Oct. 01, 1980

TOYOTA MARK II AND CHASER UNDERGO FULL MODEL CHANGES

New Mark II Mounted with Computer-Controlled 5M-EU Engine,
and "Avante" Model Added to Top of Chaser Series

 

TOKYO―Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. and Toyota Motor Sales Co., Ltd. jointly announced full model changes in the small-size luxury-class passenger car series Mark II and Chaser, to go on sale nationwide today.

With improved fuel economy, road performance, comfort and reduced noise, the new models are aimed at meeting the increasingly diversified demand in the luxury small-car market. Both model changes have been developed around the basic concept of "high-performance, high-quality, luxury-class passenger cars": the new Mark II emphasizes the theme of "poise and elegance" while the new Chaser stresses " individuality and youthful vigor."

The following are some notable features of the new Mark II and Chaser in terms of recently developed mechanisms and technology.
  1. A 5M-EU type engine controlled by the electronic Toyota Computer Controlled System (TCCS). The engine is regulated with high precision by a 12-bit microcomputer that also has a diagnosis function. These are firsts of their kind in Japan.
  2. A "Speak Monitor," the first automotive warning system in the world using a synthetic human voice. A female voice gives the driver six different kinds of warning.
  3. A 1G-EU type engine, already highly reputed for low fuel consumption, and a 21R-U-type engine that features a new lightweight, compact carburetor.
    TCCS (Toyota Computer Controlled System) is a high-precision electronic control system that uses a microcomputer to regulate the engine, the drive train, the brakes and other mechanisms.

Also, both series have been expanded with GT models powered by the DOHC 18R- GEU type engine, a new top grade version of the Chaser called the "Avante" (meaning "forward" in Spanish) and a diesel engine version of the Chaser.

The main features of the new Mark II and Chaser are as follows.
  1. A Sweeping Change in Styling
    1. With a low-hood, low-beltline profile setting the basic tone, the new styling represents further improvement in terms of aerodynamic characteristics, visibility and comfort.
    2. For the sedan body, a style featuring six side windows was adopted to accentuate brightness and openness. The hardtop body has four doors and is designed to combine stylish form with utility.
  2. Interior is Relaxed and Functional
    Seats, instrument panel and ceiling are color coordinated in light and dark shades to create a relaxed interior space. The instruments and gauges are laid out for optimal visibility and the switches and knobs are placed for easy reach and operation.
  3. Good Fuel Efficiency and Lighter Weight
    1. The new models are powered by a selection of fuel-efficient engines, including the microcomputer-controlled 5M-EU type (6 cylinder, 2759 cc, with EFI) for the Mark II and the newly developed IG-EU type (6-cylinder, 1988 cc, with EFI) and the 21R-U type (4-cylinder, 1972 cc) equipped with a new type carburetor for both the Mark II and the Chaser.
    2. The fuel economy of the new models has been improved through optimization of their gear ratios and improvement of aerodynamic characteristics by unifying of the body contour and in other ways.
    3. The weight of the new models has been reduced through a more extensive use of high- tensile sheet steel and plastics, and a more rational designing of various components.
  4. Safety Features
    The following are some of the features that enhance the safety of the vehicles.
    1. Six side windows and generally greater glazing area are used to give the driver a wider field of vision.
    2. Ventilated disc brakes have been adopted for the front wheels.
    3. All models have three-point emergency-locking retractor (ELR) seat belts for the front seats. In addition, the Mark II Grande and the Chaser Avante have three-point ELR seat belts in the back seats (for sedans) and horizontally adjustable headrests for the front seats.
  5. Improvement in Road Performance
    The following are some of the features that contribute to improved road performance.
    1. The 18R-GEU type (4-cylinder, DOHC, 1968 cc, with EFI) 5M-EU, IG-EU and 21 R-U type engines all excel in terms of dynamic performance.
    2. All car bodies are styled to optimize the aerodynamic characteristics.
    3. The suspensions in all models are set for optimal performance, and a harder suspension is provided in the GT and LG Touring versions of the Mark II, and the GT, SG Touring and Avante versions of the Chaser.
  6. More Room and Comfort
    1. Developed from the basic concept of "big inside, small outside," the new models combine a compact-looking exterior with an interior that provides more room and comfort.
    2. A series of noise reducing measures have been adopted that reduce wind noise, engine noise and drone in order to insure a much quieter ride.
    3. A bi-level heater enables occupants to keep their heads cool and feet warm at the same time, and exclusive side defrosters are standard equipment. Also standard in the Mark II Grande and the Chaser Avante is a large-capacity, fine control automatic air-conditioner.
  7. Improved Utility and Serviceability
    1. Greater ease of operation has been achieved by including in standard equipment translucent compass-needle type illumination and optimal positioning of control switches. Some versions also have tilt-steering, power steering that is responsive to engine rpm, a driver's seat with an up-down adjuster and a rear seat with a slide mechanism.
    2. The adoption of the TCCS diagnosis system (microcomputer-controlled 5M-EU type engine) and a hydraulic valve lash adjuster (1G-EU type engine) are two of the measures that contribute to improved serviceability.
  8. New Mechanisms and Equipment
    1. A "Speak Monitor," the world's first automotive warning system using a synthesized human voice, has been made standard equipment in the Mark II Grande 2800. A synthesized female voice gives the driver six kinds of warning: e.g., "fasten seat belt," "remove ignition key," "turn off headlights," "close door," "need gasoline" and "set parking brake."
    2. A stereo system fitted with a graphic equalizer, and an electrically operated sun-roof are optional in some versions.
    3. The seats of the Mark II Grande are a block-patterned loose-cushion type, combining luxury and comfort.
  9. Wider Selection of Versions
    1. To respond more fully to the demand for luxury-class small-size passenger cars, the hardtop versions of the Mark II and Chaser have been made four-door types.
    2. Completely new versions make their debut in GT versions of the Mark II and Chaser powered by the DOHC, 18R-GEU type engine, and the Avante - the top grade version of the Chaser, with Michelin tires and a harder suspension―and a diesel version of the Chaser, powered by the L-type engine (4-cylinder diesel, 2188 cc).
    3. In both the Mark II and Chaser lines, more versions are now equipped with a four- speed automatic transmission with overdrive, which improves fuel economy

There are now 43 different versions of the Mark II and 34 of the Chaser. Projected monthly domestic sales for the Mark II are 15,000 units and for the Chaser 5,000 units.

Complete lines of Mark II and Chaser models, including fuel economy data, are on accompanying sheets.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
MAJOR SPECIFICATIONS [MARK II Series]
MAJOR SPECIFICATIONS [Chaser Series]