1997 Car Models: The Complete List

Across showrooms, suburban driveways and enthusiast forums, 1997 felt like a turning point for automotive choices — models blended comfort, sportiness and emerging tech in ways that still show up in used-car searches today.

There are 95 1997 Car Models, ranging from Acura CL to Volvo S90. The list is organized for quick comparison using Body type,Market,Engine (L) / Power (kW), so you can scan body styles, regional availability and engine outputs easily; you’ll find below.

How is the list organized and what do the columns mean?

Each entry shows the vehicle name followed by Body type (sedan, coupe, etc.), Market (where it was sold or targeted) and Engine (L) / Power (kW), which helps you compare displacement and output at a glance without hunting through long specs.

Can I filter the list to find cars by market or engine size?

Yes — the columns let you sort or filter by Market or Engine (L) / Power (kW) to find, for example, European-only models or cars with a 2.0L engine; note that power ratings may vary by trim and region.

1997 Car Models

Images and Descriptions

Toyota Camry

Completely redesigned for 1997, the XV20 generation Camry set a new standard for mid-size family sedans. It was renowned for its exceptional reliability, quiet ride, and comfortable interior, making it a best-seller in the US and other markets worldwide.

Ford F-150

Ford launched a radically redesigned, more aerodynamic F-150 for 1997, a major departure from its traditional boxy look. This tenth-generation truck offered improved ride comfort and new overhead-cam V8 engines, setting a new standard for modern pickups.

Chevrolet Corvette

The groundbreaking fifth-generation (C5) Corvette debuted in 1997 with the all-new LS1 V8 engine. Its hydroformed frame and rear-mounted transaxle provided superb balance and performance, representing a massive technological leap forward for the American sports car icon.

Honda Accord

A carryover model ahead of a 1998 redesign, the 1997 Accord remained a top seller due to its reputation for reliability and efficiency. It was a benchmark family sedan, known for its refined VTEC engines and high-quality build that appealed to practical buyers.

Ford Explorer

The dominant SUV of the era, the 1997 Explorer continued to be a family favorite. It blended rugged capability with everyday usability, making it the go-to choice for suburban families and adventurers alike, solidifying the popularity of the sport-utility vehicle.

Dodge Ram

Sporting its iconic “big rig” styling introduced a few years prior, the 1997 Dodge Ram continued to be a strong seller. It stood out with its muscular design and offered powerful Magnum V8 and Cummins diesel engine options, appealing to serious truck buyers.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

A leader in the premium SUV segment, the 1997 Grand Cherokee offered a blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort. Its available 5.2L V8 and Quadra-Trac four-wheel-drive system made it both a capable trail machine and a luxurious daily driver.

Honda Civic

The sixth-generation Civic was in full swing in 1997, celebrated for its fuel efficiency, fun-to-drive nature, and legendary reliability. Available in coupe, sedan, and hatchback forms, it was a favorite among commuters and the burgeoning import tuner scene.

Toyota RAV4

A pioneer of the compact crossover SUV segment, the 1997 RAV4 offered car-like handling with the utility and higher seating position of an SUV. Its fun, youthful styling and available full-time 4WD made it a popular alternative to traditional cars.

BMW 5 Series

The E39 generation of the 5 Series, still fresh in 1997, was widely praised as the best sports sedan in the world. It combined luxury, sophisticated styling, and near-perfect handling dynamics, setting the benchmark for the executive sedan class.

Ford Mustang

The 1997 Mustang carried on the popular fourth-generation “SN95” design. It offered classic American muscle car appeal with its V6 and V8 engine choices. The GT model’s 4.6L V8 provided the iconic sound and performance enthusiasts craved.

Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu nameplate was reintroduced for 1997 as an all-new front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan. Designed to compete with the Camry and Accord, it offered a comfortable ride and practical features, aiming to win back buyers in a competitive segment.

