Title: The Legacy of the Toyota Corolla Wagon: A Nostalgic Journey
The Toyota Corolla, a beloved vehicle of American car shoppers, offered station wagons from 1968 to 1996 (with a brief hiatus from 1984 to 1987). Eventually, the popular Corolla-related RAV4 took over. Among the longroof Corollas sold in the United States, the fourth-generation TE71/TE72 version, available from 1980 to 1983, presented a notable choice. We stumbled upon a first-year example of this iconic wagon in a Denver car graveyard, and its story is worth exploring.
Introduced in 1980, the U.S.-market Corolla had an impressive array of options, including two- or four-door sedans, coupes, two-door liftbacks, and station wagons (known as the Corolla Van in Japan). Additionally, there was the Corolla Tercel, an unrelated car that merely capitalized on the Corolla’s brand recognition. This strategy continued with later models, as exemplified by the Toyota Aqua’s rebranding as the Prius C in the United States.
While front-wheel-drive Corollas arrived in the U.S. market with the E80 series in 1984, some of these models were rear-wheel-drive AE86s. Adding to the confusion, the E80 platform supported both front- and rear-wheel-drive layouts. Our discovery, however, represents a classic rear-wheel-drive Corolla, featuring the robust 3T-C pushrod engine. Although it produced a modest 73 horsepower, this vehicle’s curb weight just exceeded one ton.
Despite its lack of power and spinning capabilities, the 3T-C engine displayed remarkable durability. It became known for its resilience, akin to post-nuclear-war mutant cockroaches. Even upon our arrival at the car graveyard, someone had already purchased the cylinder head, revealing the enduring value of its parts.
Examining the interior, we can deduce that this particular wagon may not be a top-trim-level SR5. However, it boasts an array of extra-cost options, such as air conditioning. Notably, it also features a factory-installed Fujitsu TEN AM/FM radio, considered advanced audio hardware for an affordable car in 1980. In fact, these radios were frequently targeted by thieves during the 1980s, highlighting their desirability at the time.
Unveiling hints about the car’s history, it appears that this Corolla began its journey in Washington D.C. Unfortunately, we cannot determine the exact mileage as Toyota did not introduce six-digit odometers in U.S.-market Corollas until 1982. However, in a previous junkyard find, we discovered a 1991 wagon with an astonishing 315,406 miles on the odometer. It is likely that this car also surpassed the 300,000-mile mark, further solidifying its reputation for reliability.
Notably, our investigation suggests that this car was originally purchased from a Virginia dealership in the D.C. suburbs, corroborated by the Dulles Airport parking sticker found on its window. It sparks nostalgic wonder – perhaps this very vehicle transported influential punk band Bad Brains and their instruments to their gigs.
Although other models such as the sportier liftbacks and coupes received more advertising attention during their heyday, this humble Corolla wagon holds a special place in automotive history. Its longevity, resilience, and affordable luxury options make it an endearing choice for car enthusiasts seeking both practicality and versatility.
In conclusion, the Toyota Corolla wagon’s story showcases its lasting impact on American car culture. Despite being overshadowed by other models, this fourth-generation TE71/TE72 version embodies the quintessential qualities that made the Corolla a household name. From its initial options to its robust engine, advanced features, and mysterious history, this Denver car graveyard discovery provides a fascinating glimpse into the enduring appeal of the Corolla wagon.