The Toyota Crown X Saloon (S150 series, post-facelift introduced in 1997) represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Produced from 1998 through 1999, the S150 offered a blend of luxury, comfort, and reliability, appealing to a more conservative clientele. This particular variant, the 2.0 24V producing 160 horsepower, occupied a middle ground within the Crown X Saloon range, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It served as a more accessible entry point compared to the higher-displacement engines, while still providing the prestige associated with the Crown nameplate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Saloon (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 24V (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4400 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1G-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1988 cm3 (121.32 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.0 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Crown variant is the 1G-FE engine, a 2.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine is known for its smoothness and relative reliability. The ‘FE’ designation signifies Toyota’s fuel-efficient engine series. The 1G-FE utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for optimized combustion. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating 24 valves (four per cylinder) to enhance volumetric efficiency and power output. The 5-speed manual transmission was a common pairing, offering drivers a more engaging experience. The transmission itself is a conventional design, prioritizing durability and smooth shifts over outright sportiness.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1G-FE and 5-speed manual combination resulted in respectable, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was estimated to be around 9-10 seconds. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although the Crown X Saloon was primarily designed for comfortable cruising rather than aggressive cornering. Compared to the larger 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter engines available in the Crown lineup, this 2.0-liter version offered a more economical driving experience, with improved fuel efficiency. However, it lacked the effortless power and responsiveness of its larger siblings. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the gear ratios were tuned for relaxed highway driving, rather than spirited acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 24V Crown X Saloon typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, though leather options were available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over flashy design. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats. The trim level sat in the middle of the Crown range, offering a step up from the base models but falling short of the luxury appointments found in the top-tier trims.
Chassis & Braking
The S150 Crown X Saloon utilized a double wishbone suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned for absorbing bumps and minimizing body roll. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. While adequate for everyday driving, the braking system wasn’t particularly powerful compared to more modern vehicles. The 14-inch wheels were fitted with 185/70 R14 tires, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0-liter Crown X Saloon was generally well-received in the Japanese market as a practical and reliable family sedan. Critics praised its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some noted that the performance was somewhat underwhelming compared to competitors. In terms of fuel economy, the 2.0-liter version offered a noticeable improvement over the larger-displacement engines, making it an attractive option for drivers prioritizing efficiency. Reliability was a strong point, with the 1G-FE engine proving to be durable and long-lasting. Compared to the 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter Crown variants, the 2.0-liter model appealed to a more budget-conscious buyer who still desired the prestige of the Crown nameplate.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown X Saloon (S150) 2.0 24V remains a respected vehicle among enthusiasts of Japanese classic cars. The 1G-FE engine is known for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. Parts availability can be a challenge outside of Japan, but the engine’s robust design means that it can often withstand years of use with proper care. In the used car market, these Crowns are typically sought after for their classic styling, comfortable ride, and reputation for reliability. While not a performance icon, the 2.0-liter variant represents a well-rounded and dependable option within the Crown X Saloon lineup, offering a taste of Japanese luxury and engineering from the late 1990s.