Dodge Caravan

A dominant force in the minivan market, the 1997 Dodge Caravan was praised for its innovative features like the available driver-side sliding door. It offered immense practicality and family-friendly versatility, making it the quintessential people-mover of the 90s.

Acura Integra

The 1997 Integra was a favorite in the sport compact scene, especially the GS-R model with its high-revving VTEC engine. It offered a thrilling driving experience, sharp handling, and a sleek design, making it a popular choice for young enthusiasts.

Porsche 911

In 1997, the 993-generation Porsche 911 represented the end of an era as the last of the air-cooled models. It is revered by enthusiasts for its pure driving feel and classic design, blending modern performance with Porsche’s traditional engineering.

Honda CR-V

Honda’s first-ever SUV, the CR-V, debuted in North America for 1997 and helped launch the crossover craze. It combined a car-based platform with SUV utility, featuring a unique stowable picnic table in the cargo area, making it an instant family hit.

Toyota 4Runner

Redesigned a year earlier, the 1997 4Runner was more refined and comfortable than its predecessor but retained its legendary off-road capability. Based on the Tacoma platform, it was a rugged, reliable SUV for those who needed to venture off the beaten path.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The W210 E-Class, with its distinctive quad-oval headlights, was a symbol of luxury and German engineering in 1997. It offered a supremely comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and a range of smooth inline-six and V8 engines.

Nissan Pathfinder

The 1997 Pathfinder featured a more modern unibody construction, which improved its on-road manners and refinement over traditional SUVs. It offered a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior, positioning it as a sophisticated, car-like sport-utility vehicle.

Subaru Legacy

The 1997 Legacy, particularly in its Outback wagon form, was a massive success. With its standard all-wheel drive and raised suspension, the Outback pioneered the rugged wagon crossover concept, appealing to buyers who wanted SUV capability with car-like efficiency.

Ford Escort

Ford introduced a redesigned Escort for 1997, featuring more rounded, contemporary styling and a new, more powerful 2.0-liter engine. It aimed to be a more competitive and refined entry in the crowded compact car market.

Chevrolet Lumina

The 1997 Lumina served as Chevrolet’s reliable, no-frills mid-size sedan. Popular with families and fleet buyers, it offered a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, representing a practical and affordable choice in the Chevrolet lineup.

Plymouth Prowler

One of the most radical production cars of the decade, the Plymouth Prowler was launched in 1997. This factory-built hot rod featured an aluminum-intensive construction and open-wheel front-end styling, turning heads everywhere it went despite its V6 powertrain.

Audi A4

The Audi A4 was a strong contender in the compact executive sedan market in 1997. It impressed with its high-quality interior, sophisticated design, and the available Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which provided excellent all-weather traction and handling.

Volkswagen Golf

The Mk3 Golf was a European staple in 1997, known for its solid build quality and practical hatchback design. The high-performance GTI model continued to be a favorite among enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of everyday usability and driving fun.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 1997 Miata was the final year of the original “NA” generation with its iconic pop-up headlights. It remained the definitive small, affordable sports car, celebrated for its pure, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive handling that delivered immense driving joy.

Toyota Supra

The fourth-generation (A80) Supra was a high-tech performance icon in 1997. Its legendary 2JZ engine, especially in twin-turbo form, offered massive power and tuning potential. Its sleek, dramatic styling still looks modern and is beloved by enthusiasts.

Mitsubishi Eclipse

The second-generation Eclipse was a star of the sport compact scene in 1997. Its aggressive styling and available turbocharged engine with all-wheel drive (GSX model) made it a highly desirable and capable performance coupe with a massive aftermarket following.

Jeep Wrangler

The all-new “TJ” generation Wrangler arrived just before 1997, replacing leaf springs with a more modern coil spring suspension. This dramatically improved its on-road ride comfort while enhancing its already legendary off-road capability, making it more versatile than ever.

