1997 Toyota Camry Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　Toyota plays the market conservatively with the all-new Camry, giving consumers exactly what they want; a roomy, attractive, feature-laden car with available V6 performance and the promise of excellent reliability as well as resale value. The 1997 Toyota Camry is the new standard for midsize sedans.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1997 Toyota Camry CE 4dr Sedan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$158/mo  for Camry CE

　　Camry CE

　　CE 4dr Sedan (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPXLE V6 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPCE V6 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPLE V6 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPXLE 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRPLE 4dr Sedan - N/A MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　

Vehicle overview

　　The Camry is the new standard for midsized sedans. It has room inside for five adults, attractive yet conservative styling, exceptional pep from an available 24-valve 3.0-liter V6, and a price that doesn't break the bank so long as options are kept to a minimum.

　　Toyota is going after the number-one sales spot with vigor. The Camry is larger and more powerful than last year, but costs less money. Coupe and wagon models have been dropped from the lineup, and consumers can opt for the V6 engine on base CE models for the first time. Antilock brakes are standard on all but the most basic Camrys, and an integrated child-safety seat is optional across the board. Buyers of V6 models can order traction control for inclement weather.

　　The new Camry can be equipped for rugged family life, or plush luxury touring. Options on higher-grade LE and XLE models include a premium sound system, leather interior trim, and a power moonroof. With the V6 engine, the Camry accelerates strongly. Braking is swift and sure with the antilock system, and Camry hangs on well in corners despite rather meek all-season radials.

　　Inside, a two-inch increase in wheelbase has allowed designers to maximize space, creating a larger Camry than ever. Controls and gauges are laid-out nicely in a more flowing dashboard than the previous car boasted. Camry CE sticks with a fixed-mast stereo antenna, but LE and XLE get an in-glass antenna, which reduces wind noise. Storage areas have been increased also, and a tissue holder is built into the center console. Front cupholders accommodate 20-ounce bottles of your favorite beverage.

　　Is the Camry the perfect family conveyance? Not out of the box, but it's close. We'd opt for a lightly-loaded CE with the V6 engine, add some aftermarket aloy wheels, and do a bit of suspension and tire work to create the ultimate sleeper of staid bread-and-butter sedans.

　　

1997 Camry Highlights

Trim: CECE V6LE V6LEXLEXLE V6CE

　　

Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$158/month
Drivetrain	front wheel drive