With the 1981 Toyota Corolla, Toyota maintained its tradition of offering reliable, fuel-efficient, and versatile vehicles. The Corolla, belonging to the fourth-generation (E70 series), was available in several body styles: sedan, coupe, lift back, wagon, and hatchback. Its target market consisted of everyone, ranging from families to commuters, with its great build quality and practical features.
View the detailed specifications and features of the 1981 Toyota Corolla are onboard.
Engine Specs and Features
Feature
Details
Engine Options
1.3L inline-4, 1.6L inline-4, 1.8L inline-4
Horsepower
60-75 hp, depending on the engine
Torque
75-90 lb-ft
Transmission Options
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Fuel System
Carburetor
Drive Type
Rear-wheel drive
Cooling System
Water-cooled
Performance
Reliable and efficient for daily driving
Fuel and MPG
Feature
Details
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity
13.2 gallons
City MPG
Approximately 25-30 mpg
Highway MPG
Approximately 30-35 mpg
Combined MPG
27-32 mpg
Dimensions
Feature
Details
Length
163-170 inches, depending on the body style
Width
63 inches
Height
54-55 inches
Wheelbase
94.5 inches
Curb Weight
1,900-2,200 pounds
Cargo Capacity
10-15 cubic feet (sedan models)
Safety Features
Feature
Details
Brakes
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
Seat Belts
Standard lap belts, optional 3-point belts
Crumple Zones
None
Safety Glass
Laminated windshield
Door Locks
Manual locking system
Child Safety Features
None
Lighting
Halogen headlights and side marker lights
Additional Features
Reinforced chassis for durability
1981 Toyota Corolla Interior Features
Feature
Details
Seating Capacity
4-5 passengers
Upholstery
Vinyl or cloth options
Dashboard
Simple and functional layout
Entertainment System
AM/FM radio; optional cassette player
Climate Control
Manual controls with optional air conditioning
Storage
Glove box and center console compartments
Steering Wheel
Standard non-adjustable
Interior Trim
Durable plastic and fabric finishes
Rear Seat
Fixed or foldable (wagon and hatchback models)
Lighting
Overhead dome light
1981 Toyota Corolla Exterior Features
Feature
Details
Body Styles
Sedan, Coupe, Lift back, Wagon, Hatchback
Headlights
Rectangular sealed-beam headlights
Wheels
13-inch steel wheels
Paint Options
Solid and metallic colors
Trim Levels
Base, DX, SR5
Design
Boxy and aerodynamic
Chrome Details
Minimal chrome accents
Door Handles
Sturdy pull-type handles
Windows
Manual windows; optional rear defroster
Roof Options
None
Current Selling Price in U.S.
Condition
Price Range
Excellent (Restored)
$10,000 – $15,000
Good (Well-maintained)
$6,000 – $10,000
Fair (Functional but Worn)
$3,000 – $6,000
Poor (Needs Restoration)
$1,500 – $3,000
Note: Prices can vary based on vehicle condition, originality, and market demand. You can find 1981 Toyota Corolla for sale in classic car marketplaces like Hemmings, Bring a Trailer, and eBay Motors, where prices tend to fluctuate based on demand and specific car conditions.
The 1981 model of Toyota Corolla was known to be reliable and affordable for all categories of people. Known for its reliability, the practical design has made the car one of the most popular compact cars to own to this date. The Corolla E70 series is one of the most cherished cars today by the enthusiasts and collectors because of the simplicity and good engineering.
