3rd & 4th Generation (1992–1996 & 1997–2001)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1992-1996 & 1997-2001
Topics of discussion range from fuel economy, safety, modifications, performance all involving America's favorite family car, the Toyota Camry.
Which is the better choice for a 3rd gen. wagon: 4 cyl or V6?
I like the idea of the 4 cylinder for easy of repair and lower cost compared to the V6.
The car will be mostly driven on the highway, so if the V6 is better for passing that may be a factor.
I'm looking for the best economy and they are so close for fuel mileage. I would be willing to have the V6 if the little bit of extra power is worth the extra hassle of repair and slightly less fuel efficiency.
I like the idea of the 4 cylinder for easy of repair and lower cost compared to the V6.
The car will be mostly driven on the highway, so if the V6 is better for passing that may be a factor.
I'm looking for the best economy and they are so close for fuel mileage. I would be willing to have the V6 if the little bit of extra power is worth the extra hassle of repair and slightly less fuel efficiency.
If you have kids and/or towing - go with the V6 - smoother ride and less noise on the highway or when accelerating under load.
Last edited by SilverSoarer; 05-12-2011 at 11:50 AM.
For the priorities you've identified, the 4 would be better. Consider how many miles you are driving and how much you'd be saving. It's only a 20-30 percent difference in economy. Like Soarer said, if you plan on getting toys to tow, go with the 6. I wasnt planning on getting a boat but the v6 wagon alowed me to. A 4 will handle kids just fine.
Get the V6 so you can tow a boat & have oversized loads & no brakes to stop them when needed! Yesterday 11:21 AM
That is true, most of the brakes on most model Camrys were not great. I have a '88 4 cyl that I tow a utility trailer with and engine braking comes in handy. I put less aggressive pad on, and wish I wouldn't have. Stopping in an emergency would be a real chore.
Quote:
How is it used again.
Are you able to try them first?
Commuter car, and you do not need to haul tools, equipment etc. 4 cyl.
Driving: City 30%, Highway 70%. Would be used only as a secondary towing vehicle, towing a few times a year at most, average of 1000 lbs or less.
No kids, but wife uses it as a work car, self employed and hauls materials (groceries/supplies, etc.) average payload would be driver + 300 lbs.
Would like to keep it as simple as possible, and considering what is available to buy (a lot of V6 out there)
Choice is yours, sure you'll have less maintenance with the 4 compared to the 6, then again, the 4 may not offer enough power for what you want the car to do, then again, the V-6 will cost more in maintenance than the 4 (rear spark plugs hard to get at, 24 instead of 16 valves), plus premium fuel is recommended, though it can run on regular with slight power loss and loss of economy, but it does have more power than the 4. If you do look at the V-6 make sure to ask for oil change receipts, since some of the V-6s are prone to engine sludge. Good luck
Trust me I am not jealous! I have a 2007 F-150 Crew Cab 5.4 3v with a 3.73 rear axle ratio & tow package that would tow you, your car, & your boat like nothing!.......(LOL).....You must be kiddin!.....
Trust me I am not jealous! I have a 2007 F-150 Crew Cab 5.4 3v with a 3.73 rear axle ratio & tow package that would tow you, your car, & your boat like nothing!.......(LOL).....You must be kiddin!.....
Not jealous of the wagon... - of the cajones it takes to tow with a Camry!
V6 isn't any harder to work on than the I4.. only thing that IS a little tougher is the rear 3 spark plugs.
I would go for the V6. Just about AS good on gas, and it has more power.
Thank you sir! It isn't all that much harder to work on a V6. The engine bay has a lot of space to work with on Camrys. Try working on a C35A1. That's a pain to work on
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1995 Toyota Camry V6 LE-6M1 250K Miles, Fun Car
1997 Acura RL-Gone
2007 Acura RL SH-AWD, Technology Package, Opulent Blue Pearl- Fun Car/Daily Driver
if no heavy towing involved, get 4 cyl:
-better MPG, especially HWY.
-better resale value, more popular (sorry V-6 owners).
-easier to work on and find used parts.
__________________ IndianaBorn gen7 LE. For sale gen 6: MdxTSXr black shrouds 5K retro OEM key with transmitter 2.4 transm.filter+gasket+WS. 2.4 K&N drop-in+cleaner and oil
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