Ford Expedition

Introduced as an all-new model for 1997, the Ford Expedition replaced the Bronco. Based on the F-150 platform, this full-size SUV offered three rows of seating and massive cargo capacity, directly targeting the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

Nissan Maxima

Marketed as the “Four-Door Sports Car,” the 1997 Maxima was praised for its smooth and powerful VQ30DE V6 engine. It offered a more engaging driving experience than its mainstream rivals, appealing to buyers who wanted a practical sedan with a sporty soul.

Lexus LS 400

The 1997 LS 400 continued to be the benchmark for luxury, serenity, and build quality. Its V8 engine was famously smooth and the cabin was whisper-quiet, offering an incredibly refined and isolated driving experience that challenged the German luxury titans.

Saturn SL

Saturn’s S-Series sedan was known for its dent-resistant polymer body panels and a friendly, no-haggle sales experience. The 1997 model was a practical and affordable compact car that had built a loyal following for its unique approach to the auto industry.

Porsche Boxster

The all-new Porsche Boxster was launched in 1997, marking a huge success for the brand. Its mid-engine layout provided brilliant handling balance, and its flat-six engine delivered a signature Porsche soundtrack, all at a more accessible price point than the 911.

Acura NSX

For 1997, the iconic Acura NSX received its first major performance upgrade, with a larger 3.2L V6 engine and a new 6-speed manual transmission. This exotic, mid-engined sports car continued to offer supercar performance with Honda’s renowned reliability.

BMW 3 Series

The E36 generation of the 3 Series was in its prime in 1997, defining the sport-compact luxury segment. It was celebrated for its fantastic rear-wheel-drive handling, smooth inline-six engines, and a perfect balance of comfort and driver engagement.

Chevrolet Tahoe

The 1997 Tahoe was a hugely popular full-size SUV, offering immense space, towing capacity, and a powerful Vortec V8 engine. Available in 2-door and 4-door versions, it was the go-to vehicle for large families needing maximum utility and capability.

Honda Odyssey

The first-generation Honda Odyssey was unique in 1997 for having four conventional, car-like hinged doors instead of sliding ones. While smaller than its American rivals, it was praised for its car-like handling, efficiency, and clever, flexible interior.

Nissan 240SX

The 1997 model year marked a refresh for the “S14” 240SX, featuring more aggressive styling. As one of the last affordable, rear-wheel-drive sport coupes, it was already becoming a legend in the burgeoning sport of drifting, prized for its balance and handling.

Volvo 850

The 1997 Volvo 850, especially in its high-performance T-5 and R trims, shattered the brand’s staid image. This front-wheel-drive model offered turbocharged power and boxy, practical styling, creating the ultimate “sleeper” performance wagon.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger was America’s best-selling compact pickup in 1997. It was a durable, practical, and versatile truck that was just the right size for work or recreation, offering a variety of cab styles and engine choices to suit different needs.

Mazda RX-7

The third-generation (FD) RX-7 was a pure, lightweight sports car icon in 1997, though sales were ending in some markets. Its sequential twin-turbo rotary engine was unique and powerful, while its beautifully sculpted body and sublime handling made it a legend.

Toyota Tacoma

The 1997 Tacoma was known for its outstanding durability and off-road prowess, especially in 4×4 form. It had a reputation for being nearly indestructible, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts who valued reliability above all else.

Chrysler Town & Country

As the luxury version of the Dodge and Plymouth minivans, the 1997 Town & Country offered upscale features like leather seats and woodgrain trim. It combined maximum family utility with a premium feel, making it a top choice for well-heeled families.

Ferrari F355

The 1997 Ferrari F355 is often regarded as one of the best of the modern V8 Ferraris. Its high-revving 5-valve-per-cylinder engine produced a glorious sound, and its stunning Pininfarina design made it an instant and timeless classic.

Lamborghini Diablo

The 1997 Diablo VT (Viscous Traction) variant added all-wheel drive to the notoriously wild supercar, making its immense V12 power more manageable. It remained the quintessential poster car, with scissor doors and extreme styling that screamed pure exotic performance.

