Toyota’s website excludes the first-gen Cresta models (X50 series from 1980-1984) through its lineage for whatever reason, perhaps due to its similarly exclusive release through only certain dealerships in Japan.
However, the second generation Toyota Cresta (X70) was released more widely in August 1984. Toyota was an early adopter of turbocharged engines, and the Cresta is a prime example. This generation model was available with a turbocharged 2.0L inline-six that made 145 horsepower. Alongside it, two naturally-aspirated inline-six offerings, a four-cylinder option, and even a turbo diesel variant were available. Finally, 1985 brought the Cresta GT, which used a twin-turbo six-cylinder and made 182 horsepower.
Just four years later Toyota released the third-gen Cresta (X80) in 1988. Updated styling and an even more plush interior were met with another host of engine options. Among them were again a host of twin-turbo inline-six engines, a four-cylinder, and a turbo-diesel option. The crown jewel, though, was the 1989 addition of the legendary 1JZ twin-turbo six-cylinder.
1992 brought the next-generation Cresta (X90), and most JDM-loving folks will recognize it as a member of the JZX90 family. Also known as the JZX91 when equipped with the 2JZ, this generation Cresta is perhaps the most iconic. Modern upgrades like ABS and a torque-sensing LSD, combined with the 1JZ and 2JZ powerplants, create a luxurious grandma car that comes with some real grunt and capability.
[Featured image by Toyotacoronaexsaloon via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC-BY-SA 4.0]
