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First Car Dilemma!!!! - Car Talk - Nairaland

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First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 9:50pm On Mar 10, 2017
Hi everyone

I am torn between a corrolla, camry and an avalon.

Honestly, the avalon has all the features I desire but I am being a bit sceptical about its maintenance as I understand it is on the high side.

Now, opinions based on actual experiences are needed...which of the trio would be most suitable for driving on our "unique" kind of roads as this would be used to commute daily(45mins drive~one way, i.e 90mins to&fro)

Also base thy opinions on fuel economy and ease of maintenance...i'd be reading comments(the purchase is going to be ASAP so SOS please!!!)
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by nurey(m): 10:01pm On Mar 10, 2017
derbylicious:
Hi everyone

I am torn between a corrolla, camry and an avalon.

Honestly, the avalon has all the features I desire but I am being a bit sceptical about its maintenance as I understand it is on the high side.

Now, opinions based on actual experiences are needed...which of the trio would be most suitable for driving on our "unique" kind of roads as this would be used to commute daily(45mins drive~one way, i.e 90mins to&fro)

Also base thy opinions on fuel economy and ease of maintenance...i'd be reading comments(the purchase is going to be ASAP so SOS please!!!)

When asking for help always put year of cars you are looking at, or if not too personal your budget. It's only with this we can recommend something for you.

Corolla 4 cylinder only most fuel efficiency among the lot, thief magnet

Camry 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder, bigger than corolla also fuel efficient, robber magnet

Avalon, 6cylinder only no need to talk too much it's a luxurious ride and solid. Good as an everyday ride and occasion buster. Partially good on gas too. Parts aren't cheap though. Police magnet

10 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by layifioren(m): 10:04pm On Mar 10, 2017
First, is the Camry a 4 or 6 cylinder? If it is 6 cylinders, it has the same motor/engine as the Avalon and mechanically they are virtually the same. It's only in appearance that they really differ and their fuel consumption is similar.

Now, what year(s) are you looking at?
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by tolulinks(m): 12:09am On Mar 11, 2017
All these kinds of dilemma make me wanna shake my head. I cannot understand how you can be torn by a compact car, a mid sized car and a large full sized car. Beggars belief.

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 7:57am On Mar 11, 2017
layifioren:
First, is the Camry a 4 or 6 cylinder? If it is 6 cylinders, it has the same motor/engine as the Avalon and mechanically they are virtually the same. It's only in appearance that they really differ and their fuel consumption is similar.

Now, what year(s) are you looking at?

The camry and corrolla are both 4 cylinders, the avalon is 6.
The avalon is a 2000 model, the camry's 2005 and corrolla's 2003(CE)
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 8:02am On Mar 11, 2017
tolulinks:
All these kinds of dilemma make me wanna shake my head. I cannot understand how you can be torn by a compact car, a mid sized car and a large full sized car. *Beggars belief*

Well it's no surprise you came out here revealing thy crass self.
Fortunately, there are people who are blessed enough to afford whatsoever they want by God's grace, the only glitch is picking outta options

Have a good one
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GAZZUZZ(m): 8:57am On Mar 11, 2017
what roads will you be plying? Sweet northern roads? Ugly south south roads?
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by layifioren(m): 10:54am On Mar 11, 2017
derbylicious:


The camry and corrolla are both 4 cylinders, the avalon is 6.
The avalon is a 2000 model, the camry's 2005 and corrolla's 2003(CE)

One thing I usually consider is if the vehicle has timing belt or timing chain and how long I plan on keeping it. 4 cylinder 2005 Camry and 2003 Corolla both has timing chain so you shouldn't have to worry about changing them except in very unusual cases. In my experience, parts wise, both are really the same when it comes to availability and cost. The drive train of the Camry is slightly more rugged than that of the Corolla. The Corolla gets a slightly better gas mileage than the Camry.

The Avalon is a little more on the luxury side but a lot of it's parts are interchangeable with the Camry. The downside is the gas mileage is not as good but the drive train is certainly good overall. Also, it will have a timing belt and not a chain so you have to make sure it has been changed when it was supposed to otherwise you might risk have a broken timing belt. I have done over 10 timing belts and they are not a big deal if you have the right tools and time.

