1987 Toyota Camry from North America - Comments

Needed a new alternator at 160,000 miles.

Very rusted underneath. Radiator leaked because of the rust. Slow leak, didn't need fixing (at 150,000 miles). This car lived in a northern state where all cars eventually rust.

The car is finally beyond repair at 170,000 miles when the starter/flywheel finally wore down (common Camry problem).

Very, very dependable car. Hardly any problems ever.

Surprisingly powerful.

Very solid and fast. The car doesn't shutter until over 95MPH.

Engine still runs perfect at 170,000 miles.

However, it runs rough on normal gasoline, but using high-octane gas it runs smooth.

I loved this car, it would have run forever if it was properly taken care of.

I also have a 1987 camry. I got it at 147k and it is running fine at 168k. I also have the flywheel\starter problem. My flywheel eventually came loose, which is what I assume you are talking about by "undriveable". I took off the bottom crossmembers and removed the flywheel inspection plate. All I had to do was have someone turn the engine over while I tightened the 6 bolts and I popped the cover back on, re-attached the crossmembers and I was back in running condition in one day. Not too bad, I'd say. Also, didn't cost a thing! Still does the god awful grinding noise when starting once in a while, but a friend of mine has the same car, he replaced the starter and it did no good, so I have no idea. Just thought I'd let you know.