• Seller: Jim E verts
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Mileage: 89,700 Shown
• Chassis #: JT2VV22E7K0048120
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 2.5-Liter 6-Cylinder
• Transmission: Automatic

Although it could not have been known then, the release of the original Camry in 1979 marked the moment when the badge would become the backbone of Toyota’s model range until the present day. It evolved significantly during those years, and this 1989 Camry LE demonstrates how it transformed from what was almost a niche vehicle to a car that was a practical daily driver. Adding to this survivor’s appeal is its V6 engine, providing exceptional performance. The owner feels that the time is right for this classic to find a new home, listing it exclusively with us at Barn Finds with an asking price of $4,500.

Toyota released its “V20” version of the Camry in 1986, remaining on sale until 1992. It was warmly embraced by North American buyers, setting a new sales record of 151,767 cars during its first year. By 1989, that tally had risen to 255,252, cementing its place in the new car market. This 1989 example is a range-topping LE variant ordered by its first owner in Dark Red Pearl. The paint finish is consistent with an unrestored survivor. It retains a warm glow, with only minor chips and marks. The exception is the hood, and as you will see when you scroll through the image gallery, it requires a repaint. The only rust is a minor section located over the rear wheel well. Otherwise, the panels are straight, and the gaps are as tight and consistent as you would expect to find from a Japanese manufacturer firmly focused on build quality. The plastic trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.

Lifting the hood reveals what I consider to be one of the best engines to power any Japanese car from the 1980s. The 2VZ-FE is a 2.5-liter quad-cam, 24-valve fuel-injected V6 producing 156hp and 160 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to the front wheels via a four-speed A540E automatic transmission with a power mode to improve acceleration. These engines are as smooth as silk, providing class-leading performance and fuel economy for a car of this type from this era. The owner has recently splashed some cash on this classic, and the buyer will benefit from this attention. He replaced the timing belts, water pump, brakes, alternator, radiator, power steering pump, axle, control arms, and battery. The results justified the cost and effort, as this Camry runs and drives extremely well. He says that the engine produces plenty of power, a claim that I find readily believable. Potential buyers can consider this a turnkey proposition that could serve as a practical daily driver.

Considering the exterior paint shade and the LE’s position as the range-topping Camry, it is unsurprising to find the interior trimmed in plush Burgundy cloth. The driver’s seat exhibits slight wear, but that appears to be the only visible shortcoming. Personally, I’d probably install a set of high-quality slipcovers to hide the problem, because there is no evidence that the upholstered surfaces are in danger of developing splits or holes. Toyota focused heavily on build quality with these cars as it strived to become the market leader. It spent a considerable sum on plastic development, helping to explain why deterioration of interior components is rarely an issue. This car is no exception, with no evidence of problems that might cause concern. It is also nicely equipped by the standards of the day, featuring ice-cold air conditioning that was recently converted. The heater blows hot, while the buyer receives power windows, a rear defogger, a multi-adjustable driver’s seat, a tilt wheel, intermittent wipers with timer delay adjustment, and a factory tachometer. The owner states that the passenger seat adjuster is stuck, but that is the only functional fault. They have an extra set of front seats, which are said to be in very nice condition, in blue that are included with the car.

I am drawn almost irresistibly to this 1989 Toyota Camry LE for two main reasons. The first is that I like the styling, which has aged remarkably well over the past thirty-six years. However, that V6 engine is the ace up its sleeve, perfectly combining performance, excellent fuel economy, and exceptional refinement. This car’s cosmetic needs are relatively minor, raising the possibility that someone could address them in a home workshop without spending a fortune. Those factors and Toyota’s legendary reputation for build quality and reliability make this Camry worth more than a passing glance.