The Good
The 1998 RAV4 boasts Toyota's renowned reliability, ensuring practical buyers a dependable ride. Its nimble performance and car-like handling make it fun and easy to maneuver, appealing emotionally. With respectable fuel efficiency, compact design, and excellent long-term value, it offers an economical ownership experience. The unique, youthful design and optional AWD cater to an adventurous spirit, while its durability satisfies the pragmatic.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1998 Toyota RAV4 include limited cargo space in the two-door model and a somewhat noisy engine at highway speeds. Owners should watch out for common age-related issues such as rust, especially on the undercarriage and rear subframe, as well as potential wear in suspension components and power steering pump leaks, which can affect long-term reliability and comfort.
1998 Toyota RAV4: Quick Overview
The 1998 Toyota RAV4, a foundational compact SUV, offered a focused set of specifications catering to its design philosophy of versatility and efficiency.
- Engine: It was exclusively powered by a 2.0-liter (1998 cc) 3S-FE inline four-cylinder engine. This robust and proven powerplant was known for its durability.
- Horsepower: The 3S-FE engine produced a respectable 127 horsepower at 5400 RPM, providing adequate power for city driving and light highway use.
- Torque: It generated 132 lb-ft of torque at 4600 RPM, contributing to its responsive feel.
- Transmission: Buyers had a choice of either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations were available.
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD Manual: Approximately 24 MPG city / 30 MPG highway.
- AWD Automatic: Approximately 22 MPG city / 27 MPG highway.
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: The RAV4 typically achieved 0-60 mph in the range of 9.5 to 10.5 seconds, depending on the drivetrain and transmission.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the 1998 RAV4 had a modest towing capacity of around 1,500 pounds, suitable for small trailers or recreational gear.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Trim: Standard features included manual windows and door locks, an AM/FM stereo cassette player, power steering, and steel wheels. Air conditioning was typically an option.
- L Trim (Luxury/Upgrade): This trim added desirable conveniences such as power windows, power door locks, cruise control, air conditioning as standard, a more upscale interior fabric, and often alloy wheels. A roof rack was also commonly found on L models.
1998 Toyota RAV4 Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 1998 |
Make | Toyota |
Model | RAV4 |
Trim | - |
Style | 4-Door 2WD |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Japan |
Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 2789 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3649 pounds |
Overall Height | 65.20 inches |
Overall Length | 147.60 inches |
Overall Width | 66.70 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 86.60 inches |
Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.0-L |
Engine Size | 2L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $16,848 |
Invoice Price | $15,097 |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Toyota RAV4 Have?
One of the most significant and pervasive issues across the first-generation RAV4, including the 1998 model, is rust. Owners frequently report rust on the undercarriage, rear subframe, exhaust components, and sometimes around the wheel wells and lower body panels. This is a critical point for inspection, as severe rust can compromise structural integrity.
Beyond rust, common mechanical problems tend to be age-related wear and tear rather than inherent design flaws. These include:
- Suspension Components: Over time, struts, shock absorbers, control arm bushings, and ball joints wear out, leading to a degraded ride quality, clunking noises, or uneven tire wear.
- Exhaust System: Mufflers and exhaust pipes are prone to rust and corrosion, often requiring replacement.
- Catalytic Converter and O2 Sensors: These components can fail after many years and miles, leading to "check engine" lights and emissions issues.
- Power Steering Leaks: The power steering pump and hoses can develop leaks.
- Electrical Issues: Minor electrical gremlins, such as malfunctioning power window switches or dashboard lights, can occur.
- Automatic Transmission: While generally robust, some owners have reported rough shifting or, in rare cases, failure of the 4-speed automatic transmission, particularly if maintenance has been neglected. The manual transmission tends to be less problematic.
- Engine Seals and Gaskets: Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or main seals can develop over time.
How long will the 1998 Toyota RAV4 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech:
- This vehicle offered no infotainment system, touchscreen displays, or advanced digital interfaces. The dashboard was entirely analog, featuring gauges for speed, RPM, fuel level, and engine temperature.
- Basic controls for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) were manual rotary knobs and sliders.
- Standard entertainment was typically an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player.
