Toyota Camry 1996–2001 car dimensions: 4783 mm long, 1780 mm wide and 1416 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,400 kg. Braked towing is 907 kg.
Dual front airbags are standard across the range. ABS is optional on base CE four-cylinder models and standard on other grades. Air conditioning is optional on CE and standard on LE and XLE, with automatic climate control fitted to XLE. Cruise control is optional on CE and standard on LE and XLE. The cabin has a redesigned layout with better ergonomics, larger glovebox, dual front and rear cupholders, overhead console, tilt steering wheel, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Audio is AM/FM cassette, with premium options available. No advanced electronic driver aids are listed.
Trunk volume measures 14.1 cubic feet. The 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks provide pass-through access for longer items while retaining some seating.
Maximum towing capacity is 2000 lbs with a dealer-installed towing package. Vehicle capacity weight for occupants and luggage is 410 kg. The All-Weather Guard package adds heavy-duty battery, starter and alternator. Split-folding seats aid light cargo and work duties.
The cabin feels roomy and quiet with a longer wheelbase adding rear legroom, lower cowl for better visibility, and noise-vibration measures including fluid-filled mounts and damping panels. Cloth seats are supportive with manual adjustments standard. higher grades add power multi-way front seats and optional leather. Air conditioning, dual front-rear cupholders, overhead console, and tilt wheel come standard or on LE/XLE. Optional power moonroof available on mid and top grades.
EPA fuel economy 23 city/31 highway mpg on 2.2L 4-cyl with 5-speed manual
ABS standard on all but optional on CE 4-cyl
IIHS Good overall in moderate overlap frontal test for 1997-2001
Dual front airbags standard. side-door beams and crumple zones
Timing belt service at 90,000 miles on both engines
Oil changes at 7,500 miles under normal conditions
The 2.2-liter four-cylinder delivers solid economy with EPA estimates of 23/31 mpg manual or lower with automatic. the 3.0-liter V6 trades some efficiency for stronger power at around 19/26 mpg combined depending on setup. Regular unleaded fuels both engines.
Servicing centers on oil and filter every 7,500 miles or six months normal duty, with timing belt and water pump due at 90,000 miles for the 4-cyl and V6. Coolant and brake fluid follow 30,000-mile marks. transmission fluid checks align with major services.
Safety kit includes standard dual front airbags, three-point belts at all seats with adjustable anchors, child door locks, and side-impact beams. ABS is standard except on base 4-cyl CE where optional. traction control available on V6 LE/XLE. IIHS rates the structure Good in moderate overlap with controlled kinematics. NHTSA gives four stars frontal for driver and passenger on 1997 models.
Keeping the car means sticking to the timing belt interval to avoid engine damage, watching for typical wear on suspension bushings and rear drums if equipped, and using the full-size spare. High build quality supports long life with basic upkeep. optional keyless entry and alarm add security.
Length 4783 mm, Width 1780 mm, Height 1416 mm, Wheelbase 2670 mm (Camry 1996–2001)
Sources: manufacturer data, Toyota 1997 Camry Owner's Manual, Toyota 1997 Product Source, autoevolution and Motor Trend.