Toyota Crown RS
The first passenger car developed and built entirely in Japan, launching a legendary automotive dynasty.
- Power
- 48 bhp
- Top speed
- 62 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$45k
About the Toyota Crown RS
The Toyopet Crown RS, introduced in 1955, represents a pivotal moment in Japanese automotive history as the first passenger car designed and manufactured using 100% domestic technology. Developed to meet the needs of the Japanese taxi market and emerging middle class, it featured a robust ladder-frame chassis and a double-wishbone independent front suspension, which was advanced for its time. Its distinctive 'suicide' rear-hinged doors and reliable 1.5-litre Type R engine earned it a reputation for durability. While it struggled in the US market as the first Japanese car exported there in 1957, it established the Crown as Toyota's longest-running passenger car nameplate.
Toyota Crown RS specs
The Toyota Crown RS produces 48 bhp (36 kW) and 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h).
| Make | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Model | Crown |
| Generation | RS |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1955–1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 1.5-litre Type R I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,453 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 48 bhp (36 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 62 mph (100 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,210 kg (2,668 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 40 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 Crown RS worth?
A typical Toyota Crown RS is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $45,000 (about £11,000 – £34,000).
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 Crown RS rarity in CarSpot
The Toyota Crown RS is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 Crown RS fun facts
- The RS Crown featured rear-hinged 'suicide' doors, a design choice intended to make it easier for taxi passengers to enter and exit the vehicle.
- It was the first Japanese car to be officially exported to the United States, arriving in 1957, though it proved underpowered for American highways.
- The Crown was developed during a time when most Japanese manufacturers were building European cars under licence, making its domestic engineering a point of national pride.
