Categories 4 Wheels

Best Selling Cars Each Year From 1978-2020

Tracking the best-selling cars year after year reveals fascinating trends in automotive history. Sure, some names like Toyota and Ford often dominate the scene, but the story isn’t that simple. Each year tells a tale of shifting tastes, economic changes, and technological breakthroughs.

For example, in 1978  the gas crisis pushed fuel-efficient cars to the top, while in recent years, SUVs have taken over. Understanding these shifts can even help guide future car-buying decisions. This list only contains cars, not trucks or SUVs. 

1978: Oldsmobile Cutlass – 520,279 units sold

1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Coupe
Rutger van der Maar – 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Coupe / Flickr

In 1978, the Oldsmobile Cutlass took the crown with over half a million units sold. Known for its stylish design and powerful V8 engine options, the Cutlass became a favorite among American drivers. It was particularly loved for offering luxury-like features at an affordable price.

This car stood out in the late ‘70s as gas prices were stabilizing, and the market was leaning towards more comfortable, mid-sized vehicles. The Cutlass delivered on that, providing a smooth ride for families across the country.

1979: Oldsmobile Cutlass – 518,160 units sold

1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Dennis Elzinga – 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass / Flickr

The Oldsmobile Cutlass continued to dominate the U.S. auto market in 1979. Its reputation for durability and reliability contributed to its sustained popularity. The design updates kept it fresh while maintaining the qualities that made it a best-seller.

This year marked a period of economic uncertainty, but the Cutlass held strong with its blend of performance and value, which helped Oldsmobile keep its position at the top.

1980: Oldsmobile Cutlass – 469,573 units sold

Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Coupe 1980
RL GNZLZ – Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Coupe 1980 / Flickr

Even with a slight drop in sales, the Oldsmobile Cutlass remained the best-seller in 1980. With its sleek look and consistent performance, it was a hit among consumers seeking a reliable ride.

As the country moved further into the 1980s, car buyers appreciated the Cutlass for its balance between size and fuel economy, which was important as the fuel crisis remained fresh in everyone’s mind.

1981: Oldsmobile Cutlass – 454,188 units sold

Oldsmobile Cutlass Sedan 1981
RL GNZLZ – Oldsmobile Cutlass Sedan 1981 / Flickr

Oldsmobile’s Cutlass once again held onto the top spot in 1981. Its roomy interiors, paired with the reputation it had built over the years, made it a go-to for drivers who wanted comfort and practicality.

This marked the fourth consecutive year the Cutlass led sales, showcasing its place as a favorite among American families who trusted it for long-lasting value.

1982: Ford Escort – 337,667 units sold

Ford Escort (1982)
Txemari. (Navarra). – Ford Escort (1982) / Flickr

Breaking the Cutlass streak, the Ford Escort took over as the top seller in 1982. The Escort was Ford’s response to the demand for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. Its compact size made it ideal for city driving while also being affordable for first-time car buyers.

The Escort’s popularity highlighted a shift in consumer preferences towards compact cars, especially as fuel efficiency became more of a priority in the post-gas crisis era.

1983: Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme – 331,179 units sold

1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham
Greg Gjerdingen – 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Brougham / Wikimedia Commons

Oldsmobile was back on top in 1983, but this time with the Cutlass Supreme. A slightly more luxurious take on the Cutlass, the Supreme offered upgraded features that appealed to those who wanted a bit more comfort and style.

Its V8 power and smooth ride made it an excellent option for both families and business professionals, helping it reclaim its best-seller status, even if just for one more year.

1984: Chevrolet Cavalier – 383,752 units sold

1984 Cavalier Convertible
Josh Graciano – 1984 Cavalier Convertible / Flickr

Chevrolet made its mark in 1984 with the Cavalier, a small and budget-friendly car that gained popularity quickly. Its affordable price, combined with decent fuel economy, made it a hit among younger buyers and those looking for a practical car.

The Cavalier was Chevrolet’s successful attempt at competing in the compact car market, offering good value for the price-conscious buyer.

1985: Chevrolet Cavalier – 422,927 units sold

Chevrolet Cavalier 2.0 Coupe 1985
RL GNZLZ – Chevrolet Cavalier 2.0 Coupe 1985 / Flickr

Chevrolet managed to hold on to the top spot for a second year in 1985 with the Cavalier. Drivers loved the balance of economy and style that this small car provided.

