Brian Jeffrey
The Toyota Crown is a long-standing five-seater model that Toyota has been manufacturing since 1955, with a total of 16 generations of Crowns introduced to the market over the years.
In Vietnam, the Toyota Crown holds a special significance due to its history and usage. Back in the early 1990s, these cars were specifically selected by the government and state management agencies for official use and were imported to serve diplomatic purposes.
During that period, the Toyota Crown represented the epitome of luxury in state agencies, surpassing car models from the former Soviet Union. It became synonymous with high-ranking officials such as ministers, Party Committee secretaries, and deputy ministers, whereas lower-ranking officials used other car models.
Commonly referred to as ‘the car for ministers’, the Toyota Crown stood out with its iconic glossy black exterior, adorned with a yellow crown logo on the bonnet, exuding a grand and dignified aura on the roads.
Most of the Toyota Crowns in Vietnam belonged to the 9th and 10th generations. The 9th generation (1991-1994) offered various modern features such as digital gauges, GPS, and enhanced safety measures, featuring rounded front and rear lines for a contemporary look.
The succeeding 10th generation saw a return to the square design, featuring a Majesta 140-series monocoque chassis. The Royal Saloon version was particularly powerful, boasting a 3.0 petrol engine generating up to 225 horsepower, alongside other advanced amenities.
Although Toyota initiated investments in Vietnam in 1995, Toyota Crowns were not made available for commercial sale, making them highly sought after by collectors. Despite prolonged use by state agencies over 20-30 years, these vehicles retained their value.
One notable 10th generation Toyota Crown imported in 1998, bearing the number plate 80B-2089, served the late Party Committee Secretary General Nguyen Phu Trong, designated as a Super Saloon version.
Over time, Toyota introduced 16 generations of Toyota Crowns to the market, including the 2022 version characterized by a luxurious and modern style, incorporating advanced safety features. In addition, hybrid Crown cars have been introduced, priced generally between VND 2-2.5 billion.
Even though new Toyota Crowns are not officially sold in Vietnam, the used car market offers a range of Toyota Crowns at varying prices, ranging from hundreds of millions to billions of dong.
In Hanoi, a renowned vintage car enthusiast, Trinh Ngoc Duc from Hoan Kiem district, once owned a 1998 Toyota Crown valued at over VND 1 billion.
According to Duc, the value of Toyota Crowns is not fixed and varies based on factors like quality. The most exquisite and well-maintained vehicles are usually held by experienced and discerning collectors.
Another enthusiast, Do Van Chinh from Ha Dong district, is recognized for owning seven Toyota Crowns manufactured between 1993-1999, acquiring his first Toyota Crown from 1999 for VND 430 million.
Toyota Crowns continue to hold their appeal among collectors, who actively participate in state agency auctions to acquire these vehicles. Notably, in April 1993, there was a frenzy when three Toyota Crown 3.0 1999 series vehicles were auctioned by the Government Office and fetched unexpectedly high prices.
These vehicles were well-maintained as they were primarily used by government officials, reflecting the meticulous care provided by experienced drivers. Therefore, the Toyota Crowns sold by state agencies are valued for their exceptional quality.
