1988 Toyota Corolla XL Liftback review from Australia and New Zealand
"If everyone learned to drive in one of these, there'd be no crashes"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Locked CV joint after 6 months of clicking.
The radiator blew twice.
Water pump has been replaced twice.
Recurring problems with the distributor turning itself, upsetting timing.
General comments?
This was my first road legal car, and I have to say it taught me how to really drive. There is something to be said for excessive body roll, slop in the suspension, and a very underpowered engine/body weight combo - it certainly showed me a thing or two.
The car has a very twitchy back end, although this has always been the case.
ABS would have been good, as it would have saved me the expense of replacing the headlights three times - let alone the cost of the other people's taillights.
The sills, A pillar, and tailgate surround are prone to rusting.
If I hadn't had the last crash, I would still be thrashing this Corolla - it won't die. Pity NZ cars need lights for a warranty of fitness.
This car performed remarkably well off-road, more-so than most "crossover" 4x4's.
Recommended reviews
| 1988 - Corolla AE 80 Hatchback Pov Pak 1.3 Budget car that is moody, but as robust as a tank |
|
| 1987 - Corolla SE 1.6 litre carburettor Very reliable and bullet proof |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 110000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 287567 kilometres |
| Previous car | Holden Commodore |
| Date of Entry | 13th March, 2004 |