1997 Toyota Camry vs. 2003 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2003 Toyota Prius is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,163 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Camry (134 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Camry should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Camry weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Toyota Prius. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Toyota Camry (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Camry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius. 2003 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota Camry has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota Camry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Camry | 2003 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Camry | Prius |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2163 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
