is a French word meaning "will be" which answers to the question why the car's design, shape and stock butterfly doors are so close to features of a concept car. The styling and layout of the car was actually beyond its time when it was actually put into production.

Sera

The Sera EXY-10 was available with a 1.5 L inline 4 engine. It came with either 4 speed automatic or a 5 speed manual transmission with Anti-Lock Braking system as an option. Only 15852 units were made between 1990 to 1996 and therefore, now becoming a rare collectible. The car is related to the Toyota Paseo, and shares similar floorpans, suspension, steering and brakes.

Toyota Sera's most distinctive feature is its butterfly doors, which open forward and up from the bottom and top of the A pillar (similar to the McLaren F1 and Saleen S7). The weight of the door is supported by a thick gas strut, but there is a balance system to help take into account changes in temperature inside the door. The door can be opened fully in a fairly confined space - only 43 cm clearance on either side of the car is needed, unlike the conventional doors on most cars.

The Sera came with an optional 'Live' surround sound system that included a pair of component speakers on the rear parcel tray, mounted in a tube that could rotate towards the passengers or the glass hatch. This premium sound package also included a small subwoofer as well as a centre speaker in the dash and is usually identified as "Super Live Surround Sound" or SLSS.

One drawback of the car is the large amount of glass that can create a solar load greenhouse effect inside the car causing interior temperatures to rise. All Seras came as standard with air conditioning to offset this problem. The advantage to the glass design is that occupants have excellent all-round visibility in contrast to most small coupes. Due to the overwhelming amount of glass, the vehicle body is not very rigid. This lack of rigidity affects the handling characteristics with body roll, although some of this behaviour can often be attributed to the age of the cars ? a new original suspension is actually quite competent, although still somewhat at odds with the sporting image the car has acquired outside of Japan. Another disappointing feature is the small opening for the rear cargo area: measuring only 52 cm by 82cm. This boot (trunk) space is large enough to fit a small suitcase, but the rear seats fold down to increase storage area to an acceptable level, and the division between the rear seats and luggage area is removable. Ultimately the Sera is a practical design given its compact size.

The Toyota Sera was produced in three distinct versions, each available with either manual or automatic transmissions, standard (two speakers, fitted to the doors) or SLSS audio, and a wide range of options. The factory SLSS system (Super Live Surround Sound) had a DSP system with 10 speakers: Front cone x 2 (10cm, IIRC), Front Tweeter x 2, Centre Speaker (10 cm again), rear cones and tweeters in a stylish tube on the parcel shelf at the rear which could be rotated to reflect off the rear window or aim directly into the car, along with a rear subwoofer of adequate capability.

Phase I

The initial build features beige/tan interior or greyish blue depending on exterior colour, a bayonet fuel filler cap, and a ribbed woven seat material that is very hardwearing. Most of the production was completed in this phase, around 12,000 of the total 15,852 or so cars produced, from launch in March 1990 to May 1991.

Phase II

Phase II was produced, identifiable by different seat materials featuring a pastel pattern in the main sections with tan/greyish bolsters depending on interior colour, and a screw-type fuel filler cap. Around 2,300 Phase II cars were produced between May 1991 and June 1992.

Phase III

The final version of the Sera features a grey interior with seat fabrics that have a secondary colour to complement the exterior colour, some engine component revisions, side impact beams in the doors, optional airbags (which may have been accompanied by ABS - an option on all Seras - and three-point rear seat belts), stronger door struts to compensate for the side impact beams, and the only external change to the Sera - a solid plastic spoiler with LED high-level brake light incorporated.

The Phase III Sera also featured a limited edition model, the Amlux, named after Toyota's flagship building in Tokyo. (The Toyota Amlux is the world's largest automobile showroom situated in Ikebukuro. It is in a one of a kind oval-shaped high rise building that glows purple at night, but with a curious matte-finish look, and flashing white stobes.)

The Sera special edition Amlux version were based upon the phase III automatic SERA with SLSS. Special features included:

? Two-tone green paint ? Special colour hubcaps ? Blue tinted glass ? Choice of 6 special colours of seat material designs ? Rear seat cover ? AMLUX logo on mats ? AMLUX logo on door ? Personalised name plate on the car ? Personalised seat custion and also a special scarf

Tuning

The engine is the 5E-FHE developing 110 PS (108 bhp), and this is the largest capacity derivation of the E series engines, and the most powerful of the normally aspirated versions. The Toyota Starlet GT Turbo or Glanza engine, codename 4E-FTE, develops 135 PS (133 bhp) as standard and has been successfully transplanted in a number of Seras in Japan, Australia and the UK. The Starlet Turbo can be tuned to give substantially more than released by Toyota. In order to achieve these levels of power (175-200 hp) it is necessary to make quite a number of changes - exchanging the intercooler for a larger version and relocating to the front bumper, a revised exhaust, a revised induction kit, plus a number of electronic devices to revise the fuelling and turbo boost safety points. Another option is to use the 4A-GE engine (black top with map sensor) which can produce around 165 hp (123 kW) giving the car a weight to power ratio of 5.63 kg/hp - in comparison the Mazda RX-8 has a weight to power ratio of 5.93 kg/hp (see Power-to-weight ratio). With a Standalone Engine Management System (EMS/ECU) and various other engine modifications, the 4A-GE can easily be made to produce around 200 hp (150 kW). With a T4 turbo, more than 230 horses. At least two cars in Japan claim to have 300 bhp (220 kW) and one in Australia with a claimed 290 bhp (216 kW). This is an expensive conversion as the engine and transmission have to be strengthened, cooling and fuel issues have to be solved as well as improvements to the brakes and handling.

