The 1983 Toyota Corolla was yet another step toward Toyota’s commitment to reliability, affordability, and thinking efficiency. A part of the fifth generation (E80 series), the Corolla adopted a more modern approach and provided various configurations that matched diverse customer tastes. It became globally the best-selling and therefore consolidated its image as a credible, compact sedan.
The specifications and features of the 1983 Corolla are described briefly below.
Standard front and rear seat belts (manual three-point seat belts in front).
Collapsible Steering Column
Designed to reduce the risk of injury during a frontal collision.
Energy-Absorbing Steering Wheel
Helps minimize impact injuries in the event of a crash.
Side-Impact Door Beams
Reinforced doors to provide limited protection during side collisions.
Laminated Windshield
Reduces the risk of glass shattering during impacts.
Padded Dashboard
Minimizes head injuries during a collision.
Child Safety Locks
Available on some rear doors to prevent accidental opening by children.
Drum and Disc Brakes
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.
High-Mounted Brake Light
A feature that was beginning to be adopted around this period (varies by model).
Crush Zones
Front and rear areas designed to absorb impact energy during a crash.
1983 Toyota Corolla Interior
The interior features of the 1983 Toyota Corolla focused on practicality and comfort, keeping in line with the standards of economy cars during that era. Here’s a summary in table format:
Interior Feature
Description
Seating
Cloth or vinyl upholstery with standard front bucket seats and a rear bench.
Dashboard
Simple, functional design with easy-to-read analog gauges and speedometer.
Steering Wheel
Standard two-spoke design with no power-assist or tilt adjustment.
Climate Control
Basic manual heater and ventilation system; air conditioning available as an option.
Audio System
AM/FM radio with optional cassette player; basic single-speaker system.
Storage
Modest glove compartment, door pockets (varied by trim), and rear parcel shelf.
Carpet and Trim
Basic carpeting and plastic trim in most models; higher trims had better finishes.
Windows
Manual roll-down windows; power windows were not available.
Lighting
Interior dome light and basic dashboard illumination.
Rearview Mirror
Manual day-night adjustment for glare reduction.
Sun Visors
Included for driver and passenger, without mirrors in base trims.
Instrument Panel
Speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, and basic warning lights
Optional Features
Higher trims could include slightly upgraded materials, clock, or tachometer.
1983 Toyota Corolla Exterior
Feature
Details
Body Styles
Sedan, Hatchback, Wagon
Headlights
Rectangular sealed-beam headlights
Wheels
13-inch or 14-inch steel wheels
Paint Options
Solid and metallic finishes
Trim Levels
Base, DX, SR5
Design
Aerodynamic with clean lines
Chrome Details
Minimal chrome accents
Door Handles
Body-colored or chrome pull-type handles
Windows
Manual or optional power windows
Roof Options
Standard or optional sunroof
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 1983 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 1983 Toyota Corolla mightily gained accolades for reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The variety of configurations and Toyota’s legendary build quality made this model popular among families and commuters. Today, it still serves as a loved classic among enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its simple yet timeless charisma.
