Corolla Generasi Ke-6

The 6th Generation COROLLA

A COROLLA beyond COROLLAs

"Higher levels demanded in an era of abundant prosperity."


Akihiko Saito,
Development Leader of the 6th Generation COROLLA


Production Period
1987 - 1991
*Production period in Japan. The period of introduction for this generation model may vary by region.





In May 1987, the COROLLA evolved into its 6th generation model. The catchphrase used in advertisements at that time was "A new tale in Japanese vehicles has begun. The birth of the all new COROLLA, a new grade Toyota sedan." As evident from this phrase, all areas of the new COROLLA were completely renovated to go beyond the norms of its class as the COROLLA entered the market armed with a sense of luxury and an even higher level of quality. Because of the rich economy in Japan, the customer needs were greatly changing from "satisfaction of ownership" to "what kind of life can be enjoyed with the use of possessions" and "how can items be put to use for personal lifestyle". In developing the 6th generation COROLLA, the development team recognized that the era had changed from focus on items to focus on things of the heart, and that customers sought self fulfillment in their cars as well. To comply with these types of needs, the design team embarked on developments with the idea of providing a vehicle that not merely functioned as a tool or means of transportation but that also provided passengers with "quality time and travel space". As a result, the team successfully achieved interior and exterior designs replete with a sense of luxury that challenged even higher grade vehicles as well as a high output engine with good fuel economy. The team also searched the range of sensitivity in areas of texture and tone in their pursuit for high levels of quality.

This 6th generation COROLLA was well received by many both in Japan and in overseas markets, and its popularity did not fade. In fact, in March 1989, three years after its release, the 6th generation COROLLA set a new record for monthly domestic sales in Japan of 44,000 units. In addition, the wagon and 4WD models gathered much attention, which has led to the current RV (Recreational Vehicle) boom in Japan, and achieved the highest monthly worldwide sales of 100,000 units.

The market in Japan at the time of the 6th generation COROLLA development was undergoing a change in its sense of values, shifting from an "era of enhancing items" to an "era of satisfying the heart and mind". With this occurring, the new model had to respond to the change by realizing a high level of quality that greatly exceeded the level sought by vehicles in this class. To achieve this, the development team targeted vehicle development based on a new sense of value that exceeded the boundaries of conventional family cars and compact cars. The team strived to develop a "car that would create new standards for the upcoming decade, the 1990s, as well as a global vehicle that exceeded its class."

Akihiko Saito, the Development leader, stated, "I believe that the COROLLA must erase the image of family cars of the past. Wouldn't it be nice if the quietness and riding comfort of the CROWN* and the attractive appearance of the MARK II (CRESSIDA) were achieved in a vehicle the size of the COROLLA?" To achieve this concept and development goal, Saito instructed the staff to create a car that provided "high quality time". The main point for materializing this concept was satisfying the customers by appealing to the five senses. For example, the importance of appearance ― a customer will not consider his or her time spent in the car as spending quality time, if the car he or she is driving appears shabby.

To materialize this "global vehicle that exceeded its class" and "quality time", the team focused on the following.
1. Provide a lineup of characteristic body styles to best fit the broad lifestyles of the customers.
2. Achieve a "Fun to Drive" vehicle through outstanding vehicle performance.
3. Realize high level aesthetic quality for the senses.
Rather than executing merely a model change, the team focused on these three points and embarked on developments with a spirit of introducing an entirely new vehicle for the market to judge.

A major feature of the 6th generation COROLLA was its engine, which adopted a newly developed double-overhead cam 4-valve mechanism called the "High-Mecha Twin Cam." At that time, while double-overhead cam 4-valve mechanisms enabled high speeds and high output, they were also expensive, and primarily mounted in sports cars and sporty models. Use in everyday family cars was not considered. However, the manager of the Engine Development Department declared, "When we pursued the ideal engine with both high performance and good fuel economy, we inevitably turned to this type of engine." With that, the team embarked on the development of a new double-overhead cam 4-valve mechanism for use in a family car ― with superior fundamental performance of output and fuel economy, whilst accomplishing excellent mass productivity and low production costs. However, there were many issues that had to be resolved in developments. For example, to determine the optimum cam drive method to open and close the valves, durability tests, lasting several hundred hours at 6000rpm, were repeated over and over using several types of prototype engines. As a result, an engine with high performance and fuel efficiency in the practical application range was completed with characteristics that appeal to the senses with comforting tones.