Accessories and aftermarket exterior styling/parts

Optional accessories for the Sera at launch included an in car fax, "fragrance synthesizer", CleanACE cabin filter (relatively common - for an accessory. Many accessories are extremely rare), parking sensors, bodykits, ski-racks which attach to the doors, and a different set of seat covers and mats in a striking colour combination.

There are several designs of bodykit available for the Sera. They popular ones are made by G5 Speed Garage (Japan), Quest Power: Type-A (Japan), Cia Style Kit (UK), Andros rear bumper (Cyprus), X-Racing (Australia). Sera bodykits mainly include redesigned and grounded front bumpers, front splitters, Carbon Fibre bonnets, Wheelarch trims, Front bumper extensions, side skirts, rear spoilers, wide arch kits, headlamp eyelids and body mounted rear wings.

One criticism that can be leveled at the Sera is that the suspension is equipted with too soft springs for a sporting coupe. To compensate this problem, there is after a market handling package available, developed with the assistance of Leda Suspension. This gives the car a firmer and more sporting drive with less pronounced and more progressive body roll characteristics. The car is lowered slightly as well giving a more aggressive appearance. The kit contains: 1 pair of front dampers, 1 pair of front progressive rate springs, 1 pair of rear dampers, 1 pair of rear progressive rate springs.

Other features

Projector head light

The Sera/EXY-10 was one of the first cars to feature projector headlights (though the 1988 AXV-II concept model featured conventional lights). The Alfa Romeo Stradale is believed to be the first car to feature dihedral doors, which like the Sera, features windows that curve upward into the 'roof' section of the vehicle.

The Sera is still very well supported by Toyota for spares, and many UK dealers are happy to order parts and service the car.

In Australia, most Seras will have required three-point seatbelts and side impact beams to be fitted for compliance. There may be benefits to importing a later model to avoid this third-party work.

Present Status

Now, over a decade since the Sera was launched, the Sera is enjoying a renaissance in popularity, and is becoming recognised as a future classic. Over the past few months, prices of Seras in Japan have risen, not just because of demand from buyers intending to import the car from Japan, but also due to increasing demand for these cars in Japan.

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>>Toyota SA

Toyota SA

The SA was Toyota's first new passenger car design (as opposed to updating the AA) after World War II. It was the first in a family of vehicles before the introduction of the Crown. A series of light trucks also shared the chassis and major components of these passenger cars.

All of these vehicles were sold under the Toyopet name.

SA

SA Manufacturer Toyota Production 1947 to 1952 Assembly Japan Predecessor AE Successor SD Class large family car Body style(s) sedan Layout front-engine, rear-wheel drive Platform backbone chassis Engine(s) Type S Transmission(s) 3 speed manual Wheelbase 2400 mm Length 3800 mm Width 1590 mm Height 1530 mm Curb weight 1170 kg Related SB, SC Designer Dr Kazuo Kumabe

The SA was Toyota's first true post war design. It differed from all previous Toyota cars by having a 4 cylinder engine (previously a 6 cylinder was used), 4 wheel independent suspension (previously using rigid axles with leaf springs) and a smaller, aerodynamic body. The project was driven by Kiichiro Toyoda under the wisdom of his father's (Sakichi Toyoda) words, "Stay ahead of the times" but most of the design work was done by Dr Kazuo Kumabe.

The body was aerodynamic in a style similar to the Volkswagen Beetle. Only a two door sedan was made, making it unsuitable for the taxi market. The doors were arranged to open rearwards (often called suicide doors). The front window was a single pane of flat glass with a single wiper mounted above the driver. Only right hand drive was offered.

Toyota engineers (including Dr Kumabe) had visited Germany before World War II and had studied the 16 cylinder Auto Union racing car (independent suspension) and Porsche and Volkswagen designs (independent suspension, aerodynamic bodies, backbone chassis, rear mounted air cooled engines, economical production cost). Many Japanese companies had ties with Germany during the war years but most partnered with British or American companies after the war and thus used technologies commonly used in Britain or America. But Toyota did not partner with a foreign company, so it was free to use German designs. Many features of the prototype Beetle were subsequently put into the SA, although the Beetle's rear mounted air cooled engine feature was not used. Later on, Toyota revisited the economic principles exemplified by the Beetle when designing the Publica and the Corolla.

