The Toyota Crown X Saloon, specifically the S150 series produced from 1997 to 1998, represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage. This facelifted version of the S150, introduced in 1997, offered a diesel engine option in the form of the 2.4 DT 16V, producing 97 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. This variant occupied a unique position within the Crown lineup, aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising over outright performance. It was primarily sold in the Japanese domestic market (JDM), where large sedans with diesel engines were popular due to their economy and suitability for long distances.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Saloon (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 DT 16V (97 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.6 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 64.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 146.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 39.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 2400 rpm (163 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2L-TE |
| Engine displacement | 2446 cm3 (149.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 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) | 155 mm (6.1 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 was the 2L-TE, a 2.4-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in older diesel designs, where a small pre-chamber is used to initiate combustion before the main chamber. This design aids in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise. The 2L-TE also featured a turbocharger, which significantly boosted power output for its displacement. The engine’s single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain was a relatively simple design, prioritizing reliability and ease of maintenance. The four-speed automatic transmission was a conventional hydraulic unit, chosen for its smoothness and ease of use, aligning with the Crown’s luxury-oriented character. While not a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 DT Automatic Crown offered a comfortable, albeit not particularly sporty, driving experience. With 97 horsepower, acceleration was modest, and overtaking required careful planning. However, the 221 Nm (163 lb-ft) of torque available from 2400 rpm provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth shifts, rather than aggressive performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered Crown variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. It also differed substantially from higher-performance Crown models equipped with larger engines, which prioritized acceleration and handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1997-1998 Crown X Saloon 2.4 DT Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather options were available as upgrades. Dashboard configuration was functional and straightforward, reflecting the car’s focus on practicality and comfort. Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, power-adjustable seats, and alloy wheels. The trim level generally positioned this variant as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the more basic models and the fully-equipped luxury trims.
Chassis & Braking
The 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 smoothness rather than sporty handling. Braking consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. The 185/70 R14 tires offered a good balance of comfort and grip. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics were geared towards relaxed cruising rather than aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown 2.4 DT Automatic was well-received in the Japanese market as a practical and economical luxury sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered Crown variants, the diesel offered superior fuel economy but lower acceleration. It also differed from the more powerful Crown models in terms of refinement and overall driving experience. Reliability was generally considered to be good, typical of Toyota products of the era. The diesel engine, while robust, required regular maintenance to ensure longevity.
Legacy
The Toyota Crown X Saloon 2.4 DT Automatic, while not a particularly rare or collectible model, represents a significant chapter in Toyota’s history. It showcased the company’s ability to offer a comfortable and economical luxury sedan with a diesel engine. Today, these cars are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts of JDM vehicles and classic Toyotas. The 2L-TE engine, while aging, is known for its durability and relatively simple mechanical design, making it a viable option for those seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient classic car. However, finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, and parts availability may be limited. The Crown’s enduring reputation for quality and comfort ensures its continued appeal in the used car market.
