1992 Toyota Cressida Grande review from Australia and New Zealand

Old rocker cover gaskets allowed oil to leak into the spark plug wells.

Old spark plug leads were cracking and needed replacing.

This model was a great car that was badly missed when withdrawn from the Australian market in January 1993. (Production continued in Japan where the model is still known as a Mark II). Body shape is conservative, but stylish and has not dated. Interior is well laid out and the Grande model comes with leather, CD player, cruise control, climate control, power windows, mirrors, steering and ABS brakes. Mine has an optional electric sunroof fitted which is nice. Performance is brisk - the 7M-GE engine produces 142 kilowatts of power which compares well with 3 liter V6 engines made today by Toyota and others. Low gearing assists acceleration, but does not help fuel consumption when cruising. The four speed auto transmission is the A340E model used in the older Lexus SC 400s and LS 400s so it is smooth and tough.

When buying, check that the cam belt has been replaced at 100,000 kms and that the head gasket is fine (these are the engine's only weakness).

Overall, a very nice car if you can find a well kept and serviced example. The later models manufactured in 1991 and 1992 are the ones to aim for as they had some minor refinements and improvements over the 89 and 90 models.