The Toyota Crown X Royal (S150, facelifted in 1997) represented a continuation of Toyota’s flagship sedan lineage, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and reliability aimed at the Japanese domestic market. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter 1G-FE engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the S150 range, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Production of this specific configuration spanned from 1997 to 1998, falling within the broader S150 generation which ran from 1995 to 1999. The facelift in 1997 brought subtle styling updates and refinements to the interior, enhancing the Crown’s appeal.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | Crown X Royal (S150, facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 24V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 181 Nm @ 4400 rpm (133.5 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 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 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 | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1490 mm (58.66 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Crown X Royal 2.0 was the 1G-FE engine, a 2.0-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a staple in Toyota’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its smooth operation and relative reliability. The 1G-FE featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 140 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 181 Nm (133.5 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. This transmission wasn’t known for its sportiness, prioritizing refinement over aggressive gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L/Automatic combination in the Crown X Royal delivered a comfortable, rather than sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but it wasn’t particularly quick. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic transmissions with additional gears. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, resulting in a noticeable delay during overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 3.0-liter variants of the Crown, this 2.0-liter model felt noticeably less energetic. However, it offered a significant improvement in fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers prioritizing practicality.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crown X Royal trim level, even with the 2.0-liter engine, was well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a quality audio system. The interior was generally finished with comfortable cloth upholstery, although leather options were available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, emphasizing ease of use. Optional extras could include features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and power-adjustable seats. The X Royal trim aimed to provide a luxurious experience without the higher price tag of the top-of-the-line trims.
Chassis & Braking
The S150 Crown utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension system employed double wishbone setups at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was power-assisted, making maneuvering easy, although it lacked the precision of more modern steering systems. The 195/65 R15 tires provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Crown X Royal 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received in the Japanese market as a practical and reliable luxury sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and build quality. However, some noted that the 2.0-liter engine felt underpowered compared to the larger engine options. Fuel economy was a strong point, making it an attractive option for drivers concerned about running costs. Compared to the 3.0-liter Crown variants, the 2.0-liter model offered a more affordable entry point into the Crown lineup, appealing to a broader range of buyers. The 1.8L automatic was often seen as a sensible choice for urban commuting and long-distance highway driving.
Legacy
The 1G-FE engine, in general, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant, with many examples still running today. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern units, is also known for its longevity. The Crown X Royal 2.0 Automatic has become a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a classic Japanese sedan that offers a comfortable ride and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these models are generally affordable and represent a good value for those seeking a well-built and reliable vehicle. While not a performance icon, the Crown X Royal 2.0 Automatic remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to quality and durability.