Dates and Production Figures

Although permission to begin full production of passenger cars in Japan was not granted until 1949, limited numbers of cars were permitted to be built from 1947, and the Toyota SA was one such car. Design work started at the end of 1945 when the GHQ let it be known that authorised commercial production of vehicles for the general public would be commencing soon. This model was introduced in January 1947, with a prototype (which had been under development for more than a year) being completed at that time.

Production occurred from October 1947 through May 1952 (overlapping with the 1949-introduced SD), with a total of only 215 being built. The first car to be produced by Toyota in the postwar period was the AC, which had first been produced in 1943-1944. Fifty were built for government and military use in 1947, and three more were assembled in 1948. Since only 54 cars were built by Toyota in 1947, this leaves four Model SA production cars to be built at the end of that year, not counting the prototype.

Eighteen SA cars were built in 1948, and from 1949-1952, 193 more were built. No breakdown exists between models after 1948; only yearly passenger-car grand totals are extant.

Mechanicals

This model introduced the Type S straight-4 water cooled engine, conventionally mounted in the front of the car and driving through the rear wheels. Two small grills at the front allowed air for the engine's radiator. Transmission was by a 3 speed manual gearbox and a Hotchkiss drive (previous Toyotas used a torque tube) to a rear mounted differential. The final drive gear ratio was 7.17:1 .

More unconventional was the use of a backbone chassis and four wheel independent suspension. A-arm suspension (short upper arm, long lower arm) with coils was used at the front and swing axle suspension with semi-trailing arms, Panhard rods and a transverse semi-elliptical leaf spring was used at the rear.

SB

SB Manufacturer Toyota Production 1947 to 1952 Assembly Japan Successor SG Class light truck Layout front-engine, rear-wheel drive Platform ladder frame Engine(s) Type S Transmission(s) 3 speed manual Wheelbase 2400 mm Length 3950 mm Width 1590 mm Height 1725 mm Curb weight 1125 kg Related SA, SC, BJ

A light truck using the running gear from the SA but with a ladder chassis and solid axles front and rear, both with semi-elliptical springs. The SB was popular with the general public and also with the American occupation forces, which ordered it in large numbers.

The SB was offered with commercial bodies only but many dealers and owners had sedan bodies made for them. Toyota contracted the Kanto Denki factory to produced a sedan body and wagon on the SB chassis as the SC. A small number of police cars were made by adding a special body with a canvas top, 4 canvas doors and a fold down front window for the Japanese Police Reserve Force but they were not popular.

The SB chassis was combined with the Type B engine, four wheel drive and a utilitarian body to make the Toyota BJ, which was later known as the Toyota Land Cruiser.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from 1947.

Mechanicals

The SB used the same engine and gearbox as the SA. A conventional ladder frame chassis was used with conventional semi-elliptical springs and solid axles front and rear.

SC

SC Manufacturer Toyota Production 3 prototypes in 1948 Assembly Japan Predecessor SA Successor SD Class large family car Body style(s) sedan Layout front-engine, rear-wheel drive Platform ladder frame Engine(s) Type S Transmission(s) 3 speed manual Related SB

The SB light truck was offered with commercial bodies only but many dealers and owners had sedan bodies made for them.Toyota contracted the Kanto Denki factory to produced a sedan body and wagon on the SB chassis as the SC. However, production of the SA sedan continued and the SC was not put into production. When production of the SA stopped, a revised version of the SC was made as the SD.

Dates and Production Figures

3 prototypes were built but the SC did not go into production.

Mechanicals

Same as the SB.

SD

A passenger car using the same chassis and suspension as the SB.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from 1949 to 1951.

Mechanicals

Same as the SB.

SF

SF Manufacturer Toyota Production from 1951 Assembly Japan Predecessor SD Successor RH Class large family car Body style(s) sedan Layout front-engine, rear-wheel drive Platform ladder frame Engine(s) Type S Transmission(s) 3 speed manual Wheelbase 2500 mm Length 4280 mm Width 1590 mm Height 1600 mm Curb weight 1250 kg

An update to the SD.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from October 1951 to 1953.

Mechanicals

Same as the SD.

SG

SG Manufacturer Toyota Production 1952-1954 Assembly Japan Predecessor SB Successor SK Class light truck Layout front-engine, rear-wheel drive Platform ladder frame Engine(s) Type S Transmission(s) 3 speed manual Wheelbase 2500 mm Length 4195 mm Width 1595 mm Height 1735 mm Curb weight 1170 kg

An update to the SB, sharing components with the SF.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from 1952 to 1954.

Mechanicals

Same as the SF.

RH

A further update to the SF but with the newly designed Type R engine. The RHN's body was made by the New Mitsubishi Heavy Industrial Manufacturing Co. and the RHK's body was made by Kanto Auto Work, Ltd.

