How much was a Toyota Corolla in 1986?
In 1986, a new Toyota Corolla in the United States typically started around $6,000 and could reach about $8,000 with higher trims and options.
Context and pricing landscape in 1986
During the mid-1980s, car prices in the United States were influenced by inflation, modest consumer demand, and competition among compact cars. The Corolla competed with similarly sized compact sedans and hatchbacks, with price differences reflecting trim levels, standard features, and regional dealer pricing. The figures below reflect sticker prices reported in U.S. dealer brochures and automotive press from that year, before any taxes, dealer fees, or incentives.
US pricing by trim
Below are the approximate starting prices by trim as reported for 1986 U.S. Corollas in contemporary brochures and press articles.
- Base Corolla: about $6,000–$6,500
- DX (mid-range): about $6,500–$7,000
- SR5 (sportier top trim): about $7,000–$8,000
Prices listed are manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) and do not include taxes, documentation fees, freight charges, or optional equipment. Actual transaction prices varied by dealer, location, and added options.
Inflation-adjusted view
To put these 1986 prices in today’s dollars, economists commonly adjust for inflation. Using typical CPI-based adjustments, the 1986 figures translate roughly as follows (approximate ranges):
- Base price: $6,000 in 1986 ≈ $16,000–$17,000 in present-day dollars
- Top trim price: $8,000 in 1986 ≈ $22,000–$23,000 in present-day dollars
These inflation-adjusted estimates illustrate how the purchasing power of car prices has evolved since 1986. Exact current equivalents depend on the specific inflation index and year used for conversion.
Global context and market variations
Prices outside the United States varied by country due to taxes, import duties, exchange rates, and equipment differences. Some markets published their own MSRP equivalents, while in others the final price depended on local specifications and dealer pricing. As a result, the absolute numbers for 1986 Corolla pricing can differ significantly by region, even when the car model is the same.
Summary
In short, the 1986 Toyota Corolla in the U.S. typically started in the low-to-mid $6,000s, with higher trims climbing toward $8,000. When adjusted for inflation, those prices align with roughly $16,000–$23,000 in today’s dollars, depending on trim and options. Prices in other countries varied widely due to local factor considerations. For precise archival figures, consult era brochures or automotive press from 1986 for the exact MSRP by trim and market.
How much did a Toyota Corolla cost in 1987?
Price
| Style | Invoice | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Deluxe 4dr Hatchback | $0 | $9,348 |
| Deluxe 4dr Sedan | $0 | $8,488 |
| FX 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $8,188 |
| FX-16 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $9,988 |
How much did a Toyota Corolla cost in 1986?
Price
| Style | Invoice | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| GT-S Sport 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $10,688 |
| LE 4dr Sedan | $0 | $8,278 |
| LE Limited 4dr Sedan | $0 | $10,128 |
| SR5 Sport 2dr Coupe | $0 | $9,418 |
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 1986?
In 1986, the average price for a new compact car was about $10,439, while the average price for all new cars was $12,651. The price of used cars was much lower, with the average cost around $5,431. The price of a car varied significantly depending on the make, model, and options, with some models starting in the low-thousands and luxury cars costing over $100,000.
- Average new car: The average price for a new car was approximately $12,651.
- Average compact car: The typical sticker price for a compact car was $10,439.
- Average used car: The average price for a used car was around $5,431.
- Price range: Prices varied widely. For example, a Chevrolet Chevette could be found for around $5,645, while a Rolls-Royce Corniche cost over $126,000.
