What exactly have your problems been? I own a 05 SE with a manual
trans, and I haven’t had any issues. Am I missing something?

Opinions will differ, but I would choose 1994 - 1996 four cylinder.

Later years may have improved (side) impact safety, but don't believe
you will find a higher percentage of overall owner satisfaction. Seemed
that everyone I spoke to was extremely pleased with their car,
including my mechanic whose daughter who came off a freeway embankment,
rolled the car, and walked away unharmed (he credited the air bag).
By now there are maintenance issues though, oil seals, etc., but you
said you didn't care about the age. If you could provide the labor, the
cost of the seals themselves is minimal.

Your '05 has the variable valve timing for more power.

Personally, I would also find the '94 - 96 Japan manufacture with the
"J" as the first letter in the VIN.

'94 was the first year of dual front air bags and CFC free 134a A/C
refrigerant

These (and the prior generation with the smaller engine size) are the
Camrys that people loved, "best car they've ever owned", never break
down,  type comments that built the reputation of Camry in this country.

Me thinks you worry too much.
How about enjoying the 2005 SE?
I'm sure there's a ready resale market if you think you can find
something better.
Sounds like you're more of a Volvo kind of guy - just bring your
checkbook when you visit the mechanic.
~~~~~~~
I remember when Consumer Reports reviewed my Cadillac. They listed all
sorts of complaints and problems - of which I had experienced none.
~~~~~~
Just do your own research, model by model on NHTSA's web site if that's
what floats your boat then report back after a few years to see if
you're pleased with the selection.
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As a home mechanic doing all my own mechanical work, I look at the
design and engineering aspects - and from my own observations, continue
to be impressed by the quality of the Toyota overall.
~~~~~~~
Toyota Motor Company is the second largest automaker in the world,
profitable and well managed. I'd be surprised to discover their
worldwide increasing market share is built on dangerous or poor quality
"problematic" products.
~~~~
In my admittedly limited understanding, NHTSA primarily focuses on
crashworthiness - so as regulations are promulgated, the later model
years should have higher levels of compliance. Your 2005 should be
higher on their list than earlier years.
~~~~~~~~~
My recommendation? Learn, practice and perfect The Smith System of
defensive driving, "the closest thing to an accident free guarantee."
Decades ago, Harold Smith studied long distance professional accident
free drivers and isolated and taught the characteristics that made them
exceptional. The principles are still valid today and well worth
studying.
~~~
As always, just my opinion, you're free to differ.