In summary, availability and cost of parts for all three are pretty much on par. Gas mileage is better in Corolla and worse in Avalon. Avalon and Camry probably will handle better and withstand the beatings from the terrible roads better than the Corolla.

na my 2 kobo be that smiley
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by bravolad(m): 11:32am On Mar 11, 2017
derbylicious:
Hi everyone

I am torn between a corrolla, camry and an avalon.

Honestly, the avalon has all the features I desire but I am being a bit sceptical about its maintenance as I understand it is on the high side.

Now, opinions based on actual experiences are needed...which of the trio would be most suitable for driving on our "unique" kind of roads as this would be used to commute daily(45mins drive~one way, i.e 90mins to&fro)

Also base thy opinions on fuel economy and ease of maintenance...i'd be reading comments(the purchase is going to be ASAP so SOS please!!!)

There will also be varied opinions when seeking public knowledge on a subject matter.

Among the lots, the Corolla has the least fuel consumption ratio because of the engine setup of 1.6l to 2.0l. The parts are also cheaper but with the recent fx scarcity has caused a geometric increase in parts generally albeit increase in demand for the Corolla locally, which ultimately pushes the price of spare parts & purchase to almost at par with the Camry. But in terms of fuel consumption, the Corolla achieves a better mpg but heavily dependent on your driving pattern, maintenance culture and keeping the car as close to the factory settings as possible. In addition, if you are single and don't move much luggage, the Corolla may be your choice.


The Camry is a much bigger car to the Corolla. So also is the maintenance. With a 2.4l engine, you spend a bit more on fueling but when traveling, you get compensated for space. There's also the 6cyl version of the Camry & I can safely assume you are not referring to that.

On the other hand, the Avalon comes only in 6cyl 3.0l engine. Better performance, drive experience and handling but you pay for it. Costlier to run among the others.

One interesting fact about them is they are all durable and reliable with the right maintenance and adherence to genuine spare parts or OEM. I personally believe that all cars will attract thieves if you are careless with them. Granted some are more attractive than others but hey! The nature of our society requires you stay within a comfort zone of spare parts availability, mechanic and some DIYs options when the need arises.

Finally, we can only make suggestions based on personal experiences but the onus of choice is strictly upon you. Whatever you want to buy, a vin report is absolutely essential to a happy motoring.

Good luck with your choice and remember to update us.

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 11:56am On Mar 11, 2017
bravolad:


There will also be varied opinions when seeking public knowledge on a subject matter.

Among the lots, the Corolla has the least fuel consumption ratio because of the engine setup of 1.6l to 2.0l. The parts are also cheaper but with the recent fx scarcity has caused a geometric increase in parts generally albeit increase in demand for the Corolla locally, which ultimately pushes the price of spare parts & purchase to almost at par with the Camry. But in terms of fuel consumption, the Corolla achieves a better mpg but heavily dependent on your driving pattern, maintenance culture and keeping the car as close to the factory settings as possible. In addition, if you are single and don't move much luggage, the Corolla may be your choice.


The Camry is a much bigger car to the Corolla. So also is the maintenance. With a 2.4l engine, you spend a bit more on fueling but when traveling, you get compensated for space. There's also the 6cyl version of the Camry & I can safely assume you are not referring to that.

On the other hand, the Avalon comes only in 6cyl 3.0l engine. Better performance, drive experience and handling but you pay for it. Costlier to run among the others.

One interesting fact about them is they are all durable and reliable with the right maintenance and adherence to genuine spare parts or OEM. I personally believe that all cars will attract thieves if you are careless with them. Granted some are more attractive than others but hey! The nature of our society requires you stay within a comfort zone of spare parts availability, mechanic and some DIYs options when the need arises.

Finally, we can only make suggestions based on personal experiences but the onus of choice is strictly upon you. Whatever you want to buy, a vin report is absolutely essential to a happy motoring.

Good luck with your choice and remember to update us.

Thank you very much. This is very reasonable . I will surely update. God bless you!
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 11:57am On Mar 11, 2017
GAZZUZZ:
what roads will you be plying? Sweet northern roads? Ugly south south roads?

The latter I'm afraid
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GAZZUZZ(m): 12:45pm On Mar 11, 2017
derbylicious:


The latter I'm afraid

corrola handle bad roads better, they are lighter and suspension takes less of a beating with a lighter car.

Better gas mileage

Cheaper to maintain. (have over 30 clients with this vehicle, oil change and brake pad change that's the norm

Availability of parts.