Oldsmobile Silhouette

As part of GM’s redesigned minivan trio, the 1997 Silhouette was marketed as the most luxurious and stylish version. It featured a more futuristic design and offered a host of comfort and convenience features aimed at upscale families.

Pontiac Grand Prix

The Pontiac Grand Prix was completely redesigned for 1997 with dramatic “wide track” styling. The GTP model, with its supercharged 3.8L V6, offered surprising performance that challenged more expensive sedans, making it a popular and sporty family car.

Buick Park Avenue

The Buick Park Avenue was all-new for 1997, featuring more streamlined styling and a stiffer body structure for an improved ride. The top-line Ultra model came with a supercharged V6, offering a blend of traditional American luxury and effortless power.

Saab 900

The 1997 Saab 900 continued the brand’s tradition of quirky, aircraft-inspired design, including a center-console-mounted ignition. Available with a punchy turbocharged engine, it offered a unique and safe alternative to mainstream sedans and hatchbacks.

Volkswagen Jetta

The third-generation Jetta was a popular choice for those wanting a more upscale and solid-feeling compact sedan in 1997. It offered German engineering and a fun-to-drive character, with the GLX model providing smooth VR6 engine power.

Mitsubishi 3000GT

The 1997 3000GT received a minor facelift, featuring a more aggressive front bumper and new rear wing. The top-tier VR-4 model remained a technological marvel with its twin-turbo V6, all-wheel drive, and active aerodynamics.

Cadillac DeVille

The 1997 Cadillac DeVille was a large, comfortable American luxury sedan. It was one of the last of its kind, offering a plush ride and a spacious interior. The powerful Northstar V8 engine provided smooth, confident acceleration for this land-yacht.

Lincoln Town Car

The Lincoln Town Car was the definitive American luxury sedan in 1997, prized for its immense interior space and pillow-soft ride. It was a favorite for limousine services and buyers who valued ultimate comfort over sporty handling.

Dodge Viper

The big news for 1997 was the introduction of the Viper GTS coupe. With its iconic double-bubble roof and a massive 8.0L V10 engine, it was a brutal, uncompromising American supercar that offered raw, unfiltered performance.

Nissan Skyline GT-R

The R33 generation Skyline GT-R was a technological titan in 1997. Its twin-turbo RB26DETT engine and advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system provided incredible grip and performance, solidifying its legendary status in the JDM world.

Isuzu Trooper

The 1997 Isuzu Trooper was a rugged and highly capable SUV known for its excellent visibility and spacious, utilitarian interior. It was a more traditional, truck-based SUV that offered serious off-road credibility compared to newer crossovers.

Hyundai Tiburon

The Hyundai Tiburon (“Shark”) was an all-new sport coupe for 1997. It offered dramatic, fluid styling at an affordable price point, signaling Hyundai’s move towards more stylish and desirable vehicles beyond basic economy cars.

Kia Sportage

The 1997 Kia Sportage was one of the first compact SUVs on the market, offering a rugged body-on-frame construction in a small package. It was an affordable entry into the SUV world, available in both four-door and a unique two-door convertible model.

Land Rover Discovery

The 1997 Discovery offered unparalleled off-road capability combined with a distinct British luxury charm. Its iconic stepped roofline provided excellent headroom for rear passengers, and it was a genuinely capable vehicle for overland adventures.

GMC Jimmy

A sibling to the Chevrolet Blazer, the 1997 GMC Jimmy offered a slightly more upscale take on the popular mid-size SUV formula. It was a versatile vehicle, comfortable enough for daily driving but tough enough for weekend adventures.

Infiniti Q45

Redesigned for 1997, the second-generation Infiniti Q45 shifted its focus from a high-performance sport sedan to a more traditional luxury cruiser. It featured a smaller V8 engine and softer suspension, aiming for the core of the Lexus LS market.

