The Toyota Camry Solara Convertible, specifically the 3.0i V6 24V (198 hp) Automatic variant produced from 2001 to 2003, represented a significant step in Toyota’s attempt to capture a larger share of the personal luxury market in North America. This model, a facelift of the original Solara introduced in 1999, aimed to blend the reliability and practicality expected of a Camry with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible. It was positioned as a more upscale offering within the Camry lineup, competing with vehicles like the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Mazda MX-5 Miata, though offering a more spacious and comfortable interior geared towards grand touring rather than sporty handling. The Solara Convertible was built on the XV20 platform, shared with the Camry sedan, but featured unique bodywork and a retractable soft top.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry Solara I Convertible (Mark V, facelift 2001) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0i V6 24V (198 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 198 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 4400 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1MZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2994 cm3 (182.71 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 249 l (8.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4864 mm (191.5 in.) |
| Width | 1806 mm (71.1 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 3.0i Solara Convertible was the 1MZ-FE engine, a 3.0-liter (2994 cc) DOHC 24-valve V6. This engine was a mainstay in Toyota’s lineup for many years, known for its smooth operation and reasonable reliability. The 1MZ-FE utilized multi-port fuel injection and a 10.5:1 compression ratio to produce 198 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s architecture was relatively conventional for the time, featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designated ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent). This transmission was designed to provide smooth shifts and adapt to driving conditions, but it lacked the responsiveness of a manual transmission or more modern automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 198 hp and automatic transmission combination resulted in a comfortable, but not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for highway merging and passing, but the Solara Convertible wasn’t designed for quick sprints. The automatic transmission, while smooth, sometimes felt hesitant during downshifts, and the lack of manual control options limited driver engagement. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and cruising comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the optional VVT-i equipped engines available in other Camry models, the 1MZ-FE felt less eager to rev. The Solara’s weight, around 3472 lbs, further dampened performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0i V6 Automatic Solara Convertible typically came well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a premium offering. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, a CD player, and alloy wheels. Leather upholstery was often standard, and options included a premium sound system, power-adjustable seats, and a retractable hardtop (though this was less common). The interior design was generally conservative, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over stylistic flair. The dashboard layout was similar to that of the Camry sedan, with a focus on clear instrumentation and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Solara Convertible utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, but wasn’t particularly tuned for aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars were included at both ends to reduce body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system was adequate for everyday driving, but lacked the stopping power of more performance-oriented vehicles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Camry Solara Convertible was generally well-received by critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. However, it was often criticized for its lack of sporty handling and somewhat bland styling. Compared to the base 2.2-liter four-cylinder Solara, the 3.0i V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The V6 was the preferred choice for buyers who prioritized power and refinement. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V6 convertible, averaging around 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Reliability was generally excellent, consistent with Toyota’s overall reputation.
Legacy
The Toyota Camry Solara Convertible, particularly the 3.0i V6 Automatic variant, has become a relatively affordable and reliable used car option. The 1MZ-FE engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. While not a performance icon, the Solara Convertible offers a comfortable and enjoyable open-air driving experience. Parts availability remains good, and the car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain. Today, these vehicles are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a dependable and stylish convertible at a reasonable price.