2nd hand value wonderful 2nd hand value as long as you can keep it in great shape

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by layifioren(m): 1:09pm On Mar 11, 2017
GAZZUZZ:


corrola handle bad roads better, they are lighter and suspension takes less of a beating with a lighter car.

Better gas mileage

Cheaper to maintain. (have over 30 clients with this vehicle, oil change and brake pad change that's the norm

Availability of parts.

2nd hand value wonderful 2nd hand value as long as you can keep it in great shape

I beg to differ on the handling. Though they are lighter, they certainly do not handle better on those roads. You will definitely have a better handling and driving experience on those roads with either the V6 Camry or Avalon. It won't matter for too long though because they will all get battered with time. Those roads are unforgiving. Except you have funds to constantly replace suspension parts with OEM or OEM level quality and keep up with the maintenance religiously

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GAZZUZZ(m): 2:26pm On Mar 11, 2017
layifioren:


I beg to differ on the handling. Though they are lighter, they certainly do not handle better on those roads. You will definitely have a better handling and driving experience on those roads with either the V6 Camry or Avalon. It won't matter for too long though because they will all get battered with time. Those roads are unforgiving. Except you have funds to constantly replace suspension parts with OEM or OEM level quality and keep up with the maintenance religiously

I agree with handling as regards stability at high speeds over bad roads.


Suspension parts last longer on very light cars in nigeria.

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by layifioren(m): 3:06pm On Mar 11, 2017
GAZZUZZ:


I agree with handling as regards stability at high speeds over bad roads.


Suspension parts last longer on very light cars in nigeria.

I suppose I understand your thought process
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by searchng4love: 3:25pm On Mar 11, 2017
GAZZUZZ:


corrola handle bad roads better, they are lighter and suspension takes less of a beating with a lighter car.

Better gas mileage

Cheaper to maintain. (have over 30 clients with this vehicle, oil change and brake pad change that's the norm

Availability of parts.

2nd hand value wonderful 2nd hand value as long as you can keep it in great shape
You forgot to mention that whenever you buy a Corolla thieves in the neighbourhood also rejoice with you..

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GAZZUZZ(m): 4:02pm On Mar 11, 2017
searchng4love:

You forgot to mention that whenever you buy a Corolla thieves in the neighbourhood also rejoice with you..

Thank God for comprehensive insurance
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 7:19pm On Mar 11, 2017
searchng4love:

You forgot to mention that whenever you buy a Corolla thieves in the neighbourhood also rejoice with you..

This is not funny but it cracked me up...the audacity, omg!
You're crazy, not going to happen ok
Lol
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by searchng4love: 7:42pm On Mar 11, 2017
derbylicious:


This is not funny but it cracked me up...the audacity, omg!
You're crazy, not going to happen ok
Lol
Comprehensive insurance ok? Don't joke about it.

1 Like

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by adanny01(m): 8:46pm On Mar 11, 2017
layifioren:


I beg to differ on the handling. Though they are lighter, they certainly do not handle better on those roads. You will definitely have a better handling and driving experience on those roads with either the V6 Camry or Avalon. It won't matter for too long though because they will all get battered with time. Those roads are unforgiving. Except you have funds to constantly replace suspension parts with OEM or OEM level quality and keep up with the maintenance religiously

GAZZUZZ didnt say the handling is better. He meant to say Corolla being lighter will not go bad easily with suspension problems unlike the heavier camry or avalon.

Handling is usually better with heavier cars but the suspension gets more beating.

1 Like

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by adanny01(m): 8:54pm On Mar 11, 2017
derbylicious:


The camry and corrolla are both 4 cylinders, the avalon is 6.
The avalon is a 2000 model, the camry's 2005 and corrolla's 2003(CE)

I think 2000 Avalon would not be suitable compared to 05 camry and 03 Corolla.

Your choice should be Camry or Corolla. The corolla willgive you best fuel economy.

Personally, i would prefer the 05 Camry in particular.

Shock absorber is the major problem of toyota Whether camry or corolla, so the better your roads the better for you.