Chevy’s focus on affordability and reliability paid off, as the Cavalier became the go-to option for many drivers across the country, especially those looking for their first car.

1986: Chevrolet Celebrity – 408,946 units sold

1986 Chevrolet Celebrity
Mr.choppers – 1986 Chevrolet Celebrity / Wikimedia Commons

In 1986, the Chevrolet Celebrity took over as the best-seller. It was a midsize car that provided a smooth ride and plenty of interior space, making it a popular choice for families.

The Celebrity’s straightforward design and strong performance helped it stand out in a competitive market, where practicality and comfort were highly valued by buyers.

1987: Ford Escort – 392,360 units sold

1987 Ford Escort 1.1 Popular Estate
Kieran White – 1987 Ford Escort 1.1 Popular Estate / Flickr

The Ford Escort returned to the top spot in 1987. Compact, affordable, and fuel-efficient, the Escort continued to appeal to a wide range of consumers, from young professionals to families looking for a second vehicle.

The car’s practical design and reasonable price tag made it an appealing option in a time when economic concerns still weighed on the minds of many Americans.

1988: Ford Escort – 381,330 units sold

1988 Ford Escort XR3i
Kieran White – 1988 Ford Escort XR3i / Flickr

Ford’s Escort managed to maintain its position in 1988. While other car makers focused on larger or more luxurious models, Ford stuck with its winning formula—keeping the Escort small, simple, and cost-effective.

The Escort was able to resonate with a wide range of buyers, from budget-conscious families to people living in urban environments needing a compact, dependable car.

1989: Honda Accord – 362,707 units sold

1989 Honda Accord Aerodeck
Rutger van der Maar – 1989 Honda Accord Aerodeck / Flickr

In 1989, the Honda Accord took the lead, marking a shift in the American market towards Japanese cars. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the Accord quickly became a favorite among drivers who wanted a car that would last without frequent repairs.

Honda’s reputation for building long-lasting vehicles made the Accord stand out, and its spacious interiors and refined design appealed to a wide variety of car buyers, securing its spot at the top.

1990: Honda Accord – 417,179 units sold

1990 Honda Accord
crash71100 – 1990 Honda Accord / Flickr

The Honda Accord kept its momentum in 1990 with an increase in sales. Its practicality, combined with improved safety features and smooth handling, made it the best-selling car for the second year in a row.

This model year further cemented Honda’s position in the U.S. market, as American consumers began to embrace the reliability and economy of Japanese cars over their domestic counterparts.

1991: Honda Accord – 399,297 units sold

Honda Accord 2.0i EX 1991
RL GNZLZ – Honda Accord 2.0i EX 1991 / Flickr

For the third consecutive year, the Honda Accord led the pack in 1991. Known for its comfortable ride and excellent build quality, the Accord continued to dominate the mid-size sedan market.

Honda’s commitment to consistently updating its design and improving its performance features helped the Accord stay on top during a time when competition in the sedan market was heating up.

1992: Ford Taurus – 409,751 units sold

Ford Taurus GL 1992
RL GNZLZ – Ford Taurus GL 1992 / Flickr

Ford reclaimed the crown in 1992 with the Taurus, a midsize sedan that balanced comfort, safety, and affordability. The Taurus had a bold, aerodynamic design that made it stand out from the competition.

Its spacious interior and focus on safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes helped the Taurus become a favorite among families, making it the best-selling car of the year.

1993: Ford Taurus – 360,448 units sold

Ford Taurus 3.0 GL 1993
RL GNZLZ – Ford Taurus 3.0 GL 1993 / Flickr

Ford continued to lead in 1993 with the Taurus remaining a popular choice. Despite a slight drop in sales, it still managed to stay at the top, thanks to its reputation for being reliable and affordable.

The Taurus was often seen as the perfect family car, providing a balance of performance, safety, and practicality, which resonated with a broad range of consumers.

1994: Ford Taurus – 397,037 units sold

1994 Ford Taurus GL Wagon
Cutlass – 1994 Ford Taurus GL Wagon / Wikimedia Commons

For the third year in a row, the Ford Taurus dominated the U.S. auto market in 1994. Its sleek design and dependable performance helped maintain its popularity, especially among suburban families.

