In 1967, the third generation Crown was introduced. With the adoption of a perimeter frame, curved glass, and extensive use of soundproof materials, it combined high levels of comfort and quietness. In an effort to break away from the image of being a government or corporate car, advertisements aimed at individual users were deployed. As part of this initiative, the first-ever two-door hardtop Crown was introduced. It was marketed to individual customers with the slogan “The White Crown”, but its sales were fewer compared to the sedan, and there are few remaining models today.
The base vehicle for this restoration was one of these Crown hardtops. With a mileage of 20,000 km and having been stored under a roof, its overall condition was fairly good, but its vehicle registration had expired in 1987. Would the M-type six-cylinder engine still run? What condition was the body under the dull paint? Despite these concerns, the restoration of the MS51 Crown Hardtop began under the leadership of the legendary Smoky Nagata of Top Secret.
It became clear that the engine started without issue, but a water leak from the cooling system was discovered. The hoses and water pump were replaced, and to suit modern road conditions, the radiator was upgraded to an Aqua Garage model.

The bodywork was completed by an affiliate of Top Secret, Top Secret II Body Works. The side sill on the passenger side, which had become corroded due to water accumulation, was cut out and newly fabricated. Anticorrosives, base work, and restoration of the body color to match the original shade were all meticulously carried out. In addition, the tarnished chrome parts were carefully disassembled and re-chromed by the president of Star Road, Mr Inoue, at BFM Yamate in Shizuoka, restoring them to a shine that matched that of a new car. Not only were large parts like the bumpers, but even the reflectors, taillight bezels, door handles, and fender mirrors were re-chromed, with their gleam remaining flawless.
As for the interior, due to the vehicle having been stored in a garage, only a clean-up was needed, resulting in an exceptional finish.
The wheels are not original but are Volk Racing TE37V, which add a sporty and rebellious edge, despite the vehicle being mostly original.
The engine, too, underwent final tuning of the single carburetor by Smokey Nagata, ensuring that the car runs in perfect condition. Beautifully restored, this vehicle stands as a perfect example of a restoration and update that respects the original, carried out by experts in the field.