Toyota Carina T170
The quintessentially reliable Japanese family saloon of the late eighties.
- Power
- 95 bhp
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$5k
About the Toyota Carina T170
The T170-generation Toyota Carina, marketed in Europe as the Carina II, represented a shift towards more rounded, aerodynamic styling and a complete transition to front-wheel drive. The 1.6 GL was the heart of the range, powered by the robust 4A-F engine which, in UK specification for 1989, utilised a twin-barrel carburettor to produce a dependable 95 PS. While it lacked the sporting pretensions of the earlier rear-drive models, it gained a legendary reputation for mechanical longevity and build quality. Today, it is a rare sight on British roads, valued by enthusiasts for its 'unburstable' nature and period-correct simplicity.
Toyota Carina T170 specs
The Toyota Carina T170 produces 95 bhp (71 kW) and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 111 mph (179 km/h).
| Make | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Model | Carina |
| Generation | T170 |
| Trim | 1.6 GL |
| Years | 1988–1992 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 1.6-litre 16-valve inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,587 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 95 bhp (71 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,300 rpm |
| Top speed | 111 mph (179 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 995 kg (2,194 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 95 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Toyota Carina T170 worth?
A typical Toyota Carina T170 is estimated to be worth $1,000 – $4,500 (about £746 – £3,400).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Toyota Carina T170 rarity in CarSpot
The Toyota Carina T170 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 12 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Toyota Carina T170 fun facts
- The T170 Carina was the first in the series to offer an optional driver-side airbag, a rarity for a mid-sized family car in the late 1980s.
- In the UK, the Carina II was so successful that it paved the way for Toyota to establish its own manufacturing plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire.
- The 4A-series engine used in this trim is a close relative of the high-revving 4A-GE found in the AE86, though tuned here for economy and mid-range torque.
