1980 Toyota Corolla KE70 Restored In Its Former Glory – Owner Review

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Today we’re back with the owner’s review of a beautifully restored Toyota Corolla KE70. The KE70 is the 4th generation Corolla which debuted in March 1979. This particular car is a 1980 model; it comes with a 4K 1.3 liter 4 cylinder engine producing around 58hp and 97Nm of torque. It is configured with a 4-speed manual transmission. This KE70 is running on its own engine and is restored to its original specs, making this car so much more special than any modifications would have made it. So let’s learn more about this car from the owner, who has had it for over 15 years.

Project Initiation

The owner’s father bought this car 15 years ago. Two years back, they restored it and started to source its genuine parts. The owner imported many parts from Thailand and Dubai that needed replacement. They aimed to bring this car back in its original condition rather than modify it, so even things like the stereo system are original despite it being outdated.

Restoration

The restoration of this KE70 started mechanically; the owner sourced engine parts from Bangkok and Dubai and overhauled it. Then followed the suspension and electric components, after which the owner had a paint job done in its original colour but in metallic.

As per the owner, the interior was already in good shape, however, he installed 1982 Land Cruiser front seats with height adjustment and also a new carpet. On the exterior, the owner imported all four doors, bonnet, and trunk from Malaysia as they were rusted. Other trims and garnishes were good and only needed refurbishing, even the wheel caps, which are very hard to find, are original.

Fuel Average

Carburetor engines could be more efficient in fuel consumption than fuel injections, but as per the owner, this car’s fuel average is pretty decent. The owner installed a new carburetor and easily gets around 12 km/l within the city, and the average goes up to 14 km/l on highways.

Maintenance And Reliability

As per the owner, there are no mechanical or electrical malfunctions in the car, as he highly emphasised installing new parts. In his opinion, the way he has restored the car, it will not need any major work till 15 years. It is as reliable as modern cars, and every feature is functional.

Another factor for its reliability is that no alterations have been made mechanically or electrically, and everything functions as the company designed it. Regular maintenance is straightforward, with oil and filter replacement after a certain interval. Moreover, the owner drives this car occasionally with a lot of care to avoid excessive wear and tear.

Project Cost

The owner repurchased this car in 2004 for 2 lakh rupees. Upon completion of the restoration, the cost landed at about 7 lakh rupees as the owner imported parts from different countries and preferred new parts. The total cost of this car is still under a million rupees, which is okay for a car in this condition.

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