1991 Toyota Camry Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 1991 Toyota Camry excelled with legendary reliability and impressive fuel efficiency, offering practical buyers a durable, low-maintenance vehicle. Its comfortable, quiet ride and smooth performance provided peace of mind for daily commutes. The understated, timeless design appealed to those seeking quality without pretense, while its strong resale value historically, along with affordable running costs, made it an economically sound and emotionally reassuring choice.

The Bad

While remarkably reliable, the 1991 Toyota Camry isn't without weaknesses. Owners should watch out for rust, particularly around the rear wheel wells and rocker panels in salt-prone areas. Some older models may exhibit oil leaks from the valve covers or distributor O-ring. The automatic transmissions, while generally robust, can fail if maintenance is neglected, and the ride can become harsh with worn suspension components.

1991 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview

The 1991 Toyota Camry, a stalwart of the second generation (V20), offered a practical and reliable package with various specifications:

• Engine Options:
  • 2.0-liter 3S-FE inline-four cylinder engine.
  • 2.5-liter 2VZ-FE V6 engine, available in LE and SE trims.
• Horsepower:
  • 2.0L I4: Approximately 115 horsepower.
  • 2.5L V6: Approximately 153 horsepower.
• Fuel Economy (EPA estimates for 1991):
  • 2.0L I4 with 5-speed manual: Around 22 MPG city / 28 MPG highway.
  • 2.0L I4 with 4-speed automatic: Around 20 MPG city / 26 MPG highway.
  • 2.5L V6 with 4-speed automatic: Around 18 MPG city / 23 MPG highway.
• 0-60 MPH Times:
  • 2.0L I4: Generally in the 10-11 second range.
  • 2.5L V6: Quicker, typically in the 8-9 second range.
• Towing Capacity: While not designed for heavy towing, the 1991 Camry typically had a light towing capacity of approximately 1,000-1,500 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for small utility trailers.
• Trim-Level Features:
  • DLX: The base model, featuring cloth upholstery, AM/FM stereo, power steering, and front disc brakes. Air conditioning was often optional.
  • LE: The more popular mid-range trim, adding significant comfort and convenience. Standard features often included power windows, power door locks, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, upgraded sound system, and full wheel covers. The V6 engine was an available option.
  • SE: The sportier variant, typically featuring a firmer suspension for improved handling, unique exterior accents, alloy wheels, and sportier interior seating. The V6 engine was often standard or a common upgrade in this trim, appealing to those seeking a more engaging drive.
  • Optional Features: Common options across trims included a power sunroof, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and more advanced audio systems. Wagon versions were available in DLX and LE trims, providing increased cargo versatility.

1991 Toyota Camry Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 1991 Toyota Camry Have?

• Oil Leaks: A frequently reported problem for older Camrys. Common culprits include hardened valve cover gaskets, the distributor O-ring, and the oil pan gasket. These leaks are usually minor but should be addressed to prevent low oil levels and potential long-term damage.
• Power Steering Leaks: The power steering system's hoses and pump seals can degrade over time, leading to fluid leaks or a whining noise from the pump. Replacing the hoses and potentially the pump is a common repair.
• Automatic Transmission Wear: Although largely durable, automatic transmissions, particularly if fluid changes were neglected, can exhibit harsh shifting or, in rare cases, complete failure. Early signs might include delayed engagement or slipping gears.
• Suspension Component Wear: With mileage, suspension bushings, shocks, and struts will wear out. This can lead to a less comfortable ride, reduced handling precision, and noises over bumps. Control arm bushings are particularly susceptible.
• Rust: In regions where road salt is used, the 1991 Camry is prone to rust, especially around the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and sometimes the subframe or floorboards. Thorough pre-purchase inspections are crucial.
• Brake System Issues: Calipers can seize over time, and the rear drum brakes on some models can stick. Regular brake maintenance is essential to prevent these common occurrences.