The RH was also made into BH26 Police Patrol Car and the BH28 Ambulance by using the Type B 6 cylinder engine and a longer front end. The RH was succeeded by the similar 1955 RR Master and the much more modern 1955 RS Crown.

The RH was also known as the Super.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from 1953 to 1955.

Mechanicals

Same as the SF except for the new Type R engine.

RR

The RR Master was a further update to the SF/RH with an updated body.

The RS Crown was designed to replace the Super in 1955 but Toyota wasn't sure if its independent front coil suspension and its suicide type rear doors were too radical for the taxi market to bear. So the Super was updated, renamed the Master and sold alongside the Crown. When sales of the Crown proved worthwhile, the RR Master was discontinued in November 1956. Production facilities for the Master were transferred to the Crown.

The RR Master's body panels were used in cut-down form as an economical and fast way to design the new ST10 Corona in 1957. A later variant of the Crown was called the Masterline to distinguish it from other variants of the Crown.

Dates and Production Figures

Produced from January 1955 to November 1956.

Mechanicals

Same as the RH.

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>>Toyota G1

Toyota G1

The Toyota G1 was the first truck built by the company that became Toyota. It was 20 feet (6 m) long, could carry 1.5 tons and was loosely based on similar class Ford and GM trucks.

The G1 was succeeded by a line of similar Toyota trucks as technology progressed. The entire series was replaced by the BM truck in 1947.

G1

Kiichiro Toyoda's desire was to produce automobiles. Unfortunately, the A1 passenger car that was under development in 1935 was unlikely to sell well due to Japan's low economy. Work still progressed on the A1 but emphasis was shifted to a truck derived from the same engine and chassis (slightly lengthened).

The financial resources of the parent company, Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, were stretched almost to breaking point and large loans were required to put the G1 into production. The total cost of the G1 development was well several times the annual profits of Toyoda.

The G1 was sold as a Toyoda. The company changed it's name from Toyoda to Toyota at the introduction of the G1's successor, the GA.

Since this was Toyoda's first production vehicle, there were still many problems to be solved. When the first production examples were driven to Tokyo for the motor show, they were packed with many spare parts. These spare parts were in case something broke during the trip - luckily only a few replacement parts were required. Early sales were only to people who were sympathetic to local manufacturers and who were willing to endure many failures. To support them, design engineers from the factory were often sent to do repairs in order to learn which parts needed the most attention. For example, broken rear axle housings were common until new welding methods were developed. Repairs were done for free and sometimes entire trucks were replaced for free. Rectifications were then applied as running changes on the production line.

Dates

The G1 prototypes were completed in August 1935, shown to the public in November 1935 and released for sale in December 1935. This was just in time to meet the government deadline for licensing motor vehicle producers.

Mechanicals

The G1 used the 3389 cc Type A 6 cylinder engine that was also used in the A1 and AA. It produced 62 hp (46 kW).

A single solid axle housing with 2 single wheels was used at the front while a single solid axle housing with 2 pairs of double wheels was used at the rear.

GA

A minor update to the G1.

Dates and Production Figures

The GA replaced the G1 in September 1936.

Mechanicals

Similar to the G1.

GB

A minor update to the GA.

Dates and Production Figures

Production was 19870 units between 1938 and 1942.

Mechanicals

Similar to the GA.

KB

An update to the GB to make it more suitable for war time production. The body was still made from steel but was of a simpler design with less curves.

Dates and Production Figures

Production was 21130 units between 1942 and 1944.

Mechanicals

Similar to the GB.

KC

Scale model of a Toyota KC aircraft starter truck, minus the starting equipment. Scale model of a Toyota KC aircraft starter truck, minus the starting equipment. This is a very early version that still has curved guards over the wheels. Later versions had flat guards and a single headlight.

An update to the KB to make it even more suitable for war time production in times of limited material availability. Emphasis was on reducing the cost of materials. The engine cover was still metal but other body panels were made from plywood. The body design was extremely square, with only simple curves used on the engine cover and a flat radiator with no grill. Only a single headlight and only rear brakes were used.

The KC truck was used on Japanese military airfields to start aircraft engines. A power take-off was taken from after the gearbox. It rose behind the cabin and then projected forward. This was mated to the spinner on an aircraft's propeller to start the aircraft engine. Because it wasn't used for heavy cargo, the cargo bed was narrow and the rear wheels were singles instead of the normal doubles. Also, the cabin was very basic, having plywood sides, no doors and a canvas roof. Running boards were unique to the starter truck due to the narrow cargo bed. Hasegawa made a 1:72 scale plastic model of the KC starter truck labelled as "Starter Truck Toyota GB", even although the real GB had a curved radiator grill and more complex bodywork.

Dates and Production Figures

The KC was introduced in 1943.

Mechanicals

Similar to the KB.

KCY

A military Amphibious_vehicle vehicle using a metal boat style hull and KC truck mechanicals.

Dates and Production Figures

Production was 198 units between November 1943 and August 1944.

