Most desirable model/ year

[WellWell]

greetings:
I've prowled past threads and haven't seen any issues with this car.
Any comments on which year is most desirable? I am undecided between the 6 or 4 powerwise.
Thanks

WW

[jetbtkng]

well i have an 02 solara sle v6 and i get about 30 mpg hwy and about 22 city i also have an 01 camry le 4 cyl about 31 mpg hwy and 24 city i would suggest the v6 and the best body style is model years 1999-2003 for the solara but thats my opinion, jetbtkng................

[MrKrispy1183]

I'm also biased, Gen 1-1.5 V6s, 1999-2003.

[nemoxfishy]

love my 99 v6

[Gadgetjq]

WW,

There are no major issues with either the Gen I or Gen II Solara. They're Toyota so as far as mechanical devices go about the most reliable you'll find on the planet.

The styling between the two is probably the #1 decider. Some prefer the old body style over the new one, others the opposite. There are content differences. The Gen II car gives a nod to portable music players with audio ports and even built in bluetooth for phones that the Gen I car doesn't have.

The Gen I cars will, I'd expect, tend to have more mileage on them if that's a concern for you. On the other hand they'd also tend to be less expensive.

The 4 cylinder engine will give you better fuel mileage but the V6 will make getting up to highway speeds from a dead stop a little less dicey. Which engine depends a lot on the type of driving you do. If you just putt around town mostly then the 4cyl should do nicely.

I'd suggest making a list of items you really want in your next car then compare the two models and see which meets your needs best.

Cheers

[Captain Gort]

I just bought a 2003 2.4 SE ragtop. This little guy delivered 34 mpg coming up highway 5 from LA to SF. And that's why I bought this RARE model! Also have a 99 SLE V6 coupe, which gets about 5-6 mpg less. Both run great...love them.

[timefourfood]

I like Gen 1 look, looks long and sleek.

I have a 2000 SLE auto coupe and got 34mpg on hwy 5 form LA to the Bay too. Unfortunately I get low 20s in city, I don't like that big of a range. Wish I can improve mpg.

[DragonXJC]

Originally Posted by MrKrispy1183

I'm also biased, Gen 1-1.5 V6s, 1999-2003.

Same here

[Timbits93]

This is my opinion.

Exterior = 1.5 Gen
Interior = 2 Gen

But if i had to choose, it would be tough :P

[texas zulu]

I have a 2007 Sport...I love it. Having owned smallish cars all my life, this was my first venture into the grownup world. I love the cockpit styling and feel. It just looks classy. AT this stage in my life, a smaller sports car was sort of out of the question...bad knees. I love how it feels on the road. It is a tight car. It has the V6 engine so i don't have to fear getting left behind on the highways. If you need that extra punch to get out into traffic, it's there. really one of the best cars i have ever owned. Lifetime Toyota owner. Three Corollas, one Camry, one RAV, my daughter has a Yaris and son has a Tundra. Oh yeah, my Solara.

[toytim]

We have 2-2000 Solara's. One convertible 4 cyl auto and one v6 5-speed coupe and we find the gas milage to be very close between the two. We prefer this body style as it's long and smooth looking, the next gens seem to get a bit more rounded off but they are still a beautiful car.
Tim

[LEE337]

Gen 1 all the way!!!!
I love the way the front end looks. The Gen 1.5 is ok, but I love love love the Gen 1. I cant stand the Gen 1.5 tails. I like the Gen 2 interior and it would be awesome if somebody could convert my Gen 1 dash to a Gen 2 dash. Plus the Gen 2 doesnt offer a supercharger unless you redo the whole engine. Thats what I want next is a TRD Supercharger!!!

Like stated above, weigh out your options. Make a list of what you want in a Solara and make your decision. Either way your getting a Toyota and they rock.
Good Luck!!!