By now, the Taurus had earned a reputation as the go-to family sedan, and its solid sales numbers reflected the strong demand for a car that was both functional and stylish.

1995: Ford Taurus – 366,266 units sold

Ford Taurus GL 1995
RL GNZLZ – Ford Taurus GL 1995 / Flickr

Though sales slightly dipped in 1995, the Ford Taurus continued to reign supreme. Its versatile design made it a hit with both families and individuals looking for a dependable daily driver.

The Taurus remained an appealing option for those who valued safety and comfort without breaking the bank, contributing to its continued success throughout the mid-1990s.

1996: Ford Taurus – 401,049 units sold

1996 Ford Taurus
Clechien – 1996 Ford Taurus / Flickr

In 1996, the Ford Taurus experienced a resurgence in sales, breaking the 400,000 mark once again. With its spacious cabin, excellent safety ratings, and smooth ride, it remained the best choice for many American families.

Its position as the best-selling car this year showed just how much Ford’s design resonated with buyers who wanted both style and practicality in their vehicles.

1997: Toyota Camry – 397,156 units sold

1997 Toyota Camry V6 Automatic 3.0
Vauxford – 1997 Toyota Camry V6 Automatic 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Toyota’s Camry overtook the competition in 1997, becoming the best-selling car in the U.S. for the first time. Known for its reliability, low maintenance costs, and fuel efficiency, the Camry quickly became a favorite among drivers.

This marked the beginning of the Camry’s long-standing reign as a top seller, thanks to its blend of durability and quality, which made it a smart buy for both families and commuters.

1998: Toyota Camry – 429,575 units sold

Toyota Camry V6 LE 1998
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry V6 LE 1998 / Flickr

In 1998, the Toyota Camry continued its dominance. It became a symbol of Toyota’s commitment to providing affordable, high-quality cars that lasted for years with minimal issues.

The Camry’s success came from its consistent reputation for reliability, which earned it loyalty from American drivers who valued long-term dependability over flashier, less durable options.

1999: Toyota Camry – 448,162 units sold

Toyota Camry 3.0 V6 (1999)
Andrew Bone – Toyota Camry 3.0 V6 (1999) / Flickr

With nearly 450,000 units sold, the Toyota Camry solidified its place as the best-selling car in 1999. Its simple, yet refined design made it a go-to choice for buyers looking for a vehicle that offered comfort and quality without excess luxury.

As the century came to a close, the Camry’s reliability and affordability helped it maintain its position at the top of the market, appealing to a wide range of buyers.

2000: Toyota Camry – 422,961 units sold

2000 Toyota Camry
crash71100 – 2000 Toyota Camry / Flickr

The Toyota Camry continued to dominate in 2000, maintaining its strong sales numbers. Its straightforward design, combined with excellent fuel economy and dependable performance, made it a favorite among drivers.

Toyota’s commitment to constant improvement helped the Camry stay competitive, as it remained one of the most trusted cars on the road.

2001: Honda Accord – 414,718 units sold

2001 Honda Accord
crash71100 – 2001 Honda Accord / Flickr

The Honda Accord reclaimed the top spot in 2001, showing that American consumers still trusted the brand’s legendary reliability and comfort. With a focus on smooth handling and fuel efficiency, the Accord appealed to those looking for a car that offered both practicality and style.

The Accord’s resurgence came as Honda continued to innovate, offering new technology and safety features that kept it competitive in the growing sedan market.

2002: Toyota Camry – 434,135 units sold

2002 Toyota Camry 3.0 V6
Rutger van der Maar – 2002 Toyota Camry 3.0 V6 / Flickr

The Toyota Camry returned to the top in 2002, continuing its legacy of reliability and low maintenance costs. Toyota’s focus on consistent quality kept buyers coming back to the Camry, which was widely known for its longevity.

As car buyers sought vehicles that they could depend on for years, the Camry remained one of the top choices for families and commuters alike, securing its place as the best-seller once again.

2003: Toyota Camry – 413,296 units sold

2003 Toyota Camry
Matthew Paul Argall – 2003 Toyota Camry / Flickr

In 2003, the Toyota Camry continued its reign as the best-selling car in the U.S. With over 400,000 units sold, the Camry remained a favorite due to its consistent reliability and cost-effectiveness. Toyota’s focus on refining the car’s design year after year paid off, as drivers flocked to the Camry for its balance of comfort and practicality.

