The Toyota Crown, a luxury vehicle produced in Japan since 1955, has long been positioned as Toyota’s premium offering. In North America, the first four generations were available from 1958 to 1972, later replaced by the Corona Mark II.
The Crown nameplate returned to North America in 2022 with the launch of the 16th generation. Partially succeeded in export markets by its close relative, the Lexus GS (introduced in 1991 as the Toyota Aristo), both models share platforms and drivetrain options. Later GS and Crown models exhibit strong aesthetic ties through shared design cues.
In 2022, Toyota introduced four distinct Crown models to replace the 15th generation. The first, a Crossover variant, debuted in 2022, followed by the Sedan, Sport, and Estate models in 2023 and 2024. These models offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fuel-cell options depending on the variant.
In Vietnam, the Toyota Crown is iconic, often used as a government vehicle. Notably, a prominent businessman is an avid collector of not just supercars, classics, sports cars, and American SUVs, but also Toyota Crowns, regardless of the variant.
Frequently spotted driving a 1971 Toyota Crown Custom in blue, he recently shifted his preference to a 6th-generation Crown Wagon. Its appearance on the roads quickly captured public attention.
The exterior features glossy black paint and silver dual-spoke wheels, while the interior boasts bold red leather upholstery. Despite customizations, the cabin retains the owner’s essentials: a cigar ashtray and coffee holder.
Launched in 1979, this model upgraded its engine from 2.6L to 2.8L 5M-EU. The 2.0L M engine remained available, including a turbocharged variant (M-TEU). Carbureted 5M engines were offered in select markets. Model designations reflected engine displacement: MS110 (2.0L), MS111 (2.6L), MS112 (2.8L).
This marked the final generation with a four-cylinder gasoline engine. Introduced in Germany in 1980, the 2.8L fuel-injected engine delivered 145 PS in Europe, while the 2.2L diesel offered 66 PS with manual or automatic transmission options (automatic unavailable in the Station Wagon).
Initial European sales were strong but plummeted in 1982 due to soaring prices caused by the rising yen. Early models featured dual rectangular headlights, replaced by larger single units in later versions.
The Royal Saloon for Japan featured larger rectangular headlights, while lower-tier models like the Van and Taxi used round headlights. The Royal Saloon had a longer front bumper and larger engine, classified under higher road tax brackets per Japanese regulations.
Japan’s first Crown Turbo, launched in October 1980, offered a 2.0L engine for tax efficiency and better fuel economy compared to larger engines.
The turbocharger enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with Japan’s 1970s tax laws based on controlled emissions.
In export markets like Southeast Asia, larger carbureted six-cylinder engines were offered. The 2.6L produced 110 PS (SAE net), while the 2.8L claimed 128 PS (DIN) or 120 PS (SAE net). Indonesian sales were low, and this generation was not replaced there in 1984 with the Crown 120 series.
This was the final generation with a two-door hardtop coupe, succeeded by the Soarer. Reflecting 1970s trends, the coupe featured a vinyl roof and “opera” windows for a luxurious look.
Options included an electronic compass, glass sunroof, power-adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, electronic radio tuner, and two-tone paint. The automatic climate control featured separate rear passenger controls and a mini-fridge cooled by a dedicated rear air conditioning system.
A 2.4L turbocharged diesel engine, introduced in August 1982, also powered Mr. Vu’s Toyota Crown Wagon.
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