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

[drainoil]

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

[PaleMelanesian]

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.

[ecomodded]

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

[MetroMPG]

Originally Posted by PaleMelanesian

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.

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

[Smurf]

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.

[drainoil]

Originally Posted by PaleMelanesian

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.

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?