Genesis of the Toyota Camry: 1980 to 1986

Originally launched as the Toyota Celica Camry in January 1980 for the Japanese home market, this model was essentially a second-generation Toyota Carina with updated body-styling and a front-end that resembled a 1978 Toyota Celica XX (known as the Celica Supra in export markets). The car used the rear-wheel drive Celica platform (which was shared by both the Corona and Carina) and was powered by either a 1.6 L 12T-U engine producing 88 hp or a 1.8 L 13T-U engine producing 95 hp. Towards the end of its model lifecycle, Toyota introduced a sports version of the Celica Camry equipped with the 16-valve DOHC 2.0 L engine from the Celica. This is the most sought after version of the Celica Camry in the secondhand market today.

In 1983, the Toyota Camry became an independent model line with front wheel drive; buyers could choose between a mid-size four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. Camry was positioned above the Carina and Corona, two other mid-sized models made by Toyota. A twin was announced at this point: the Toyota Vista.

In the US, the Camry was available with a 92 hp 2.0 L I4 engine or a 74 hp 2.0 L I4 turbodiesel engine, and could be purchased with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic, quite unusual for the time — especially given its three modes, for economy, normal driving, and power.

In contrast to the rear-wheel drive Celica Camry, the Toyota Camry was a front-wheel drive vehicle built on an all-new platform. For Americans, the Camry replaced the rear-wheel-drive Corona, a small, rust-prone vehicle whose name was related to the word crown - which was the name of a different model (the Japanese word for crown is pronounced like “camry.”) The original humble Camry was to become America's best selling car, as well as the basis for a luxury car (Lexus ES300) and a full-sized highway cruiser (Toyota Avalon).

The first generation Camry was available in sedan and hatchback versions (both with four doors). A 73 - 79 hp turbodiesel (with high torque and an extra 3 mpg or so) was actually optional in the US from 1984 to 1986, but it's quite rare.

The car was generally very reliable though many people had problems with the oil pump gaskets on early models, as well as the electronic ignition computer and the automatic transmission (an advanced design offering four speeds).

The Camry was relatively large for a Japanese car, with a 102 inch wheelbase, in keeping with its Americanized design. Its four cylinder engine produced 92 horsepower, which was good for the time; it had far more torque than the Accord’s engine, too. Both a hatchback and sedan were available – with four doors only.  Transmissions were a five-speed manual or automatic. The engine was eager to run, with a high-tech, high-pitched sound when revved high. It's easy to laugh at 92 horsepower, but in a light body and with a five-speed stick (or, later, a four-speed automatic), the Camry could outrace many cars with bigger engines and more weight.

The front and rear suspensions were both independent, with MacPherson struts, resulting in a comfortable ride but a loose feel. The 1984 versions had a 73 horsepower four cylinder turbodiesel option, with a five-speed manual. A new front clip was added in 1985, along with a new instrument panel, new climate controls, and a larger glove compartment. Electronic gauges were optional on the LE. The tilt wheel was made standard in 1985 as well, but the automatic transmission no longer had an economy mode; and the diesel was extended to an automatic transmission.

The Camry’s comfort, sound insulation, gas mileage, and reliability soon made it a big seller. Work soon began on an American factory in Georgetown, Kentucky, which would be Toyota’s second American plant and their first non-union plant – as well as their first plant to be built independently (the first one, which built Corollas, was a joint venture with General Motors).

The first generation lasted only four years, during which two more horsepower were found and flush mounted headlights added for better airflow (in 1985). In 1985, the Camry was top in J.D. Power's new car 90-day survey.

In its final year on the first generation, 1986, the Camry was bumped to 95 horsepower with the gas engine, 79 with the diesel; Consumer's Digest rated it a Best Buy; it would remain on that list as an almost permanent feature. The diesel and LE were no longer available with a manual transmission. In this final year, the power brakes were updated, and the LE gained new cloth.

First generation repairs

Buyers of 1983-84 Camrys may find issues with the oil pump gaskets and igniton module; timing belts had to be replaced every 50,000 miles, somewhat more quickly than most cars. Seat belts should be inspected on any Camry of this generation. There were recalls in 1983 and 1984.

The main Camry page | 1987-1991 | 1992 and onwards

Photos are courtesy of Toyota.