Hidden Treasure: 1996 Toyota RAV4 in the Junkyard

The Toyota RAV4 made its debut in Japan in 1994 and arrived in the United States in early 1996. Over its 28-year tenure, the RAV4 has become a top-selling vehicle in America, with over 7 million units sold. A notable find in the automotive wreckage world, the surviving RAV4 marks one of the earliest models to hit American shores.

During my car graveyard explorations, I’ve uncovered rare gems like one of the first Toyota Camrys sold in the U.S. and early Mitsubishi and Honda models. The emergence of popular SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer in the ’90s prompted Toyota to innovate with the RAV4, offering a unibody SUV with a mix of toughness and comfort for American drivers.

Developed on a chassis combining elements from the Corolla and Carina models, the original RAV4 was available with two or four doors and front-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive options. The “RAV4” acronym stood for “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel-drive,” emphasizing the vehicle’s outdoor capabilities.

Initially created as a “49-state” car, the 1996 RAV4 was not approved for sale in California. Powered by a 2.0-liter 120-horsepower DOHC 3S-FE engine, this early model sported a five-speed manual transmission. Subsequent generations transitioned to automatic transmissions, but manual options persist in other markets.

Weighing in at 2,778 pounds, the 1996 RAV4 was significantly lighter than its modern counterpart. While this specific vehicle had a modest 175,000-mile lifespan, other ’90s Toyota models, like the Avalon and Camry, have clocked impressive mileage figures reaching hundreds of thousands.

However, the RAV4 achieved recognition as one of the first production electric vehicles in the U.S. With an electric version sold from 1997 to 2003, the RAV4 EV has survived in California junkyards, unlike the fate of the GM EV1.

While the RAV4 may be a common sight on American roads today, its sturdy construction is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to quality engineering. So, if you’re looking to stand out from the crowd, consider exploring the diverse options available in the automotive market. Remember, Toyota vehicles may not always scream “fun,” but their reliability and durability are unmistakable.