- I am on the search for the perfect balance between a daily driver and a fun toy. I am currently looking at a 1981 toyota corrolla wagon with a 5 speed manual transmission. The 3tc engine is bone stock and so is the transmission and the only mods have been suspension work and new speakers. I know the 3tc engines are reliable but are they able to stand up even today? Im going to be commuting quite a bit and need a car that is going to last and im really hoping this is it because I love the car. Im buying it private party, 110k miles, mechanic says its in great shape, and its only 4,000 dollars
So many mixed answers... Scotty actually replied to my other threads saying its a reliably designed car and if my mechanic approves then it may be a good daily... what do yall think? Got a lot of love for older cars so im kinda bias and need a second set of eyes to help with the decision. I appreciate all the feedback!!!
Those were reliable cars when built but a lot of things change in 40 years time. Relying on a car that old as a daily commuter to get to your job, especially if you do not have an alternate vehicle available, is a pretty big gamble.
There is no such thing as a reliable, daily driven 40 year old anything. You literally never know when something is going to go out on it.
And $4000? No way.
Too old and way too much.
Well it is 40 years old. How available are parts, will you need to wait for them if something like the ignition module gives out or the carb needs to be rebuilt? Are you in an area where it will have to pass emissions checks? In some places, like the Peoples' Republic of California, you'll fail smog if original parts of the emission control system are missing or hacked even if the actual tailpipe emissions are OK, and some of those parts may be difficult to find.
no, not a daily. Weekend toy maybe, but a Corolla?
That thing was $6,500 brand new. That is $16,400 in today’s dollars.
And it’s going for $4,000, almost 40 years later.
Wild.
That is a 40 year old car and you will be commuting quite a bit you said, so unless the vehicle has been completely restored (materials degrade due to age and need replacing) I would be looking at a newer vehicle. For that price point you should be able to find something from MY 2000 or newer at least.
- I am on the search for the perfect balance between a daily driver and a fun toy. I am currently looking at a 1981 toyota corrolla wagon with a 5 speed manual transmission. The 3tc engine is bone stock and so is the transmission and the only mods have been suspension work and new speakers. I know the 3tc engines are reliable but are they able to stand up even today? Im going to be commuting quite a bit and need a car that is going to last and im really hoping this is it because I love the car. Im buying it private party, 110k miles, mechanic says its in great shape, and its only 4,000 dollars
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Although it’s reliable, it’s probably too old to be driven down the road. But if you don’t care about the age and the car is trouble free, then go for it. It can last you a while as long as it’s taken care of.
well they are great cars I own one back in the day just realized they're old is the hills now so I have a mechanic check went out before you buy it
I have a 1988 Toyota Camry and I use it everyday
Remember the interior and all the plastic parts are 40 years old. Im sure the mechanics will hold up fine. But as a daily driver Im sure seats, door panels etc will start to wear quickly. Now an 81 celica would be worth the price. But again I wouldn’t drive it daily.
