Toyota Solara 1st Gen
The first-generation Solara blended Camry reliability with sportier coupe and convertible styling. It's an accessible entry into modern classic ownership, with collectors seeking out well-kept examples equipped with the V6 engine and 5-speed manual transmission.
Find one with Spotter →Toyota Solara 1st Gen sold for a median of $4,200 over the last 12 months, based on 7 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $700 and $6,450. 113 currently for sale.
Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Toyota Solara was a two-door coupe and convertible based on the best-selling Camry platform. It was designed to offer Camry-level reliability with more expressive styling to attract a younger audience. Powertrain choices included a durable 2.2L 4-cylinder or a smooth 3.0L V6, paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a desirable 5-speed manual transmission.
The Solara's appeal lies in its combination of 1990s Japanese coupe aesthetics and Toyota's reputation for longevity. For enthusiasts, the V6 paired with the 5-speed manual is the most coveted configuration, offering a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Convertibles provide an affordable and dependable open-air option, while coupes serve as comfortable and stylish daily drivers or first classics.
With an average sale price around $5,200, the Solara market is still very accessible. While most traded examples are high-mileage drivers, values for clean, low-mileage cars, particularly V6 manuals, are beginning to firm up. It's a great entry point for collectors looking for a reliable and usable modern classic before values start to climb.
Buying Tips
- The 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6 can be prone to oil sludging if maintenance was neglected. Check for a consistent oil change history.
- The timing belt on both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines is a critical service item that should be replaced every 90,000 miles.
- Rust can appear in the rear quarter panels and around suspension mounting points, so a thorough underbody inspection is essential, especially for cars from wet or snowy climates.
- On convertibles, test the power top's operation and inspect the fabric for tears and the plastic rear window for yellowing or cracks.
- Dashboards are known to crack with prolonged sun exposure, so check for interior condition and verify all electronics work as intended.
Prices range from $395 for project cars to $10,550 for well-preserved, low-mileage examples.
189 Toyota Solara 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 113 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Toyota Solara 1st Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Toyota Solara 1st Gen sold for a median of $4,200 across 7 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $700 and $6,450. There are 113 currently for sale.
How many Toyota Solara 1st Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 113 Toyota Solara 1st Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.