Solve This Mystery? 1991 Toyota Townace 'Super Extra' did we get these in the U.S.?

[Avantcore]

I live in Chicago, IL close to down town, I was driving back to my place and spotted this beauty. In my frenzy of taking quick stalker photos didn't think to check the plates and can't make them out in the photos.

Did we get these in the U.S.? From my looking around we did not. Any idea where the plates are from, thinking Canada thus explaining why this exist in the states?

I am in love with this van.

 

[Dances with Wolves]

In the US market it was just called a "Toyota Van" . It was replaced by the Previa. My ex brother in law had a '85. It didn't have the raised roof or 4WD.

 

[Toiyabe]

We could get the Toyota Van in 4wd in the US. No idea on the raised roof. Check out this site:
http://www.toyotavanpeople.com/forum/index.php

The license plate is from New Brunswick.

 

[njtacoma]

My answer is sort of...
As mentioned above the base van was called the toyota van here.
The models that were available here seem to be prized possessions here, or completely trashed.
I was in Vancouver this summer and almost crashed looking at Delicas (mitsubishi) everywhere we went.

 

[haven]

There's some information (quite a lot, actually) about the LiteAce/TownAce vans, which feature the sloped windshield instead of the blunt front end of the larger HiAce vans.
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_LiteAce

 

[96Delica]

Those are New Brunswick plates, so, Canada!

 

[bjowett]

An awesome under-appreciated vehicle, but as mentioned, rare. No super skylights on the USA versions. Quite capable due to a short wheelbase, manual transmission, the rear 4 link solid axle, and the real transfer case with high/low range. Some have a cold box that can make ice. If I recall correctly, they use 7.5" differentials which are common with the trucks, so some traction aiding LSD and lockers are available.

 

[Avantcore]

Late response (been on hiatus) but it's sad we didn't get these or the Delicas, I am really obsessed with 4wd vans. VW Syncros are far to expensive.

Recently at this years Chicago Auto Show I got to see this turbo diesel 4x4 Quigley converted 2015 Ford Transit, $50k with tax, someday right?

 

[Haf-E]

You could always go out and pick up an AWD Chevy Astro / GMC Safari van for a couple of grand - can also swap in a real part time high/low transfer case for true 4WD. Parts are easy to get and they are fairly common in junk yards too. More space inside then a Syncro or Toyota vans and a V6 with more power too.