Lexus ES 300

The Lexus ES 300 was all-new for 1997, based on the new Toyota Camry platform but with a much higher level of luxury and refinement. It offered a whisper-quiet ride and a beautifully crafted interior, making it a top seller in the near-luxury class.

Mercury Grand Marquis

A twin to the Ford Crown Victoria, the 1997 Grand Marquis was a classic, full-size, rear-wheel-drive American sedan. It was known for its durability, comfortable ride, and spacious six-passenger interior, popular with an older demographic.

Pontiac Firebird

A sibling to the Chevrolet Camaro, the 1997 Firebird offered more aggressive, aerodynamic styling. The Trans Am model, with its powerful LT1 V8 engine and Ram Air intake, was a potent muscle car that delivered thrilling straight-line performance.

Chevrolet Cavalier

The 1997 Cavalier was a mainstay in the compact car segment, offering affordable and reliable transportation. Available as a sedan, coupe, or convertible, it was a popular choice for first-time buyers and rental car fleets across America.

Toyota Celica

The sixth-generation Celica in 1997 was known for its distinctive quad-headlight styling and nimble handling. While the high-performance GT-Four model was a rally legend elsewhere, the standard Celica was a stylish and reliable sport coupe for the masses.

Chrysler Sebring

The 1997 Chrysler Sebring coupe offered sleek, cab-forward styling and a comfortable, well-equipped interior. Based on a Mitsubishi platform, it was a stylish and affordable mid-size coupe, with a convertible version also available for open-air cruising.

Geo Prizm

A joint venture between GM and Toyota, the 1997 Geo Prizm was essentially a rebadged Toyota Corolla. It offered buyers the best of both worlds: the stellar reliability and quality of a Toyota, sold and serviced at a domestic Chevrolet-Geo dealership.

Subaru Impreza

The 1997 Impreza was known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a unique feature in the compact class. The sporty 2.5 RS model hinted at the future WRX, offering enhanced performance and rally-inspired styling for enthusiasts.

Volvo S90

The 1997 Volvo S90 was the new name for the former 960 model. It was the brand’s flagship rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan, known for its outstanding safety features, durable inline-six engine, and traditional, upright styling.

Eagle Talon

A sibling to the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the 1997 Eagle Talon shared its sporty platform and powertrain options. The TSi AWD model was a highlight, with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive grip providing impressive all-weather performance.

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

The R129 generation SL was an icon of 1990s luxury and engineering. The 1997 SL500, with its powerful V8 and fully automatic soft top, was a sophisticated and substantial grand touring convertible that exuded class and status.

Audi A8

The Audi A8 was groundbreaking in 1997 for its aluminum “Audi Space Frame” construction, which made it lighter than its steel competitors. Combined with Quattro all-wheel drive, it was a technologically advanced and secure-handling flagship luxury sedan.

Jaguar XK8

The Jaguar XK8 was all-new for 1997, replacing the long-running XJS. It featured a curvaceous design reminiscent of the classic E-Type and was powered by Jaguar’s first-ever V8 engine, heralding a new, more modern era for the brand.

Acura CL

Introduced as a new model, the 1997 Acura CL was the first Acura designed and built in the United States. Based on the Honda Accord platform, it was a stylish and comfortable personal luxury coupe aimed at the American market.

Ford Crown Victoria

The 1997 Crown Victoria was the definitive body-on-frame, rear-wheel-drive American sedan. Renowned for its durability, it was the overwhelming favorite for police and taxi fleets, while also serving as a spacious and comfortable family car.

Nissan Sentra

The 1997 Nissan Sentra was a solid, reliable, and fuel-efficient compact sedan. While not the most exciting car in its class, it was a practical and economical choice that appealed to budget-conscious buyers looking for no-fuss transportation.

Hyundai Elantra

The 1997 Elantra showcased Hyundai’s rapid improvement in quality and design. Available as a sedan or a practical wagon, it offered a generous list of standard features and a long warranty, making it a strong value proposition in the compact segment.

