How much was a 1979 Toyota Corolla?
A new 1979 Toyota Corolla in the United States typically carried a sticker price in the low thousands of dollars—roughly around $3,000 to $4,000 depending on trim and options. This article breaks down those figures, explains what influenced the price in 1979, and places them in historical context.
Pricing in 1979: What Buyers Paid
Below is a snapshot of typical US pricing for the 1979 Corolla, drawn from period brochures and automotive price guides. The exact price varied by body style, trim level, and region.
Base prices in the US ranged from preset minimums to higher configurations. The following estimates illustrate how the price could differ across common configurations.
- Base 2-door sedan: around $3,200
- 4-door sedan: around $3,400–$3,500
- Liftback/hatchback or higher-trim variants: around $3,800–$4,000
Note: These figures exclude destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, and any regional variations. Actual prices paid often included additional options or packages that could push the total above these figures.
Context and Comparisons
In the late 1970s, price competition in the compact car segment was intense as buyers sought fuel efficiency amid energy concerns. The Corolla competed with peers from American and European brands, offering reliability and economy that appealed to first-time buyers and budget-conscious families. Regional pricing, dealer incentives, and optional equipment all influenced the final sticker price in different markets.
How the Corolla fared against rivals
Compared with contemporaries like the Datsun/B210, Honda Civic, and Ford Escort, the Corolla often emphasized Toyota's reputation for practicality and long-term reliability, which could affect both resale value and perceived price-to-value ratio even in 1979.
Summary
A new 1979 Toyota Corolla typically cost around $3,000 to $4,000 in the U.S., with exact pricing depending on body style, trim, and options. The price reflected the era’s focus on affordable, fuel-efficient transportation and the wide range of configurations available. When considering a 1979 Corolla today, keep in mind historical price bands, regional differences, and the impact of inflation on what those dollars bought then versus now.
How much did a Toyota Corolla cost in 1980?
A new Toyota Corolla in 1980 was priced from approximately $4,198 for the base model up to $5,648 for the SR5 version, according to The Truth About Cars and J.D. Power. These prices would vary depending on the specific body style and options chosen.
- Base two-door sedan: Started at around $4,198.
- SR5 model: Started at $5,648.
- Other models: The range for a new 1980 Corolla was approximately $4,100–$9,500, depending on the trim and body style, notes Carsales.
How much did a car cost in 1979?
In 1979, a new car cost an average of about $6,848, with prices for specific models ranging from approximately $3,900 for a Chevy Chevette to over $10,000 for models like the Datsun 280ZX. Factors like optional equipment could significantly increase the sticker price.
- Average new car price: $6,848
- Specific model examples:
- Chevy Chevette: Around $3,914
- Plymouth Horizon: Around $4,122
- Ford Mustang: Around $4,071
- Datsun 280ZX: Around $10,654
- Factors that increased price: Adding options like air conditioning, electric windows, or upgraded stereos could add a significant amount to the base price.
What was the 1979 Corolla known for?
The 1979 Corolla, now in its 4th generation, were powered by a spirited 1.6 liter overhead cam 4 cylinder engine that combined with the vehicles small size and light weight delivered fuel economy and reliability to the American public.
How much did a Toyota Corolla cost in 1981?
Price
| Style | Invoice | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 2dr Coupe | $0 | $5,368 |
| Deluxe 2dr Coupe | $0 | $5,878 |
| Deluxe 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $6,188 |
| Deluxe 4dr Sedan | $0 | $5,998 |
