Should I buy 1988 Toyota Corolla?

Jennifer Sutherland · 25 Oct 2011, 03:10 am

The car looks like it's in quite good condition, but when I texted the owner about rust/dents he said there "are minimal dents and rust for it's age". I'm not too sure what he means by this.. I'm looking for a cheap first car .. Is this car worth it? ($1500)

HOLEY MUFFLERS · 25 Oct 2011, 03:24 am

impossible to tell in this venue. if it's close to 200,00 miles+- on the clock, might be a smidge high. even if it's not required in your area, passing an emissions test will speak volumes regarding overall engine condition. inquire.

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DO NOT consider any vehicle of this age w/o taking it to an ASE certified shop for inspection.

DO NOT take the sellers word for anything.

DO NOT buy it sight unseen.

LAURIE · 25 Oct 2011, 03:39 am

If you live on the east coast then body rust is what you get. The paint is very good on a Toyota. Look at it first. A a minimal dent might be to the owner could be a fender bashed in to you. What is the mileage. Can he prove regular maintenance? Have a Toyta mechanic run look at it. Cost you perhaps less than $100 for a check up. It's worth it. I have a 1996 Corolla with 300,100 on the engine. It's been a good car.

Terrence B · 25 Oct 2011, 03:55 am

They are great cars but 1991-1992 models are probably going for that much with the same amount of miles. I would recommend a fuel injected version if you go with a 1988 because the 1988-1989 models had carburetor issues. Plus fuel injected models will give you slightly better fuel economy plus a slight increase in power. I think 1990 was the year that all Corollas became fuel injected. The rule is generally avoid first year models of a car design and 1988 is a first year model. Still this is a Toyota and the older ones are some of the best cars on the road. Still, no matter what you buy , have it checked out by a mechanic before you buy.

Should I buy 1988 Toyota Corolla?

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