Best ecomodding potential? ('99 Prism automatic vs. '96 Camry 2.2 automatic)
 

1999 Chev Prism (automatic) 126k currently or 1996 Camry (2.2 automatic) 152k. Looking at maybe buying whatever has the best potential.

If that Prism is the one with the 3-speed automatic and no torque converter lockup, RUN AWAY! The camry will walk all over it for mileage.

Keep looking when you come across a minty manual transmission VW TDI, buy it and enjoy 50 to 60+ mpg.

Good point! I didn't even know there was both a 3-speed auto and a 4-speed auto available on that car.

Far as I know, the Prizm (at least the 1999 models) all had the 1.8L four cylinder with either a 5 speed manual, 4 speed auto, or 3 speed auto. Quite a difference in EPA ratings between the 5spd and the 3spd, as well.

Is there a visual clue as to if it has the 3 speed/no lock-up converter vs 4 speed/with lock up converter, or do you have to drive it to actually find out?