- An optional or higher-trim feature might include a single-disc CD player.
- Sound quality was rudimentary by today's standards, usually channeled through a simple 2 or 4-speaker setup.
- Modern driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors were non-existent.
- The driver relied solely on their own observation and skill.
- Standard: The 1998 RAV4 came equipped with dual front airbags (for driver and front passenger) and three-point seatbelts for all outboard occupants. Seatbelt pretensioners were also typically included.
- Optional: The most significant optional safety feature was the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was highly recommended for improved stopping performance, especially in adverse conditions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted tests on the 1998 Toyota RAV4, providing the following ratings:
- Frontal Driver: 4 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Passenger: 4 out of 5 stars
- Side Impact (Driver): 3 out of 5 stars (This rating typically refers to front-seat occupant protection in side impacts. Rear side impact data was not usually provided for vehicles of this class and era.)
- Rollover: 3 out of 5 stars (A general rating for rollover propensity).
What Colors Options are Available?
1998 Toyota RAV4 Prices and Market Value
1998 Toyota RAV4 Cost of Ownership
1998 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Efficiency
1998 Toyota RAV4 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Toyota RAV4 Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Air:disc:rotor
Power Train:automatic Transmission:park/Neutral Start Interlock Switch
Electrical System:ignition:anti-Theft:control Module
Electrical System:ignition:anti-Theft:control Module
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
1998 Toyota RAV4 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
1998 Toyota RAV4 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Toyota RAV4 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Performance:
- The RAV4 offered nimble, car-like handling with its 127 hp 2.0L engine, making it feel more like a tall car than a truck. Its FWD base provided good fuel economy, while the AWD option added capability.
- The Honda CR-V was very similar in philosophy, perhaps offering a slightly more refined ride and interior for some. Its 2.0L 126 hp engine provided comparable power.
- The Subaru Forester, with its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and boxer engine (initially 165 hp 2.5L in the US), often felt more planted and capable in adverse weather or light off-road situations, offering a slightly more powerful feel than the RAV4.
- The Suzuki Grand Vitara/Sidekick and Kia Sportage were generally more truck-like, often featuring body-on-frame construction (early Sportage) and more traditional SUV dynamics, which translated to a less refined on-road experience but potentially greater ruggedness.
- All vehicles in this class were relatively basic by modern standards. The RAV4, CR-V, and Forester offered similar creature comforts for their time, including optional AC, power accessories, and basic stereos.
- The CR-V sometimes received praise for its clever interior packaging, like its fold-down picnic table.
- The Forester emphasized practicality and safety with its AWD.
- The RAV4, CR-V, and Forester are all celebrated for their long-term reliability. Toyota and Honda are often considered top-tier for longevity, with engines and transmissions designed to last.
- Subaru's Boxer engine had some known head gasket issues in certain years, but overall, it's a durable platform.
- The Sportage and Grand Vitara were generally reliable for their price point but didn't quite match the stellar reputation of their Japanese counterparts.
- New, all these compact SUVs were competitively priced.
- In the current used market, the RAV4, CR-V, and Forester generally command higher prices due to their enduring reputation for reliability and utility. The Sportage and Grand Vitara are typically found at lower price points.
- Similar Alternatives: For a direct comparison, the 1998 Honda CR-V is an excellent alternative, offering a very similar driving experience, reliability, and utility. The Subaru Forester is also a strong contender, especially if better AWD capability is a priority.
- Better Alternatives (if budget allows for newer models): If the budget permits, looking at slightly newer generations of the RAV4, CR-V, or Forester would provide improvements in safety, comfort, and performance.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Toyota RAV4 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
It is absolutely worth buying used, provided you find one in good mechanical condition with minimal rust. Given its age, focus on models with a comprehensive service history. The four-door "L" trim offers the most practicality and features. While the manual transmission often provides a more engaging drive and potentially fewer long-term issues, a well-maintained automatic is also a solid choice. Avoid examples with significant rust, as this can quickly escalate repair costs beyond the vehicle's value. Overall, a well-cared-for 1998 RAV4 remains a smart, economical purchase for its intended purpose.