The 1985 Toyota Corolla specs include a Inline 4-cylinder SOHC engine, front-wheel drive system, and 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic. This guide covers engine performance, MPG, price, and key features of the 1985 Corolla. Image courtesy
1985 Toyota Corolla Engine Specifications
Specification
Details
Engine Types
Inline 4-cylinder (petrol & diesel options)
Displacement Options
1.3L (1295 cc), 1.5L, 1.6L (1587 cc), 1.8L diesel
Valve Train
SOHC (DOHC for GT models)
Fuel System
Carburetor / EFI (GT models)
Power Output
~58 hp (diesel) to 116–124 hp (GT-S)
Torque
~90–142 Nm
Engine Layout
Front-engine
Platform
E80 generation
Performance
Specification
Details
Transmission (Standard)
5-speed manual
Optional Transmission
3-speed / 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD (sedan, hatchback) / RWD (AE86 coupe)
Top Speed
~160–196 km/h (varies by engine)
Acceleration
~8.7–15 sec (0–60 mph depending on model)
Driving Focus
Economy + sporty (GT models)
Fuel Economy
Specification
Details
Fuel Efficiency
~25–36 MPG (varies by engine)
Fuel Tank Capacity
~50 L (13.2 gallons)
Economy Focus
Lightweight + efficient engines
Diesel Option
High fuel efficiency (1.8L diesel)
Safety Features
Specification
Details
Brakes
Front disc, rear drum
Body Structure
Unitized body
Lighting
Halogen headlights
Mirrors
Dual exterior mirrors
Safety Tech
Basic (no ABS / airbags in 1985 era)
Interior Features
Feature
Details
Seating
Reclining front bucket seats
Upholstery
Cloth (varies by trim)
Instrument Cluster
Speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights
Advanced Gauges
Tachometer (SR5 / GT models)
Audio
AM/FM radio, cassette optional
Climate
Heater standard, A/C optional
Cargo
Fold-down rear seats (liftback)
Comfort
Improved ergonomics, more legroom (FWD models)
Exterior Features
Feature
Details
Headlights
Rectangular halogen
Wheels
Steel wheels / optional alloy
Paint
Solid & two-tone options
Styling
Modernized 1980s angular design
Glass
Tinted glass
Trim Differences
Sport trims include decals, spoilers
1985 Toyota Corolla Dimensions
Specification
Details
Length
~162–166 inches (varies by body)
Width
~64 inches
Height
~54 inches
Wheelbase
~95.7 inches
Kerb Weight
~850–970 kg
Seating Capacity
4–5 persons
Trims & Variants
Variant
Description
Base / STD
Entry-level economy
XL / GL / LE
Mid-range comfort trims
SR5
Sport-oriented trim
GT / GT-S
High-performance DOHC models
2-Door Coupe (AE86)
RWD sporty coupe
4-Door Sedan
Family sedan
Liftback / Hatchback
Practical compact
Wagon / Van
Utility-focused
Chassis & Suspension
Specification
Details
Front Suspension
MacPherson strut
Rear Suspension
Torsion beam (FWD) / live axle (RWD)
Stabilizer Bar
Available
Steering
Rack & pinion
Ride Quality
Comfortable, improved stability
Wheels & Tyres
Specification
Details
Tyre Type
Steel-belted radial
Sizes
155SR13, 165SR13, 185/70R13
Wheels
Steel wheels standard
Optional
Alloy wheels, whitewall tyres
Standard Features (From Brochure)
Category
Features
Mechanical
1.3–1.6L engines, FWD layout
Interior
Reclining seats, carpeting
Instrumentation
Basic gauges
Exterior
Halogen headlights, styled grille
Convenience
Tinted glass
Safety
Disc/drum brakes
Optional Features & Packages
Category
Options
Comfort
Air conditioning
Steering
Power steering
Transmission
Automatic gearbox
Audio
Cassette player upgrade
Exterior
Alloy wheels, two-tone paint
Utility
Rear wiper, rear defogger
Sunroof
Available
Sport Package
SR5 / GT trims (includes sport seats, styling)
Current Market Value (USA – 2026 estimate)
Condition
Price
Project Car
$2,000 – $4,000
Good Condition
$5,000 – $10,000
Excellent / Restored
$12,000 – $20,000+
AE86 GT-S
$20,000 – $40,000+ (collector value)
1985 Toyota Corolla FAQs
What trim levels were available?
Standard, DX, LE (sedan/wagon) SR5 (sport trim) GT-S (performance model)
What body styles were offered?
2-door coupe 4-door sedan 3-door hatchback (FX) 5-door hatchback Wagon
What transmission options are available?
5-speed manual transmission 3-speed or 4-speed automatic
Is the 1985 Toyota Corolla reliable?
Yes, it’s considered very reliable: Simple mechanical design Durable engines Easy and cheap to maintain
What common problems should you know?
Typical issues due to age include: Rust (body and chassis) Worn suspension components Carburetor or fuel system issues Oil leaks
What should you check before buying a used 1985 Corolla?
Rust condition (very important) Engine and gearbox health Suspension and bushings Availability of spare parts Service history
