1993 Toyota Camry from North America
Summary:
The best value for the dollar
Faults:
Brake calipers seized up, and I had to have the car towed to the garage as I couldn't move it. An $800.00 bill later and the problem is fixed. I had them do some other minor, not absolutely needed brake related repairs at the same time.
General Comments:
I have been driving this car for just over a year now, and I really like it. It seems to me that it is a very reliable car, other than the brake issue, but what do you expect with a car that is as of now 22 years old.
A couple of minor things that I think could be improved upon:
First, maybe it's just me, but I think if the car sat an inch or two higher from the road, it would make a difference in how it handles.
Secondly, it would be nice if it handled the snow a little better. Last winter was my first winter owning and driving it, and it definitely needed new tires. I had all new tires put on in the spring, so that will help me this coming winter.
Predominantly I use this car as my getting to and from work and home car, which is five miles one way. This past summer I did take it on a 700 mile round road trip and the car handled it fine with absolutely no problems; at times getting up to 80+ mph for almost 100 miles straight. I do some other minor 100+ mile road trips with this car, but predominantly local in town driving.
Overall I really like this car; it's the best $2,950 I ever spent. Of course I had to put a little money into it, but it's mostly wear and tear stuff. I do change the oil myself every 3,000 miles after discovering how insanely easy it is in these cars. I've had cars where you have to be a contortionist and an athlete to get to the oil filter, and 1.5 hours later, covered in grime and oil, the job is done. That is not so on this car. I do it myself in ten minutes; love it. My other car (2011 Toyota Rav4) I take it to the garage for oil changes.
I am going to drive this car until it will no longer drive. It looks like that won't be for many more years. I'm not afraid to put a little money into a car within reason that is completely paid for. If the repair costs ever get into the thousands per year, then it's time to start thinking about a replacement. With knowing how this car is running, I don't perceive that happening for many years to come.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd December, 2014
3rd Dec 2014, 22:27
You paid $2950 for a 20 year old Camry with over 100K miles on it?
Mmmkay.