Toyota Crown IX (S140) gallery (1991–1995)

The ninth generation (1991) revolutionized the model by abandoning body-on-frame construction in favor of a unibody for hardtops and the new Majesta series.

All photos 79 I (S10) 0 1955–1962 II (S40) 0 1962–1967 III (S50) 0 1967–1971 IV (S60) 0 1971–1974 V (S80) 0 1974–1979 VI (S110) 0 1979–1983 VII (S120) 0 1983–1987 VIII (S130) 0 1987–1999 IX (S140) 0 1991–1995 X (S150) 0 1995–2001 XI (S170) 0 1999–2007 XII (S180) 12 2003–2008 XIII (S200) 0 2008–2012 XIV (S210) 8 2012–2018 XV (S220) 0 2018–2022 XVI (S235) 41 2022

Launched in 1991, the ninth-generation Toyota Crown (S140 series) marked a pivotal turning point in the model's history. For the first time, the hardtop versions (Crown Royal) and the newly introduced flagship Crown Majesta utilized a unibody construction, while standard sedans retained the traditional body-on-frame architecture with minimal styling updates. The shift to a unibody significantly reduced weight, improved handling dynamics, and increased torsional rigidity. The hardtop's exterior styling became more aerodynamic and substantial, perfectly reflecting the 'biodesign' trends of the 1990s.

The engine lineup was anchored by the highly reliable JZ-series inline-6 engines (2.5 and 3.0 liters). The luxurious Majesta variant offered a 260-horsepower 4.0-liter V8. These powerplants were paired with either a 4-speed or a new 5-speed automatic transmission. The S140 introduced advanced safety features, including a driver's airbag, seatbelt pretensioners, and ABS. The cabin utilized premium materials, and the seats could be equipped with power adjustments and a vibration massage function.