Used Toyota Carina for sale

By modern standards, the Carina's safety kit is basic. Most models have a driver airbag, side-impact bars, and seatbelt pretensioners. Later and higher-spec versions may offer a passenger airbag and anti-lock brakes, but not always as standard. Don't expect curtain airbags or electronic driving aids.

The most common engines you'll find on the Carina E are the 1.6-litre and 1.8-litre petrols. There's a 2.0-litre diesel, but that's rare, and 1.8-litre lean-burn petrols from the 1996 relaunch. All petrol engines are four-cylinder. Automatic and manual transmissions are available in all body types.

In early models, tech was modest even when new, but improved over the years. Expect a radio and cassette player, basic heating and ventilation, central locking, and on higher trims, electric front windows. Later Carina E models offer immobilisers and some have air conditioning, though it’s worth checking if this works well today.

For a 1990s family car, the Carina E is frugal. The 1.6-litre petrol offers around 35-40mpg combined, depending on gearbox and condition. The 1.8-litre lean-burn petrol can hit 50mpg on the motorway. Diesels offer better economy but are rarer, typically noisier, and slower.

Look for rust on wheel arches, doors, and sills, signs of worn suspension and perished rubber seals. Test electrics and check for a comprehensive service history, since neglected maintenance can affect reliability. For extra reassurance, consider booking The AA Vehicle Inspection.

The Carina has one of the steadiest reputations for reliability of any 1990s car. If well maintained, engines and gearboxes can reach very high mileages without failure. However, as most are now quite old, it’s important to thoroughly check body condition and mechanical performance.