Faults:

The main problem was the Air Pump for emissions control. Later technology got rid of this device. The pump had a weak bearing design and would seize up every 30000 miles. I went through many of these. The pump was cheap to replace because you could obtain them at most junk yards.

General Comments:

This Corolla was a joy to work on because it had an inline, low-tech 4-cylinder engine and manual transmission with rear wheel drive. Japanese engines -- new or used -- are easily obtained, and I could have rebuilt this car until it had 1,000,000 miles! I don't think these sold for more than $4000 new, either.

Faults:

Rust in boot sills, roof sills, chassis rail. Total fixing cost about $600.

Blows the dash fuse several times a month, but this is quickly and cheaply fixed. I suspect the dodgy aftermarket brake light is causing this.

I've been thru 2 fuel pumps, but I think that's just bad luck.

The original carburettor is quite pathetic, no idle mixture adjustment and repair kits are difficult to find and expensive when you do. I have since replaced it with a Weber.

PVC Leather back seat hasn't taken too well to 27 years of sunlight.

Steering box has a lot of play. Suspension in general is getting old and worn and bouncy.

Only once has left me stranded, when the ignition coil resistor blew. Easily fixed by bypassing it.

General Comments:

I bought this car, not running, for $250 and have done all of the work on it myself. It's dead easy to maintain, repair and upgrade.

It's surprising the amount of oomph you can get from these little old engines with a decent exhaust and fuel system.

I think it's quite a good looking little car too, I intend to continue doing it up and will hopefully keep it for a while.

I've seen a lot of these cars still around, the engine will easily outlast the body.

The old saying is true, you just can't can't kill a Toyota!

Faults:

Rust in fenders.

Brakes front and back done at 130k.

General Comments:

This car has never failed me, it starts at first kick in -25 celcius.

Transmission is smooth like cream.

It rides low so it feels fast but is not = safe driving.