1994 Toyota Corolla

Hey, if you are looking for an honest opinion about the 1994-1997 Toyota Corolla, listen to mine. I love my Corolla, and that is in spite of the fact that I had such a terrible experience with my previous Toyota (a 1987 Tercel hatchback) that at one point I vowed never to own a Toyota car again. I mean, let's face it: I bought the Tercel used with only 126000 miles on it, and three months later I had such major mechanical problems with the car that I had to roll start it and pop the clutch every time I needed to crank it! If that wouldn't sour one's attitude a carmaker, I don't know what would.

But nonetheless, forget about the Tercel. That's not what I'm rating. And I don't want you to get confused and think that I'm downing the Corolla... since, well... I would never do such a thing! The Corolla is wonderful, and quite possibly the best car I've ever had (and don't get me wrong, I have had better cars than that Tercel).

I bought my Corolla used with 93000 miles. I bought the absolutely featureless Corolla model that doesn't even qualify to be labeled as a DX! My Corolla has none of the available options for 1994. My equipment list is as follows:
speedometer, temperature gauge, fuel gauge, manual windows/locks, manual gearbox, AM/FM cassette, A/C, and that's it. Nevermind that though, for the Corolla makes up for what it doesn't have. What I mean, frankly, is that the Corolla is plain and simple, but a great car to drive with a lot of spirit and a fun attitude. I get great performance out of my five speed, and the car still shifts smoothly and effortlessly. I can outpace and whip around most of the gas-guzzling SUVs here in town. 0-50 is quite quick, and I have no sluggish response at gear change intervals. Even with lots of hard revving in 3rd gear, the car still pulls fine around 35-40 mph (which isn't true for many cars). The sporty steering is a quick complement to the quickness of the car, and overall the agility of the car is pleasing. I have found, however, that the car doesn't do well over 80, particularly because it's light frame makes steadiness a problem as such high speeds. I recommend it for in-town types who like to drive around 55-60 (not normal speed limits, I know, but if you're like me...)

One other highlight of the car is it's great fuel economy. I read on this site that 26 is the expected city economy. HA! That must be for an automatic! I easily get 34mpg just speeding around town, and that's even with lots of frequent stops because I love to accelerate from zero in that little car. Seriously, I take the neighborhood routes often just to catch stop signs and find tight turns! Heck, on the road I may easily get 46-48 mpg, and that's at a steady 78mph!
Believe me, I love this car! I've already put 18000 miles on it and it still drives like new. I have had no problems with the mechanics of the car and I've found that with premium gas and quality synthetic oil I get cleaner, faster acceleration than many V-6s. (And I only have the 1.6 four, not the 1.8!)

Ok, well I'm sure this is long enough. I love my Corolla, and I don't even care that it's bargain-basement interior and bland exterior (Who designed those awful hubcaps???? They look like plastic replacement hubs that you buy at Western Auto for $12!)are what they are. I just am proud to have a reliable, quality car that is so economical and so much fun to drive. If you like cheap cars that run great, maybe consider one of these for yourself. Going rate is about $5000 now, and provided that you choose a manual, you're bound to get your money's worth!