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.
Run a business in this market?
Get Hypercars OS