• Seat Belt Anchorage (NHTSA Campaign ID: 91V061000): This recall affected various Toyota models from 1987-1991. The seat belt bolt attaching the automatic sliding buckle to the anchorage could loosen, potentially causing the seat belt to detach.
• Fuel Pump (NHTSA Campaign ID: 91V102000): Affecting models from 1988-1991, this recall addressed potential failure of internal components within the fuel pump, which could lead to engine stalling.
• ABS Master Cylinder (NHTSA Campaign ID: 91V101000): For 1990-1991 models equipped with ABS, a defective sensor in the brake master cylinder reservoir could prevent the low fluid warning light from illuminating if fluid levels dropped.

How long will the 1991 Toyota Camry last?

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

• Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
  • Standard Audio: Most models came with a basic AM/FM radio, often integrated with a cassette player. Higher trims might have featured a more powerful stereo with additional speakers.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Power steering was standard. Higher DLX, LE, and SE trims commonly included power windows, power door locks, and cruise control. A tilt steering wheel was also an option, contributing to driver comfort. Intermittent windshield wipers and a simple digital clock were also standard or widely available.
• Driver-Assistance Features:
  • Modern driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were non-existent in this era. The primary driver-assistance features were the power steering and cruise control, designed to reduce driver fatigue on long journeys.
• Safety Features:
  • Airbags: A significant safety upgrade for its time, a driver's side airbag was available as an option on the 1991 Camry, particularly on higher trims like the LE and SE. Passenger airbags were not yet common.
  • Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts were standard for all outboard passengers, providing crucial restraint.
  • Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): This advanced safety feature was available as an option, primarily on the LE and SE models, significantly improving braking performance and control during emergency stops.
  • Side-Impact Protection: The vehicle incorporated basic side-impact door beams, a common safety measure to enhance occupant protection in side-collision scenarios for its generation.
• Crash-Test Ratings:
  • According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) frontal crash tests for the 1991 Toyota Camry sedan (V20 generation), the vehicle received a 3-star rating for the driver's side and a 3-star rating for the front passenger's side. It's important to note that crash test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 1991, so these ratings should be interpreted in the context of vehicles from that specific era.

What Colors Options are Available?

1991 Toyota Camry Prices and Market Value

1991 Toyota Camry Cost of Ownership

1991 Toyota Camry Fuel Efficiency

1991 Toyota Camry Recalls & Defects

1991 Toyota Camry Insurance

How Does the 1991 Toyota Camry Compare to Other Wagon?

• Performance: The 1991 Camry, particularly with its optional 2.5L V6 engine, offered strong, smooth performance that was competitive with its Japanese rivals and often superior to many domestic V6 options. The V6 Camry's 0-60 mph times were respectable for its class, generally on par with the Honda Accord EX. While the Mazda 626 GT might have offered a slightly sportier feel, and the Ford Taurus SHO was a performance outlier, the Camry provided a balanced blend of power and refinement. The 4-cylinder models were adequate for daily driving, matching the Accord's base engine.
• Features: The Camry's LE and SE trims were well-equipped for their time, featuring amenities like power windows, locks, cruise control, and optional ABS and a driver's airbag. This put it on par with the top trims of the Honda Accord and Mazda 626. Domestic rivals like the Taurus and Lumina could often be optioned with more luxury features, but often at the expense of overall build quality.
• Reliability: This is where the 1991 Camry truly shone, often considered neck and neck with the Honda Accord as the benchmark for dependability. Its long-term durability and minimal unexpected issues surpassed most rivals, especially the domestic offerings which frequently suffered from electrical gremlins, transmission problems, and premature wear. The Mazda 626 also offered good reliability but generally not to the legendary extent of the Camry or Accord.
• Price: New, the Camry was priced competitively with the Honda Accord, often slightly higher than base domestic sedans but justified by its superior quality and expected longevity. Its strong resale value historically reflected this.

• Similar/Slightly Better: The 1991 Honda Accord is a primary alternative, offering comparable reliability, fuel efficiency, and a slightly more engaging driving experience for some. The 1991 Mazda 626 also presented a compelling package with good reliability and a sportier demeanor.
• Value Alternative (with caveats): A Ford Taurus from the same era might be found cheaper but comes with a higher risk of maintenance and reliability issues.

Final Verdict: Is the 1991 Toyota Camry a Good Wagon?

1991 Toyota Camry Owner Reviews

Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.