Mechanicals

The engine, gearbox, suspension and rear axle were based on the KC mechanicals. In addition, 4 wheel drive was added via a 2 speed transfer case. Water propulsion was by a PTO driven propeller. Brakes were hydraulic.

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>>Toyota Revo

Toyota Revo

The Toyota Revo (Full Name: Toyota Tamaraw FX Revo) was introduced in the Philippines in 1998, an offshoot of the successful Toyota Tamaraw FX. Its direct ancestor is the successful Toyota Tamaraw. Its development was paralleled in Indonesia with the Toyota Kijang.

Names

This vehicle is also known under the names in the following countries:

• Unser - Malaysia
• Zace - Vietnam, Taiwan
• Tamaraw FX Revo/Revo (for "Revolution") - Philippines
• Condor - Africa
• Kijang - Indonesia, Brunei
• Qualis ^[3] - India, Nepal

Variants

Model variants in Philippines are DLX, GL, GLX, SR (Sport Runner, in 1.8L and special 2.0L variants), SR-J (Sport Runner J), GSX (2.0L), VX200, VX200-J (both 2.0L) and VX240D). There was also a limited LXV edition Revo with gold trimmed emblems and a 1.8L engine.

All comes in gasoline and diesel variants, manual or automatic transmission. The SR, SR-J, VX200, VX200-J, and VX240D have special decals; the SR-J and VX200-J have special emblems (a red "J" after the "SR" or "VX200" emblem). There was a special edition Sport Runner with a 2.0L engine, which can be distinguished by its power antenna.

Final revisions to the Revo (before the Innova) includes new front grill and tail light designs, and the high-end versions got them and in-dash AV gear and electric voltage inverters (for playing all sorts of gadgets like Sony PlayStation) on higher-spec Revos.

History

Vehicle history before Revo:

• 1970s-80s: Tamaraw AUV
• 1991(oct)-199?: FX-HSPU
• 1993(dec)-1997: FX (Diesel 2.0[2C]; Gas 1.5[5K]; Gas 1.8[7K]

History of Revo:

• 1998(sep)-2004: Revo Diesel 2.4[2L]; Gas 1.8[7K-E]; Gas 2.0[1RZ-E]

Successor of Revo: Avanza, although many consider the IMV platform Innova to be its spiritual successor.

1st Generation (1970s to 1980s)

The Toyota Tamaraw (named for the Tamaraw, a small wild buffalo, Bubalus Mindorensis) started as a small high-side pick-up (HSPU) with the 1.2L "3K" gasoline engine, and was produced by the now-defunct Delta Motors, which assembled Toyota vehicles in the Philippines. It had a four-speed transmission. Because of its ruggedness and ease of maintenance, some of these vehicles still survive today, and its designs are sometimes copied or modified by local assemblers to this day. As competition, General Motors, by way of Francisco Motors, had the Harabas and the Pinoy, Ford had the 1.3L and 1.6L Fiera I, II, and III, and Chrysler-Mitsubishi had the smooth-running and high-revving 1.4L "Neptune"-powered Cimarron. It shares a lot of its looks with the first-generation Kijang. Both the Fiera and the Tamaraw became the choice for the Philippines' Department of Public Works and Highways as a utility vehicle. The Cimarron, on the other hand, along with the Tamaraw and the Fiera, became means of public transport in mountainous areas with no paved roads.

2nd Generation (1980s to 1990s)

The Toyota Tamaraw grew from a small vehicle to a larger HSPU, which also became powered by a 2.2L diesel engine and a five-speed manual transmission. It still retained the ruggedness of the old Tamaraw and is ideal for rough roads. It was then still assembled by Delta Motors. It was in direct competition with the 2.5L diesel Mazda-powered Ford Fiera IV (4th Gen), and the C190-powered Isuzu KC series. Again, it shares a few design hints with the Kijang, except the front grill. A local Philippine auto brand, Dragon, has took the designs of the diesel Tamaraw and marketed it. Also around this time Nissan, through its local assembler Universal Motors, assembled and marketed their own version, the Bida (Tagalog, hero).

3rd Generation (1991-1993)

Toyota launched the Tamaraw FX HSPU, which resembles the 2nd generation Tamaraw, but with a whole host of new features including power steering and air conditioning, with the option of installing extra rail-mounted lights on the roof. It came in gasoline and diesel variants. Its front fascia resembles that of the second-generation Kijang. The Tamaraw FX was assembled by Toyota Motors Philippines.

4th Generation (1993-1997)

The Tamaraw FX HSPU was adopted into a ten-seater vehicle to become the Tamaraw FX Wagon. It was embraced not only by families but also the taxi business, where it drew unfair competition to their car counterparts. There were two variants: one with a 1.8L gasoline engine and one with a 2.4L diesel engine (the 240D), each with a 5-speed manual transmission. Design-wise, it resembles the third-generation Kijang.

