2001 Toyota Solara V6 or 4 Cyl?

[TitanT30]

I want to buy a 2001 Toyota Solara and I was wondering should I get a V6 or a 4 Cylinder? I have never owned a coupe or compact car before so I wouldn't know if a V6 is better or a 4 cylinder engine for every day use.

Thank you.

[Jason.MZW20]

Go with the V6. It's not unpractical and can get out of its own way. It's not, by today's standards, fast, but it's a nice quiet, smooth motor. I think you'll come away pleased with the V6. I have a 2000 Solara V6 in my MR2 and I love it.

The 4 cylinder, on the other hand, is noisy and terribly down on power. The 2002s received the newer 4 cylinder, but oddly enough, they're even noisier and harsher in tone.

[Yuko]

The V6 (1MZ-FE) has more power (about 190 hp), more torque, smoother, just a better power plant. It's a bit of a pain to change the back 3 spark plugs but what FWD V6 doesn't?

The 4 cylinders (5S-FE) which I have in my 2001 Camry (same in the Solara) is easier to maintain, overbuilt with a case iron block, and a bit easier on fuel. But you will suffer from the lack of power (about 130hp). In my case, 0-60 in 12 sec (automatic) and on the highway, the engine buzz just to pass others. It always has to down shift to power by. Many say it has a lot of low-end torque but I don't feel it.

Both engines use a timing belt changed at every 90k. The 4 cly will be easier to replace.

Bottom line, the 4 cly is good for light driving in city. The V6 helps a lot on long commutes and highways.

As a side note, the 2002 4 cylinder (2AZ-FE) has a much better kick with the help of the VVTi, the transmission also downshift less. It buzz a bit at higher rpm but most engine do anyway.