The 1981 Toyota Corona model is a mid-size sedan car, which was intended to have both reliable performance and functional utilitarian utility. A two-door lift back design, the T130 series formed the seventh generation Galant series, which came in sedan, lift back, wagon, and coupe guise. Corona became famous because it was providing all the features one could look for in an average car of that time: such as comfort, reliability for everyday usage as well as more serious one, like driving for work, for families.
Engine Specs and Features
Feature
Details
Engine Options
1.6L inline-4, 1.8L inline-4, 2.0L inline-4
Horsepower
75-100 hp, depending on the engine
Torque
85-120 lb-ft
Transmission Options
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Fuel System
Carburetor
Drive Type
Rear-wheel drive; some models featured 4WD
Cooling System
Water-cooled
Performance
Engineered for reliability and everyday usability
Fuel and MPG
Feature
Details
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity
13.2 gallons
City MPG
Approximately 20-25 mpg
Highway MPG
Approximately 25-30 mpg
Combined MPG
22-27 mpg
Dimensions
Feature
Details
Length
174-179 inches, depending on the body style
Width
64 inches
Height
54-58 inches
Wheelbase
98 inches
Curb Weight
2,300-2,700 pounds
Cargo Capacity
12-15 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 Corona Interior Features
Feature
Details
Seating Capacity
4-5 passengers
Upholstery
Vinyl or cloth options
Dashboard
Simple and ergonomic design
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 wood-like finishes
Rear Seat
Fixed or foldable (lift back and wagon models)
Lighting
Overhead dome light and courtesy lights
1981 Toyota Corona Exterior Features
Feature
Details
Body Styles
Sedan, Lift back, Wagon, Coupe
Headlights
Rectangular sealed-beam headlights
Wheels
13-inch or 14-inch steel wheels
Paint Options
Solid and metallic colors
Trim Levels
Base, DX, and LE
Design
Boxy yet 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)
$8,000 – $12,000
Good (Well-maintained)
$5,000 – $8,000
Fair (Functional but Worn)
$3,000 – $5,000
Poor (Needs Restoration)
$1,000 – $3,000
Note: Prices can vary based on vehicle condition, location, and market demand. You can find 1981 Toyota Corona 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.
In general the 1981 Toyota Corona was considered to be an essentially conservative car that combined practicality with reliability to suit a large population of car buyers. The car was highly versatile in body styles and ran efficiently to boot making it ideal for families and the working class as well as the daily commuter. Today, it continues to enjoy some attention from the classic car aficionado who will enjoy the car for its basic design and tough build.