At this point, the Camry had built a solid reputation as a long-lasting vehicle that required minimal maintenance, making it a go-to choice for families and commuters alike.

2004: Toyota Camry – 426,990 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.4 2004
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.4 2004 / Flickr

Toyota kept the momentum going in 2004, with the Camry once again topping the charts. With its smooth ride, spacious interior, and excellent fuel economy, the Camry was an easy choice for a wide variety of buyers, from first-time drivers to seasoned commuters.

Toyota’s attention to detail, particularly in safety and reliability, helped the Camry stand out as a dependable car that could go the distance without breaking the bank.

2005: Toyota Camry – 431,703 units sold

2005 Toyota Camry XLE
Brad E. Williams –  2005 Toyota Camry XLE / Wikimedia Commons

In 2005, the Toyota Camry showed no signs of slowing down. Its user-friendly design, combined with a comfortable interior and impressive fuel efficiency, made it the best-selling car for yet another year.

As the sedan market grew more competitive, the Camry’s reputation for reliability and minimal repair costs continued to win over drivers who needed a vehicle they could trust for daily use.

2006: Toyota Camry – 448,445 units sold

2006 Toyota Camry
Brenden Ashton – 2006 Toyota Camry / Flickr

The Toyota Camry continued to dominate the market in 2006, with over 448,000 units sold. Known for being a hassle-free car that offered solid performance and a comfortable ride, the Camry remained a top pick for families, professionals, and long-distance commuters.

With a reputation for lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper care, the Camry’s durability was a key factor in its ongoing success, especially in the face of growing competition.

2007: Toyota Camry – 473,108 units sold

2007 Toyota Camry
Richard Nacmias – 2007 Toyota Camry / Flickr

In 2007, the Toyota Camry reached new heights with an impressive 473,108 units sold. Consumers appreciated its continued refinement in areas like safety and fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and practical option for everyday driving.

The Camry’s ability to combine performance, reliability, and affordability made it a staple in households across the country, helping it maintain its dominance in the U.S. market.

2008: Toyota Camry – 436,617 units sold

2008 Toyota Camry
sv1ambo – 2008 Toyota Camry / Wikimedia Commons

Although sales dipped slightly in 2008, the Toyota Camry still held the top spot. Economic conditions were uncertain due to the financial crisis, but the Camry’s reputation for durability and fuel efficiency helped it remain the go-to car for practical buyers.

Even in tough economic times, the Camry’s low cost of ownership and strong resale value made it a smart choice for those looking to get the most out of their investment.

2009: Toyota Camry – 356,824 units sold

2009 Toyota Camry 2.0G
Manoj Prasad – 2009 Toyota Camry 2.0G / Flickr

In 2009, as the U.S. continued to grapple with economic challenges, the Toyota Camry remained a popular choice, even though overall car sales were down. With its proven track record for reliability, the Camry was a solid option for buyers looking for a dependable vehicle during tough times.

Toyota’s commitment to quality helped the Camry stay competitive, especially when many consumers were looking for cars that would last without requiring expensive repairs.

2010: Toyota Camry – 327,804 units sold

2010 Toyota Camry
Tino Rossini – 2010 Toyota Camry / Flickr

The Toyota Camry maintained its position at the top in 2010, even as the auto industry began to recover from the recession. Despite lower overall sales, the Camry’s balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability kept it as the best-selling car of the year.

The Camry’s reputation as a practical, no-frills car that could handle the demands of everyday life made it the go-to choice for drivers who prioritized value and longevity.

2011: Toyota Camry – 308,510 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.4 LEi 2011
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.4 LEi 2011 / Flickr

Toyota’s Camry stayed strong in 2011, with over 300,000 units sold. Although competition from other carmakers was growing, the Camry continued to shine due to its well-rounded nature—offering a comfortable ride, solid fuel economy, and a long lifespan.

For buyers who wanted a car they could rely on year after year, the Camry remained one of the best choices available, thanks to its enduring reputation for quality.

2012: Toyota Camry – 404,886 units sold

Toyota Camry V6 2012
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry V6 2012 / Flickr

Sales of the Toyota Camry bounced back in 2012, reaching over 400,000 units. With its redesigned exterior and upgraded interior features, the Camry attracted a new wave of buyers who were looking for something modern yet practical.

