1997 Toyota Camry CE review from North America

The paint scratches easily. There are many tiny nicks and bumps all over the surface of the car. Hard to see from 10ft. away, though.

The tires had to be replaced (approx. $450 CAN) : due to regular use.

If you are buying a Camry, you MUST pay for better than average parts: this is not like my former Neon where I could try to shop in the bargain basement.

My 1997 Toyota Camry CE is not a sports car. The pickup can be a little sluggish at times. Luckily, I do not need a sports car.

It is HIGHLY dependable and reliable. We took it to Florida and back, NOT one problem. I got 650km Highway on ONE tank of gas!

Please note: the tailpipe hangs VERY low in the car, which was disturbing at first, but this is the case on most Camrys.

Of course, if you buy it, you HAVE to pay for it. Maintenance costs are higher than average (as opposed to a small car), but you GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR: amazing reliability! When I went to get an oil change the other day, I fumbled with the hood release, because I hadn't popped the hood in over 2 months! (a sign of my laziness I'm sure, but you can't go that long with a Neon).

My point of comparison is a 1995 Dodge Neon. The Neon was average, good gas mileage, but had engine light problems that would have cost $500 just to SHUT OFF the dang light.

The Camry is EXCELLENT, reliable, and relatively economical. The City gas mileage is average, but of course I'm comparing it with the smaller cars I've driven before. On the Highway it's SCARY how little gas it uses!

All the peace of mind of a $50,000 car, but half the price. Not as stylish as a Lexus or a Mercedes Benz, just a GREAT VALUE!