The Toyota Corolla has the distinction of being the bestselling car of all time. It began as a subcompact and has evolved through the years to adapt to the market and what buyers want. It remains a favorite model for rental fleets and commuters who want something reliable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable. Let’s take a look at some of the older Toyota Corolla models and generations.
1966 – 1970 Used Toyota Corolla
You might have some trouble finding these old Corollas on the used market these days, but this is a classic example of the first subcompact Corolla. Powered by a little 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine that made a mere 60 horsepower, this sedan wasn’t fast, but it was very reliable and fuel-efficient.
1970 – 1978 Used Toyota Sedan
By the 1970s, the Corolla was a little more energetic with a 73-horsepower engine. These newer models offered more interior comfort and a better driving experience. Several versions of these Toyota sedans were sold overseas, including a wagon model, and sporty models like the Sprinter and Levin.
1984 – 1987 Used Toyota Corolla AE86
This is one of the most classic models of the Toyota Corolla. The acronym of AE86 stands for the 4-A series 1.6-liter engine, the E Corolla model line, the 8 somehow represents the fifth generation, and the 6 stands for the engine’s cylinder head. In Japan, this car became known as the “Hachi-Roku”, which is Japanese for “eight-six.”
1987 – 1988 FX16 GT-S
There were definitely some sporty models in the older Corollas as well. The FX16 GT-S hatchback was one of these. It featured a 1.6-liter 16-valve, dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine that made 108 horsepower at 6600 RPM. This was the same engine put into the MR2 sports coupe of the day.
1988 – 1991 Used Toyota GT-S
This generation of the Corolla was no longer RWD, but it was still pretty sporty with a 4A-GE four-cylinder engine. The late 80s styling definitely makes it a desired model on the used market with cool pop-up headlights and a ribbed shift boot inside.
2003 – 2006 Used Toyota XRS
Moving into the 2000s and these Toyota sedans take on a more familiar look to modern drivers. This model range offered a 1.8-liter 2ZZ engine that was in a few other Toyota small cars of the time, including the Celica and Matrix. This little engine made a nice 170 horsepower, and adding to its sporty feel were upgraded shocks and springs and 16-inch wheels.
2018 – Present Used Toyota Corolla
The latest Corolla models don’t look much like the classic used Toyota Corolla models mentioned here, but they are undeniably sporty. Toyota has recently added a practical hatchback option as well. This Toyota sedan was fully redesigned in 2018 and is now in its twelfth generation.
What’s next for the Corolla? Toyota intends to push limits with the unveiling of the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla as a hot hatch. It makes 300 horsepower and even comes with a six-speed intelligent manual transmission.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.