5th Generation (1998-2004)

Toyota reworked the Tamaraw FX into the Revo, which now features the amenities of an SUV but still within the limits of an AUV. Initial variants were the DLX (entry level), GL, GLX, and SR (Sport Runner), with either a 1.8L gasoline engine or a 2.4L diesel engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. It underwent two revisions (2002 and 2004) and two special releases (the LXV and the 2.0L SR) since its launch in 1998. The VX range (VX200 and VX240D), as well as the J-Spec Revos (SR-J, VX200 J), and the 2.0L GSX was launched in 2002. It shares a few things with the fourth-generation Kijang.

Following this lead by Toyota, other car makers entered the AUV race: Isuzu has entered the race with the Hi-Lander (which later evolved into the Crosswind, the Crosswind Sportivo, and the Alterra--all SUVs); Mitsubishi took its Taiwanese Freeca and unleashed it in the Philippines as the Adventure; and Honda took the CR-V crossover car to the Philippines and reclassified it into an AUV, which became an almost instant hit (but leaving its former competition, the Toyota RAV4, uncontested).

The Tamaraw FX/Revo was dropped in 2006 for no reason, despite the fact that even up to the last minute the Revo was available, demand for this AUV was still high. Its "successors," the Avanza and the Innova were not its successors simply because they perform nowhere near the level of versatility the REVO has shown. The Avanza is a small MPV with a body similar to Innova, (hence the moniker "baby Innova"), thus it is not a predecessor of Revo, because it is smaller. The Innova is not a predecessor of the Tamaraw FX REVO, mainly because the REVO has one advantage the Innova doesn't have: leaf spring suspensions, which allows the REVO to haul heavier loads and more people than the Innova (equipped with softer coil springs), hence it assures users of its versatility.

Eventually, Mitsubishi filled the vacuum the Revo left with its 2007 Fuzion.

Type

Toyota Revo is considered an AUV ( Asian Utility Vehicle ).

Specifications

Engines

1RZ-E 2.0L, for VX Class and GSX

• 4-cylinder in-line SOHC gasoline engine
• Displacement: 1,998 cc
• Bore and Stroke: 86.0mm x 86.0mm
• Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
• Max Output: 97 HP / 4,800 RPMs
• Max Torque: 161 Nm / 2,800 RPMs
• Fuel Supply: EFI

7K-E 1.8L, for SR, GLX Gas, GL Gas, and DLX Gas

• 4-Cylinder in-line OHV gasoline engine
• Displacement: 1,781cc
• Bore and Stroke: 80.5mm x 87.5mm
• Compression Ration: 9.0:1
• Max Output: 94 HP / 5,000 RPMs
• Max Torque: 155Nm / 3,200 RPMs
• Fuel Supply: EFI

2L, 2.4L, for all Diesel Revos

• 4-Cylinver in-line OHC diesel engine
• Displacement: 2,446cc
• Bore and Stroke: 92.0mm x 92.0mm
• Compression Ratio: 22.2:1
• Max output: 86HP / 4,200 RPMs
• Max Torque: 165 Nm / 2,500 RPMs
• Fuel Supply: Distribution Type Fuel Injection

Models

VX200

Variants: 2.0L Gas A/T (Leather) - RZF81L-GRPNEMD, 2.0 Gas A/T - RZF81L-GRPNEMC, 2.0 Gas M/T - RZF81L-GRPNEMD (a diesel variant, the VX240D, was also available, powered by the 2L engine)

Engine: 1RZ-E, 2L (for the VX240D)

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist; Tires/Wheels: 195/65R15 / 6JJx15" Alloy; with Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions:

• Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,610mm x 1,710mm x 1,780mm
• Wheelbase: 2,650mm
• Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430
• Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters
• Seating Capacity: 10 people
• Curb Weight: 1,490 kg (2.0 Gas A/T Leather), 1,485 kg (2.0 Gas A/T), 1,465 kg (2.0 Gas M/T)

Exterior:

• Multi-reflector Halogen front headlamps
• multi-reflector bumper-mounted foglamps
• color keyed extended front and rear bumper
• bumper overider (unique to VX Class)
• side/back door cladding
• side skirts
• overfenders
• color keyed rear spoiler with integrated high mount stop lamp
• roof rail
• black with chrome windshield moulding
• window visors (unique to the VX Class)
• power antenna, fender mounted
• large chrome side view mirrors
• chrome outside door handles
• body side stripes
• chrome roof drip mouldings
• chrome rear license plate ornaments
• rear window defogger, with timer
• muffler cutter (unique to the VX Class)

Interior:

