How much was a Toyota Camry in 1988?
In the United States, the 1988 Toyota Camry was priced in the low- to mid-teens of thousands of dollars, depending on trim and options. This article lays out historical pricing for the model year and the factors that affected sticker prices.
Pricing snapshot for the 1988 Camry
The Camry lineup in 1988 offered several trims and option packages. The following figures reflect rough U.S. MSRPs before delivery charges and taxes, as listed in period brochures.
Prices varied by trim and options. Below is a general range for the U.S. market in 1988:
- Base model: around $12,000
- Mid-range trim: around $13,500–$14,500
- Top-trim with common options: around $15,000–$16,000
Note: These figures are MSRP estimates. Actual transaction prices varied by region, dealer, and time during the model year, and could include freight, handling, and optional equipment.
Context and historical factors
The Camry's price reflected its position as a mid-size sedan competing with rivals such as the Honda Accord. The 1980s saw inflation and evolving trim levels, with Toyota emphasizing reliability and fuel efficiency, which influenced pricing and consumer demand.
Summary
In 1988, a new Toyota Camry typically carried an MSRP in the low-to-mid teens in the United States, with base models near $12,000 and well-equipped versions approaching $16,000. Actual prices varied by trim, options, taxes, and dealer agreements.
