Toyota Corolla Hatchback 1.3 GLi 3d (1993/L) Owner Review
-
Economy
Value
Expensive, held its price OK considering the abuse I gave it in the 2 years I owned it and I think I only serviced it once in over 40,000 miles!
Costs
Minimal. Tyres were very cheap, a radiator rusted, but by that time it was 10 yrs old and it looked like someone had been a bit enthusiastic with the jet wash as most of the fins were blown out the radiator. Oh, I needed a 2" plate welded for its MOT!
-
On the road
Driving
I bought an L reg one in 2001 for £2800, a little above book price but had only 22,700 miles on it (backed up with service and MOT history). An excellent little car, not flash but honest and totally reliable even though it got abused senseless!
Performance
Not fast, but its only a 1.3 and once you built up speed you just kept it there, could sit at 105 on motorway in Germany until you got bored!
-
Living with it
Reliability
Rock solid! It coped with 2 years of abuse and almost no servicing. Started every time, no dramas, just did what it said on the tin.
Image
A bit bland, but still better looking than the newer model that replaced it.
Comfort
Fine! Not luxury, but absolutely fine.
-
Security and Service
Security
I don't know, nobody stole it, but I don't know it that was due to its plain looks.
Service
None required.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
For a little 1.3 it was unburstable, always got you there and without any nonsense. Not the fastest or quickest but totally Toyota.
Other
Lovely wee beast, considered a newer shape 1.6 but to be honest it didn't feel worth the extra money compared to my old one and the difference in engine size was hardly noticeable. I bought a 2.5 Galant instead.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes