About to buy a 1999 Camry-Questions

[Shawn5800]

Hey guys, Im about to buy a 1999 Camry. I just have a few questions.

1. What would you pay for this?
http://worcester.craigslist.org/cto/2060688609.html

2.The vehicle im selling now is a 1998 Prizm with 173k. Is the engine in that camry any more powerful? Will i notice a difference in ride quality? I just really need something better for a long commute and my prizm is super tired and the transmission is starting to kinda of "fall" into gear. It no longer has quick smooth shifts which worries me. Now the starter is going. I figured now is the time to get rid of it before it really hits rock bottom.

3. Is this a good decision going from my prizm to this camry?....

Need help guys! thanks!

[camryto]

I would get a mechanic to look at it. Can you get any more money? I would look at this Camry if you can get to the area:

http://worcester.craigslist.org/cto/2074110565.html

It's O.B.O. so maybe they're flexible on price.

[LynchburgCSI]

ALWAYS have a mechanic look at a used car if you don't know much about cars. Try to stay under 150k miles or so. They WILL last longer if take care of though. Prices... stay under $3500. Use edmunds.com and Kelly Blue Book to price each car out.

Also... have you tried Autotrader.com?

The camry's have to engines. A 135hp 4 cylinder and a 190hp V6. So yes, they're both quicker than the prizm. Test drive both models.

[reluctantmechanic]

great advice from both of the above.

mechanic, carfax.

I think a prizm to camry would a rather big "step up"...as long as you're getting one that's been well maintained.

[reidcc]

I have not tried a Camry or Solara with the 4 cyl, but I have the 3.0 V6 in my Solara, and think it is just the epitome of smooth!!! The pickup, the smoothness and quiet just amaze me.

I don't think I'd even want a 4cyl.

Chris

[JohnGD]

Maybe that Camry is in similar condition as your Prizm (Corolla). The Corollas at the time were pretty solid (today's are kinda junk).

AAA has a Vehicle Inspection Program. About $45.

Originally Posted by Shawn5800

Hey guys, Im about to buy a 1999 Camry. I just have a few questions.

1. What would you pay for this?
http://worcester.craigslist.org/cto/2060688609.html

2.The vehicle im selling now is a 1998 Prizm with 173k. Is the engine in that camry any more powerful? Will i notice a difference in ride quality? I just really need something better for a long commute and my prizm is super tired and the transmission is starting to kinda of "fall" into gear. It no longer has quick smooth shifts which worries me. Now the starter is going. I figured now is the time to get rid of it before it really hits rock bottom.

3. Is this a good decision going from my prizm to this camry?....

Need help guys! thanks!

[camryto]

Originally Posted by LynchburgCSI

ALWAYS have a mechanic look at a used car if you don't know much about cars. Try to stay under 150k miles or so. They WILL last longer if take care of though. Prices... stay under $3500. Use edmunds.com and Kelly Blue Book to price each car out.

Also... have you tried Autotrader.com?

The camry's have to engines. A 135hp 4 cylinder and a 190hp V6. So yes, they're both quicker than the prizm. Test drive both models.

So, you think it's reasonable that one could expect to find a decent 4th gen. Camry for under $3500? I hope so!

Do all/most mechanics know to take the valve cover over to check the engine condition (for the sludging)? Or is that a given? You don't have to take the car to Toyota, right? Or it's just an inspection so take it to the local Toyota or does it matter?

[mr.nitro]

Originally Posted by reidcc

I have not tried a Camry or Solara with the 4 cyl, but I have the 3.0 V6 in my Solara, and think it is just the epitome of smooth!!! The pickup, the smoothness and quiet just amaze me.

I don't think I'd even want a 4cyl.

Chris

I guess it depends how important fuel economy is to you. I bought a 4cyl because I commute 2 hrs everyday for work. I needed to save some money.