What do You Think? Should I buy it?

[bigtrucknwheels]

Hi guys and gals, Im a regular in the truck forums and know a little bit about them, but i know nothing about Toyota cars (particularly motor types, trims, and options available that model year).

Now that i declared my idiocracy, here is the situation: I currently have the opportunity to buy a 1987 Toyota Corolla SR5. The car is in fair condition. I know that its rear wheel drive and that it is desirable because its the coupe with the Flip up head lights. The car runs a little rough, but it runs. It has 169k on it. The timing belt was just done at 168k. It needs brakes, some carb work, A/C service, and an alignment.

Here are my questions:

1. If i could get it for say, 200, give or take a bit, is it worth it?
2. What problems (major or minor) might i anticipate with this car?
3. Motor? Any details? did i read right that its a DOHC 1.6 I4 and carbourated? Reliability?
4. The motor leaks a little oil from the top end and burns a little. Rebuildability? Known Issues with this motor (head gasket, etc)?
5. What kind of gas milage would i expect? That would be the main reason i buy the car.

[Kr0n1k]

1. Yes
2. Rust
3. 4AF or 4AC someone will correct me
4. Very common motor so shouldn't be bad
5. Not sure, I had the 4AFE in my two Corollas and it was usually around 30mpg mixed driving, so probably compareable.

[bigtrucknwheels]

Originally Posted by Kr0n1k

1. Yes
2. Rust
3. 4AF or 4AC someone will correct me
4. Very common motor so shouldn't be bad
5. Not sure, I had the 4AFE in my two Corollas and it was usually around 30mpg mixed driving, so probably compareable.

Thanks for the response. I will know the final price tomorrow. I doubt i will get it tomorrow, but sometime in the near future if i get it.

I am interested in the motor though. I could read that it said "4A" on the valve cover, but that was the extent of it.

Anyone else like to chime in? Your thoughts would be appreciated...

[bigtrucknwheels]

yeah i got the price today... Needs a little work, but its mine for 250. when its set in stone and i get it cleaned up i will post some pics.