• power windows (one-touch operation), power door locks, power side view mirrors
• sunvisor with vanity mirror on passenger side
• leather seats and door trim (on the 2.0 Gas A/T Leather VX200), moquette seats and door trim (for the 2.0 Gas A/T and 2.0 Gas M/T)
• 1+2 Separate, Full-Reclining seats (driver and front passenger) with Driver-side back pocket
• 2+1 Split Folding, Reclining Seats with center Armrest
• 2+2 Parallel retractable Rear seats, retractable (at the back)
• Driver-side Seat back Pocket
• 2 three-point seatbelts + 1 two-point seatbelt in the front and rear
• headrests, two each for front and rear, adjustable
• Wood Grain Trim on the dash and central control cluster
• Dashboard lower panel cover
• three-spoke leather steering wheel
• Key/Lamp Turn Off Warning Buzzer
• Dome and Roof integrated illuminated entry system
• Door Ajar Warning
• Child protection locks

Dealer Options:

• Dual-Type A/C with 4 speed blower
• Keyless Entry (Toyota Vehicle Security System/TVSS)
• KENWOOD 2-DIN 3-in-1 Radio Cassette/In-Dash Single CD Player (for 2.0L Gas Leather)
• ALPINE 1-DIN Radio/In-Dash Single CD Player (for 2.0 Gas A/T / M/T)

-(later upgraded to a A-V Package for the last revision)

• 4 front speakers and 2 rear speakers

SR (Sport Runner)

Variants: 1.8 Gas A/T (KF80L-GRPNEMA), 1.8 Gas M/T (KF80L-GRMNEMA), 2.0 Gas A/T (SR-J), 2.4 Diesel M/T (LF80L-GRMDSM)

Engine: 7K-E (1.8L), 1RZ-E (2.0L), 2L (2.4L)

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist; Tires/Wheels: 195/70R14 / 5.5JJx14" Alloy; with Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions:

• Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,505mm x 1,710mm x 1,780mm
• Wheelbase: 2,650mm
• Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430
• Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters

-Seating Capacity: 10 people -Curb Weight: 1,415 kg (1.8 A/T), 1,395 kg (1.8 M/T)

Exterior:

• Multi-reflector Halogen front headlamps
• multi-reflector bumper-mounted foglamps
• color keyed front and rear bumper
• side/back door cladding
• side skirts
• overfenders
• color keyed rear spoiler with integrated high mount stop lamp
• roof rail
• black windshield moulding
• pillar antenna (power fender-mounted antenna on the SR-J)
• large color-keyed side view mirrors
• black outside door handles
• body side stripes (SR-J models have a distinctive stripe design apart from ordinary SRs)
• rear window defogger, with timer
• chrome rear license plate ornaments

Interior:

• power windows (one-touch operation), power door locks, power side view mirrors
• sunvisor with vanity mirror on passenger side
• moquette seats and door trim
• 1+2 Separate, Full-Reclining seats (driver and front passenger) with Driver-side back pocket
• 2+1 Split Folding, Reclining Seats with center Armrest
• 2+2 Parallel retractable Rear seats, retractable (at the back)
• Driver-side Seat back Pocket
• 2 three-point seatbelts + 1 two-point seatbelt in the front and rear
• headrests, two each for front and rear, adjustable
• Dashboard lower panel cover
• three-spoke leather steering wheel
• Door Ajar Warning
• Child protection locks

Dealer Options:

• Dual-Type A/C with 4 speed blower
• Keyless Entry (Toyota Vehicle Security System/TVSS)
• ALPINE 1-DIN Radio/In-Dash Single CD Player (with VCD package which includes in-dash and in-headrest monitors for the 2004 Toyota Revo SR 1.8 A/T Leather only)
• 4 front speakers and 2 rear speakers

GSX

Variants: 2.0L Gas A/T (RZF81L-GRPNEM), 2.0L Gas M/T (RZF81L-GRMNEM)

Engine: 1RZ-E

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist; Tires/Wheels: 195/65R15 Alloy; With Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions: Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,495mm x 1,670mm x 1,775mm Wheelbase: 2,650mm Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430 Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters Seating Capacity: 10 people Curb Weight: 1,470 kg (A/T), 1,450 kg (M/T)

Exterior:

• Multi-reflector Halogen front headlamps
• multi-reflector bumper-mounted foglamps
• color keyed front and rear bumper
• color keyed rear spoiler with integrated high mount stop lamp
• black with chrome windshield moulding
• power antenna, fender mounted
• large chrome side view mirrors
• chrome outside door handles
• body stripes
• chrome roof drip mouldings
• chrome rear license plate ornaments
• rear window defogger, with timer

Interior:

• power windows (one-touch operation), power door locks, power side view mirrors
• sunvisor with vanity mirror on passenger side
• moquette seats and door trim (for the 2.0 Gas A/T and 2.0 Gas M/T)
• 1+2 Separate, Full-Reclining seats (driver and front passenger) with Driver-side back pocket
• 2+1 Split Folding, Reclining Seats with center Armrest
• 2+2 Parallel retractable Rear seats, retractable (at the back)
• Driver-side Seat back Pocket
• 2 three-point seatbelts + 1 two-point seatbelt in the front and rear
• headrests, two each for front and rear, adjustable
• three-spoke urethane steering wheel
• Key/Lamp Turn Off Warning Buzzer
• Dome and Roof integrated illuminated entry system
• Door Ajar Warning
• Child protection locks