1 Like

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by oluwanoni: 6:02pm On Mar 12, 2017
The Toyota corolla is great, fuel economy, maintenance affordable, Good for bad roads, but note that it's an easy target for theives, handling on speed is not great, if you like engine power, then look at the avalon or the camry.
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GetUmad: 10:13am On Mar 13, 2017
oluwanoni:
The Toyota corolla is great, fuel economy, maintenance affordable, Good for bad roads, but note that it's an easy target for theives, handling on speed is not great , if you like engine power, then look at the avalon or the camry.

You're very right. I use both corolla and Avensis 2.0. I notice on 80km/hr and above corolla gives a very light handling,with the feeling like those terrible roads are controlling the steering unlike the Avensis which stands firm on the road with you being entirely in charge (similar experience I had with the camry 2005 I once drove over a 300 km). However, still prefer the corolla for fuel efficiency.
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by tolulinks(m): 12:01am On Mar 14, 2017
derbylicious:


Well it's no surprise you came out here revealing thy crass self.
Fortunately, there are people who are blessed enough to afford whatsoever they want by God's grace, the only glitch is picking outta options

Have a good one

You can have a dilemma if things you are "dilemmaed" about are at least of similar looks and definition. You have chosen three cars that are as dissimilar as orange and apples. Makes me wonder what goes on up there.
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by sultaan(m): 2:29am On Mar 14, 2017
derbylicious:
Hi everyone

I am torn between a corrolla, camry and an avalon.

Honestly, the avalon has all the features I desire but I am being a bit sceptical about its maintenance as I understand it is on the high side.

Now, opinions based on actual experiences are needed...which of the trio would be most suitable for driving on our "unique" kind of roads as this would be used to commute daily(45mins drive~one way, i.e 90mins to&fro)

Also base thy opinions on fuel economy and ease of maintenance...i'd be reading comments(the purchase is going to be ASAP so SOS please!!!)


Pick one; a donkey, a mule, and a race horse

2 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by ogeodi(f): 9:32am On Mar 16, 2017
GAZZUZZ:


corrola handle bad roads better, they are lighter and suspension takes less of a beating with a lighter car.

Better gas mileage

Cheaper to maintain. (have over 30 clients with this vehicle, oil change and brake pad change that's the norm

Availability of parts.

2nd hand value wonderful 2nd hand value as long as you can keep it in great shape
please, which model or year of Toyota corrolla is the best and most durable?
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by GAZZUZZ(m): 10:22am On Mar 16, 2017
ogeodi:

please, which model or year of Toyota corrolla is the best and most durable?

2003-2006

3 Likes

Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by ogeodi(f): 9:24pm On Mar 16, 2017
GAZZUZZ:


2003-2006
Thanks for your quick response. pls wat do you think about highlander and what model and year is the best.
Re: First Car Dilemma!!!! by derbylicious: 11:19am On May 16, 2017
bravolad:


There will also be varied opinions when seeking public knowledge on a subject matter.

Among the lots, the Corolla has the least fuel consumption ratio because of the engine setup of 1.6l to 2.0l. The parts are also cheaper but with the recent fx scarcity has caused a geometric increase in parts generally albeit increase in demand for the Corolla locally, which ultimately pushes the price of spare parts & purchase to almost at par with the Camry. But in terms of fuel consumption, the Corolla achieves a better mpg but heavily dependent on your driving pattern, maintenance culture and keeping the car as close to the factory settings as possible. In addition, if you are single and don't move much luggage, the Corolla may be your choice.


The Camry is a much bigger car to the Corolla. So also is the maintenance. With a 2.4l engine, you spend a bit more on fueling but when traveling, you get compensated for space. There's also the 6cyl version of the Camry & I can safely assume you are not referring to that.

On the other hand, the Avalon comes only in 6cyl 3.0l engine. Better performance, drive experience and handling but you pay for it. Costlier to run among the others.

One interesting fact about them is they are all durable and reliable with the right maintenance and adherence to genuine spare parts or OEM. I personally believe that all cars will attract thieves if you are careless with them. Granted some are more attractive than others but hey! The nature of our society requires you stay within a comfort zone of spare parts availability, mechanic and some DIYs options when the need arises.

Finally, we can only make suggestions based on personal experiences but the onus of choice is strictly upon you. Whatever you want to buy, a vin report is absolutely essential to a happy motoring.

Good luck with your choice and remember to update us.


After test driving the 3 cars, I chose the Avalon without a doubt and it has been good.
Thank you so much for your detailed input and its gas economy is not as bad as assumed

God bless!

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