| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1988 |
| Production Years: | 1987 - 1992 discontinued in 1992 |
The Toyota Corolla Compact VI, known by its chassis code E90, is a pivotal generation of the Corolla lineup produced from 1987 to 1992, with the 1988 model year being a key representative. This generation marked a continued evolution of Toyota's reliable and practical compact hatchback segment, blending efficiency with a modest, functional design. The Corolla E90 hatchback was designed primarily as a compact vehicle, ideal for urban commuting and everyday use. Its dimensions provided a comfortable yet practical footprint: approximately 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) in length, 1,655 mm (65.2 inches) in width, and a height of around 1,355 mm (53.3 inches). This compact dimension ensured ease of maneuverability in tight city spaces while offering sufficient interior space for passengers and cargo. The hatchback body style enhanced versatility, allowing for flexible storage solutions and increased utility compared to traditional sedans. The Corolla E90's engineering focused on reliability and fuel economy, characteristic of Toyota's reputation during the late 1980s. This generation featured lightweight construction contributing to better fuel efficiency, smooth handling, and a comfortable ride height suitable for various driving conditions. The compact size also translated into competitive curb weight, generally ranging around 980 to 1,050 kg (2,160 to 2,315 lbs), which helped optimize performance and economy. Overall, the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback remains a notable model for enthusiasts and practical users alike, representing Toyota's dedication to creating durable, efficient, and compact vehicles that meet the demands of daily driving while maintaining a timeless appeal in automotive design. Its size and versatility continue to make it a relevant point of comparison for compact hatchbacks in both historical and modern day contexts.
Discover the standout features that make the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI a leader in its class
Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.
The Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) 1988 hatchback measures approximately 4,150 mm (163.4 inches) in length. This size positions it as a compact vehicle, making it suitable for urban environments and daily commuting. The length contributes to its maneuverability, which is one of the reasons for the Corolla's popularity during this generation. This length allows for decent interior space for passengers and cargo without making the car unwieldy on narrow streets or parking situations.
The width of the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback is around 1,655 mm (65.2 inches). This relatively compact width makes the vehicle easy to navigate through tight city streets and convenient to park in limited spaces. The moderately narrow width gives the Corolla an advantage in urban settings, where space can often be limited, without compromising interior comfort significantly. It also helps in reducing the overall weight and fuel consumption of the car.
The height of the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback is approximately 1,355 mm (53.3 inches). This relatively low height contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving stability and handling characteristics. It helps reduce body roll during cornering and provides a more engaging driving experience. Additionally, the lower height means the car has a sleeker profile, which can aid aerodynamics, although this model prioritizes practicality and economy over sporty dynamics.
The curb weight of the Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback typically ranges around 950 to 1,000 kg (approximately 2,094 to 2,205 lbs) depending on specific trim and equipment. This lightweight nature contributes to nimble handling and better fuel economy, which were essential selling points at the time. The relatively low weight allows the compact 4-cylinder engines to achieve respectable acceleration and responsiveness, making the car economical and practical for everyday use.
The Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback offers a practical interior with comfortable seating for up to five passengers, typical for compact cars of the era. Its hatchback design provides flexible cargo space, with rear seats that can often fold to increase loading capacity for larger items. While exact cargo measurements vary, the space is sufficient for daily needs, groceries, and small luggage, making it a versatile choice in its segment. The interior layout prioritizes functionality and ease of use over luxury.
Yes, the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback comfortably fits into a standard garage. Given that the car's length is about 4,150 mm (163.4 inches), width is 1,655 mm (65.2 inches), and height is 1,355 mm (53.3 inches), these dimensions are well within typical residential garage sizes, which often measure around 5,500 mm (216 inches) in length and 2,400 mm (94 inches) in width. This ease of fit enhances its appeal for urban drivers who park in standard garages or carports.
Compared to its predecessor, the Toyota Corolla E80 generation, the E90 (1987-1992) is generally slightly larger and more refined in its dimensions. The E90 hatchback expanded in length and width, offering improved interior space and comfort for passengers. Specifically, the E90's length of approximately 4,150 mm (163.4 inches) is a modest increase over the E80's length, and the width also grew slightly to provide a roomier cabin. These changes reflect Toyota's focus on evolving the Corolla with greater practicality and enhanced driving experience.
In terms of size, the 1988 Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback was competitive with other compact hatchbacks of the late 1980s, such as the Honda Civic, Ford Escort, and Volkswagen Golf. Its length of 4,150 mm (163.4 inches) and width of 1,655 mm (65.2 inches) positioned it squarely in the compact category. Compared to competitors, the Corolla offered a slightly more conservative and practical design with efficient use of interior space, good fuel economy, and reliable mechanical components that helped it maintain an edge in terms of ownership costs and long-term durability.
The Toyota Corolla E90 hatchback typically came with a range of four-cylinder engines, including the popular 1.3L and 1.6L variants depending on the market. These engines produced modest power outputs suitable for daily driving and fuel efficiency. Performance in the E90 was balanced and reliable rather than sporty, aligning with its reputation as a practical, economical car. The lightweight design and well-tuned suspension contributed to good handling for its class, making it a practical choice for commuters and small families.
The Toyota Corolla Compact VI (E90) hatchback remains popular in the used car market due to its reliability, affordability, and ease of maintenance. Its practical size and fuel-efficient engines make it appealing to those seeking a budget-friendly, dependable vehicle. Additionally, many enthusiasts appreciate its classic design and simplicity, which can make repairs and parts replacement easier and less costly than with modern vehicles. Its well-earned reputation for longevity, combined with a comfortable hatchback layout, ensures that it continues to attract buyers even decades after its initial release.
Toyota