Thinking of buying an old Camry....

[FLU]

As title! I fancy something a bit different with a  90's look. Probably looking at 4th Generation 1997-2002 Camry's. I'm also fed up of the headache and expense from owning many unreliable vehicles. I assume all Camry models have reliable engines? Is the 3.0 ltr much more thirsty than the 2.2 ltr? . Any models / engines to avoid? Any defects to look for which are not always apparent?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[FLU]

BUMP!

 

Any red flags, advice which may not be obvious to a Toyota novice like me?

 

I'm off to view an old Camry today...

[Hybrid21]

Hi Flu, unfortunately I don't know much about old Camry's.

But as an owner of an 80's car I would advise that a big concern is rust and general bodywork condition, as most mechanical problems can be sorted.

Before viewing check out as much history on the vehicle as you can find.

When you approach the said prospective purchase scan it and what is your brain telling you, does it look cared for ? Suitable location ? 

What impression does the owner give ? Then closely inspect the vehicle, bodywork, interior, engine bay, tyres, brakes, etc

Finally if possible test drive and allow everything to warm up, checking steering, brakes, engine, electrics, etc

Above all take your time and don't be rushed 👍

 

 

[FLU]

Thanks Hybrid.

Yes rust can be hidden thanks for reminding me. Common sense advice but I need to make more decisions with my head instead of my heart...

Which 80's car do you own?

[Hybrid21]

Hi Flu, I've got an 87 VW Golf GTi which I've had since new.

Been off the road, garaged for a number of years and I'm working on getting her back on the road.

But I think I need the enthusiasm of someone maybe 30 years younger 😀😀

[RUToyota]

If a Camry has been well looked after then it shouldn't present many problems...usual visual checks of course + MOT online check.

They are a really good car and I've always been a fan. My brother had two and he loved them.

Personally I'd simply have to go for the 24valve  V6...it's peach of an engine (1MZ-FE like my Estima and the Lexus RX300) and mines been utterly quiet, smooth and trouble free over the nearly 8 years I've had it....it's a joy to drive.

I doubt you need to overly worry about the mpg as my guess is it won't be that much different to the lesser model...but with far more enjoyment per mile.

[FLU]

I declined buying the 1998 Maroon Toyota Camry 2.2i Saloon 4dr Petrol Automatic vehicle.  It was advertised on a well known Auto-Trading website. Can we post links?

Unless it's as I suspect...🤨 I'm baffled how it passed its MOT.  The front bumber support bracket was rust. It literally fell off as I breathed on it! 

It drove fine and the sellers was adamant it's nothing to worry about .... they was 'honest guys'  because they'd left cobwebs on the engine....

 

[FLU]

19 hours ago, Hybrid21 said:

Hi Flu, I've got an 87 VW Golf GTi which I've had since new.

Been off the road, garaged for a number of years and I'm working on getting her back on the road.

But I think I need the enthusiasm of someone maybe 30 years younger 😀😀

I love Golfs! Once you drive one again your enthusiasm will come back in abundance!