Dealer Options:

• Dual-Type A/C with 4 speed blower
• Keyless Entry (Toyota Vehicle Security System/TVSS)
• ALPINE 1-DIN Radio/Cassette CD Ready
• 4 front speakers and 2 rear speakers

GLX

Variants: 1.8 Gas A/T (KF80L-GRPNEM, 1.8 Gas M/T (KF80L-GRMNEM), 2.4 Diesel M/T (LF80L-GRMNSM)

Engine: 7K-E (Gas), 2L (Diesel)

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist; Tires/Wheels: 195/70R14 / 5.5JJx14" Alloy; with Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions: Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,495mm x 1,670mm x 1,775mm Wheelbase: 2,650mm Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430 Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters Seating Capacity: 10 people Curb Weight: 1,400 kg (1.8 Gas A/T), 1,380 kg (1.8 Gas M/T), 1,510 kg (2.4 Diesel)

Exterior:

• Multi-reflector Halogen front headlamps
• multi-reflector bumper-mounted foglamps
• color keyed front and rear bumper
• black windshield moulding
• pillar antenna
• color-keyed large side view mirrors
• black outside door handles
• body side stripes
• rear window defogger, with timer

Interior: same as GSX but with no illuminated entry system and no key/lamp turn off warning

Dealer Options: same as GSX

GL Variants: 1.8 Gas M/T (KF80L-GRMDEM),2.4 Diesel M/T (LF80L-GRMDSM)

Engines: 7K-E (Gas), 2L (Diesel)

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist Tires/Wheels: 185/80R14 / 5J x 14" with full cap; with Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions:

• Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,495mm x 1,670mm x 1,775mm
• Wheelbase: 2,650mm
• Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430
• Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters
• Seating Capacity: 10 people
• Curb Weight: 1,350 kg (Gas), 1,480 kg (Diesel)

Exterior:

• Multi-reflector Halogen front headlamps
• color keyed front and rear bumper
• color keyed rear spoiler with integrated high mount stop lamp
• black windshield moulding
• pillar antenna
• black side view mirrors
• black outside door handles

Interior:

• No power features
• sunvisor for both driver and passenger but no vanity mirror in passenger side
• seat/door trim material made of flat woven fabric
• 1+2 Separate, Full-Reclining seats (driver and front passenger)
• 2+1 Split Folding, Reclining Seats
• 2+2 Parallel retractable Rear seats, retractable (at the back)
• 2 three-point seatbelts + 1 two-point seatbelt in the front only
• headrests, two each for front and rear, adjustable
• three-spoke urethane steering wheel
• door ajar warning
• child protection lock

Dealer Options:

• A/C system (dual type, 4-speed blower)
• no keyless entry
• FUJITSU TEN 1-DIN Radio/Cassette (CD ready)
• 2 speakers at the front only

DLX (Entry Level)

Variants: 1.8 Gas M/T (KF80L-GRMREM), 2.4 Diesel M/T (LF80L-GRMRSM)

Engines: 7K-E (Gas), 2L (Diesel)

Chassis: Suspension for Front/Rear: Double Wishbone (Torsion bar Type) with stabilizer Bar/Rigid Axle, Leaf Springs; Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs; Back: Drums; Steering System: Rack and Pinion with Power Assist; Tires/Wheels: 185/80R14 / 5J x 14" with center ornament; with Side Door Impact Beams

Dimensions:

• Overall Length x Width x Height: 4,495mm x 1,670mm x 1,775mm
• Wheelbase: 2,650mm
• Tread: front: 1,445mm; Rear: 1,430
• Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9m
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters
• Seating Capacity: 10 people
• Curb Weight: 1,310 kg (Gas), 1,440 kg (Diesel)

Exterior:

• Standard Halogen front headlamps
• color keyed front and rear bumper
• color keyed rear spoiler with integrated high mount stop lamp
• black windshield moulding
• pillar antenna
• black side view mirrors
• black outside door handles

Interior:

• no power features
• sunvisor for driver and front passenger
• vinyl seat and door trim
• 1+2 Separate, Full-Reclining seats (driver side)
• 2+1 Split Folding rear seats
• 2+2 Parallel back seats, retractable
• 2 three-point seatbelts + 1 two-point seatbelt in the front only
• headrests, two each for front and rear, adjustable
• three-spoke polypropylene steering wheel
• door ajar warning
• child protection lock

Dealer Options:

• A/C system (dual type, 4-speed blower)
• no keyless entry
• FUJITSU TEN 1-DIN Radio/Cassette
• 2 speakers at the front only

Notes

In the Philippines some owners of lower-spec Revos modify them to resemble mostly the SR (Sport Runner) specification. They can be spotted by the lack of rear window demisters and/or power locks, features found in higher-spec Revos

Read The Full Article:
http://cars-pickup-truck.blogspot.com/2008/01/toyota-revo.html

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