Got A '97 Corolla for $150 Need Some Tips From The Pro's

[Coolrolla24]

Hey there everyone! I'm completely new to the corolla world! I just got myself a 1997 corolla for a hundred and fifty buckaroos! It's in pretty good condition runs well just has a blown clutch so im going to be getting that repaired by my mechanic as to D.I.Y. is a lot of work since you half to remove a lot of stuff to be able to access the clutch and i just don't got the room or time at the moment to do that but I am here to ask if there are anythings I should know about these cars and if there are any little tricks I can do to boost up the hp as there only like around 100hp stock??? Haven't driven it yet as its going to the garage tomorrow. Also would like to know what are some good sites for part and what are some easy way to get some more power. Also how has everyone liked there corolla so far?!
ANY INPUT AT ALL WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED

 

[Scott O'Kashan]

Welcome to the Corolla Forum! :thumbup::thumbup1::clap:arty::balloon:

Keep in mind, a Corolla is an economy car and neck-snapping, tire smoking performance is not what they were designed to do. Any power increases available will be very modest, unless you dump thousands of dollars into a turbocharger installation.

$150, as long as the engine is sound, is a great deal! Congratulations! How'd you get it for such a low price? How many miles are on it? Is it equipped with the 1.6 liter or 1.8 liter engine?

 

[Coolrolla24]

Thanks for the reply Scott!!! And thank you !
I'm not looking for anything crazy just something to make it a bit quicker!
The miles are high unfortunately and that hences the reason why I got it for $150
it's up around 260,000km , don't know about miles as I am in Canada! It's also equipped with the 1.8l as it is the dx I believe. It fires right up with no hassell and sounds pretty good while running just am I am not able to take it anywhere yet since it doesn't have a clutch. When I get the clutch put it I will be also getting an alignment and my tires balanced. any other things I should get done while it's there? any crucial parts that are notorious for going on these cars? Thanks for the quick and honest reply Scott!

 

[Scott O'Kashan]

First I recommend getting the car roadworthy and driving it to see if you really need more power. The Corolla is not a dog. Also, some power modifications can reduce fuel economy and in this day and age of very high fuel prices, that can suck money out of your wallet at an increased rate. Not good. Also, with high mileage, pushing the car hard could lead to an engine or transmission failure which is big bucks to replace.

There is a website you can use to check on typical complaints of cars. Here is the link - http://CarComplaints.com

Why have an alignment done? Are the tires wearing unevenly? Be advised that front wheel drive cars need four wheel alignments. What shape are the struts and shocks in, i.e. are they leaking fluid? Did you do a bounce test yet?

There are many topics and videos on Corolla maintenance, repair, etc., etc., in this forum. So feel free to browse and learn from the substantial amount of information that is here. :thumbup1:

Do you know the history of the car, i.e. how long was it sitting before you bought it? I imagine with that high mileage, the engine must have some oil leaks?

 

[fishycomics]

It is a manual . that says it all has more power than an Auto. It is lighter to by a few hundred pounds. You want more horses, changing parts like a cam shaft. computer chip, etc....

I am sure you got a great deal but before you leap take some steps. safety is key. get her running, get al lthe major work done first be fore investing big bucks.

dress her up, show her will win over speed any time. I know what you mean by SLOW, but once she is up, she will look and ride like all the cars out here.

I own a 91 and the key is let everyone go, I got 40 plus mpg and still kicking!

 

[Scott O'Kashan]

CoolRolla24 - We haven't heard back from you in over a month. How's your Corolla coming along?

 

[Scott O'Kashan]

??

 

[slo.k.rolla]

150 bucks is a great deal!! even if it does come with a smoked clutch. my 95 rolla with the 4afe has an intake, milled head, and full exhaust and i'm pretty sure makes no more power now than ever did..... so unless you wanna put the boost to it don't worry too much in the way of performance. Enjoy your new ride