Toyota’s ability to blend innovation with the reliability that the Camry was known for helped the car retain its title as the best-selling vehicle for yet another year.

2013: Toyota Camry – 408,484 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.5 DLX 2013
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.5 DLX 2013 / Flickr

In 2013, the Toyota Camry once again led the pack, with over 408,000 units sold. The Camry’s spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and strong safety features made it a top pick for families and commuters.

Toyota continued to focus on improving fuel efficiency and performance, which kept the Camry ahead of its competitors in a market where practicality and long-term value were highly sought after.

2014: Toyota Camry – 428,606 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.5 LEi Luxury 2014
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.5 LEi Luxury 2014 / Flickr

The Toyota Camry saw even greater success in 2014, with sales climbing to over 428,000 units. The car’s refined look and feel, combined with its legendary reliability, helped it maintain its position as the best-selling car in the U.S.

As Toyota focused on enhancing the driving experience through improved handling and comfort, the Camry remained a top choice for drivers who wanted both performance and dependability.

2015: Toyota Camry – 429,355 units sold

2015 Toyota Camry Atara S
TuRbO_J – 2015 Toyota Camry Atara S / Flickr

In 2015, the Toyota Camry continued to dominate the market, breaking the 429,000-unit mark. With its proven reliability and impressive resale value, the Camry was a favorite among buyers who wanted a long-lasting vehicle without the hassle of frequent repairs.

Toyota’s commitment to continuous improvement in technology, comfort, and safety features made the Camry a solid choice for a wide range of buyers, from families to young professionals.

2016: Toyota Camry – 388,618 units sold

2016 Toyota Camry (XV50) 2.0G D-4S sedan
EurovisionNim – 2016 Toyota Camry (XV50) 2.0G D-4S sedan / Wikimedia Commons

Although sales dipped in 2016, the Toyota Camry remained the best-seller. Known for its affordability and long-lasting performance, the Camry was still the car of choice for practical drivers.

As the market grew more competitive, Toyota focused on updating the Camry’s design and improving its driving dynamics, ensuring that it remained a favorite among those seeking reliability and value.

2017: Toyota Camry – 387,081 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.5 XLE Hybrid 2017
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.5 XLE Hybrid 2017 / Flickr

The Toyota Camry held on to its top spot in 2017, with over 387,000 units sold. Even as other manufacturers introduced flashier models, the Camry’s reputation for being a dependable, no-nonsense car kept it at the forefront of the U.S. auto market.

Its strong safety ratings, combined with fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs, made the Camry an attractive option for buyers looking for a car they could trust year after year.

2018: Toyota Camry – 343,439 units sold

Toyota Camry 2.5 LE Hybrid 2018
RL GNZLZ – Toyota Camry 2.5 LE Hybrid 2018 / Flickr

In 2018, the Toyota Camry’s sales saw a slight dip, but it remained the best-selling car in the U.S. With a refreshed design and improved technology features, the Camry continued to appeal to a wide range of drivers.

Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the Camry stayed strong in the sedan market, proving that its combination of reliability, comfort, and value was hard to beat.

2019: Toyota Camry – 336,978 units sold

2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid
crash71100 – 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid / Flickr

As the auto market shifted towards SUVs and trucks, the Toyota Camry still managed to hold its ground in 2019. Though sales dipped further, the Camry remained the best-selling car, thanks to its reputation for being durable and dependable.

In an era where more drivers were opting for larger vehicles, the Camry’s ability to offer a smooth ride, great fuel economy, and a low cost of ownership kept it competitive.

2020: Toyota Camry – 294,348 units sold

2015 Toyota Camry Atara S
TuRbO_J – 2015 Toyota Camry Atara S / Flickr

In 2020, the Toyota Camry finished off another decade as the best-selling car in the U.S., even though sales dropped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Camry’s reputation for reliability, paired with its strong safety features, helped it maintain its place at the top.

Despite challenges in the market, the Camry proved that it could weather any storm, continuing to be a favorite for drivers who prioritized long-term value and consistent performance. 

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2024 chevrolet malibu on road
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There is no questioning that price increases have been coming on strong in the used car industry. But, in a glimmer of good news, these prices are starting to fall. This list features cars and trucks that are seeing the biggest used car price declines. Some even place car prices under $20,000! 

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