Oldsmobile Aurora

The 1997 Aurora was Oldsmobile’s flagship sedan, featuring a futuristic, aerodynamic design and a powerful V8 engine derived from Cadillac’s Northstar. It was an ambitious attempt to compete with European and Japanese luxury sport sedans.

Aston Martin DB7

The 1997 Aston Martin DB7 was a stunningly beautiful grand tourer that helped revitalize the brand. Its supercharged inline-six engine provided smooth, ample power, and its elegant styling made it one of the most desirable British cars of the era.

Chevrolet Camaro

The 1997 Camaro celebrated the model’s 30th anniversary with a special edition package. It continued to offer classic American muscle with its V6 and V8 engine options, with the Z28 model’s LT1 V8 providing impressive and affordable performance.

Dodge Neon

Marketed with a friendly “Hi” campaign, the 1997 Dodge Neon was a fun-to-drive and spacious compact car. The ACR (American Club Racer) package made it a formidable competitor in amateur racing, highlighting its excellent handling and peppy engine.

Buick LeSabre

The 1997 Buick LeSabre was a quintessential large American sedan, known for its smooth, comfortable ride and reliable 3800 V6 engine. It offered seating for up to six passengers and was a popular choice for families seeking traditional comfort and value.

Mitsubishi Galant

The eighth-generation Mitsubishi Galant arrived in some markets in 1997 with a sharp, aggressive new look. It was a stylish and competent mid-size sedan that aimed to be a sportier alternative to the mainstream choices from Toyota and Honda.

Suzuki Sidekick

The 1997 Suzuki Sidekick Sport variant offered a slightly wider body and a more powerful 1.8L engine. It was a small, nimble, and affordable SUV that provided genuine off-road capability in a compact and fuel-efficient package.

Toyota Corolla

The 1997 Corolla was in its final year of the seventh generation, a model that had cemented its reputation for being one of the most reliable and sensible cars money could buy. It was the go-to choice for dependable, economical transportation.

Volkswagen Passat

An all-new, more upscale Passat (B5) debuted in Europe in 1997, sharing its platform with the Audi A4. This new model featured a high-quality interior and sophisticated multi-link suspension, moving the Passat into a more premium market segment.

BMW Z3

Fresh off its appearance in the James Bond film GoldenEye, the 1997 BMW Z3 was a highly desirable roadster. It combined classic long-hood, short-deck styling with BMW’s signature driving dynamics, making it a stylish and fun open-top sports car.

Chevrolet S-10

The 1997 Chevy S-10 was a popular compact pickup truck, valued for its manageable size and versatility. The available “Vortec” 4.3L V6 was a powerful option in its class, and the sporty SS model offered a dose of muscle truck attitude.

Ford Contour

The 1997 Ford Contour was a “world car” designed to appeal to both American and European tastes. It was praised by critics for its sharp handling and sophisticated chassis, with the SVT model being a true “sleeper” sport sedan.

Honda Prelude

The fifth-generation Prelude was all-new for 1997, featuring more traditional, squared-off styling. The high-tech Type SH model introduced Honda’s innovative Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), which improved handling by vectoring torque in corners.

Mercury Mountaineer

Introduced in 1997, the Mercury Mountaineer was a more luxurious version of the Ford Explorer. It featured a unique chrome grille and came standard with a V8 engine, offering a premium and powerful option in the booming mid-size SUV market.

Dodge Avenger

The 1997 Dodge Avenger was a mid-size sport coupe that shared its platform with the Chrysler Sebring. It offered sporty styling and a roomy interior for a coupe, providing a more practical but still stylish alternative to smaller sport compacts.

Cadillac Catera

Launched in 1997, the Catera was Cadillac’s attempt to attract younger buyers with a smaller, sportier, German-engineered sedan (a rebadged Opel Omega). Marketed as “The Caddy that Zigs,” it aimed to compete with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Car Models in Other Years