Image via Bring A Trailer
Some people buy old firetrucks to fulfill a childhood dream, while others buy them as different playthings they can use in parades and such. Whatever your reason for wanting one, this 1996 Toyota HiAce double cab firetruck is an unusual find here in North America, so you get the bonus of a JDM vehicle.
Ride along on the back of a ladder truck responding to a house fire.
Offered on Bring A Trailer at no reserve, this truck is ready for your to tool around town and turn plenty of heads. It’s painted red with gold and white graphics, including Japanese characters. This is the sort of thing you can take to a meet or anywhere and get plenty of stares, questions, and requests for photographs.
As you can see, the bed is open and empty, with a cloth cover. Tucked in the chassis is a stout 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission plus a dual-range transfer case. Plus, there are manual locking hubs up front, just in case conditions gets a little hairy. Just driving this firetruck would be a real treat.
You’ll notice there’s a red strobe light mounted to the roof, which we assume is working since the listing doesn’t say it isn’t. While we would be careful about using that, it’s a fun feature to play with in certain situations.
The interior is fairly plain, with a right-hand-drive layout and gray cloth upholstery. However, it looks to be in good condition and should be comfortable enough for riding around town, leading the local parade, or showing off at a car meet. There is a Boss Audio Bluetooth sound system, allowing you to listen to your tunes while rolling, although the speakers aren’t working, so you’ll have to address that. Plus, you get a CB radio for extra fun.
If you want a chance at snagging this unusual JDM firetruck, the auction is coming to a close soon on Bring A Trailer, which you can view here.
Images via Bring A Trailer