In the development of the 6th generation COROLLA, a project team was organized to increase overall quality. The team made over 2,000 proposals and cooperated with over 100 part manufacturers to improve quality in even areas that the customer would never see. Also, by ensuring high sensory qualities for higher levels of satisfaction, the development staff was confident that it had created a new standard for the appearance and finish of Toyota manufactured vehicles. With this level of quality, far beyond the boundaries of conventional family cars, the 6th generation COROLLA was well received by many and became a major hit model.
*CROWN: Introduced in 1955 and is now in its 12th generation as a large luxury passenger vehicle representative of Toyota.

At the time of its initial release, the 6th generation COROLLA was available in four body types including a 4-door sedan, a 2-door coupe, a 3-door hatchback, and a 5-door hatchback. In August 1987, the van and wagon models, which had been carried over from the 4th generation model without any model changes, underwent a conversion to FF drivetrain and joined the 6th generation lineup. When the model change was made for the 6th generation, the 3-door coupe and 5-door models were discontinued in Japan, but a 5-door liftback model was established for Europe.

Seven types of engines were available at the time of the initial release. This included the 1.3-liter OHC 2E engine, the newly developed High-mecha twin cam 1.5-liter 5A-F and 5A-FE engines, the 1.6-liter Sports twin cam 4A-GE and Supercharged 4A-GZE engines, and the 1.8-liter OHC 1C-II diesel engine. A 1.5-liter OHC 3E engine was also available exclusively for the van model.

In September 1987, the 1.6-liter High-mecha twin cam 4A-F engine was established exclusively for the 4WD model.

In May 1989, in the second half of the model period, the 5A-F and 4A-F engines were replaced by the EFI controlled 5A-FE and 4A-FE engines. In addition, the 5A-FHE was established for some grades of the coupe and hatchback models by further tuning the 5A-FE engine for improved output. Then in September of the same year, the 2.0-liter OHC 2C-III diesel engine was added to the lineup for 4WD models.

For the drivetrain, the front wheel drive was adopted from the time of the initial release for the sedan, coupe, and hatchback. In August, three months later, the van and wagon were converted to the FF drivetrain, and the conversion of all COROLLAs to FF, started on the 5th generation, was completed. Later, COROLLA's first full-time 4WD, based on the FF drivetrain, was established to further support the diversification of customer needs.

A wide & low theme was adopted for all body types, and a luxurious design was given to the 6th generation COROLLA. To achieve the exterior design, the COROLLA was designed like higher grade vehicles with well-proportioned style including a large, low form with a small cabin proportion and with rounded lines, which was the newest trend. Specifically, when seen from the side, the exterior design emphasized a carefree image with its straight horizontal lines that seemed to flow from the top of the fender to the rear trunk and with a cabin that appeared to be positioned on top. In addition, a visual effect was also incorporated by bringing the front pillar and rear pillar closer to the center pillar to achieve a well-proportioned style, and a delicately designed radiator grille was adopted to achieve a design that overflows with a sense of luxury.

As for the interior, the design team began by searching for which direction to take the design. To determine that direction, the designers, with the help of the sales staff, visited many customers at their homes to hear opinions. Also, to incorporate the trends of that time, the team began analyzing even songs that were popular at that time (in Japan) to determine what exactly it was that would be accepted by the people. From the analysis of popular songs and such and from listening to customers first hand, the team was guided in a design direction that led to luxury and freshness. Specifically, the seats adopted a velour knit fabric and a large, thick design to portray an image of luxuriousness. For the interior color, maroon (wine color), that had gained an excellent reputation in use in higher grade vehicles, was adopted. On the other hand, one area of focus to achieve the image of newness was the interior space, which was created by pursuing ergonomics. The shape of the meters, and the layout and grouping of the controls were designed by carefully examining visibility and operability.

Of the seven types of engines available at the initial release, the 1.5-liter DOHC 16-valve 5A-F and 5A-FE engines were newly developed to achieve high output, good fuel economy, high response, and ample torque characteristics in the practical application range. In addition, the engine sound was carefully tuned to achieve ear-pleasing tones. The characteristic feature of this engine was the High-mecha twin cam mechanism created from the concept of "make the ultimate twin cam mechanism a common device." While the conventional DOHC uses a timing belt to drive both camshafts, the lightweight and compact High-mecha twin cam drives one camshaft with a timing belt and the other camshaft with a scissors gear for high intake and exhaust efficiency. As a result, the 5A-F engine achieved a maximum output of 85ps / 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 12.5kg-m / 3600rpm, and the 5A-FE engine equipped with an EFI achieved a maximum output of 94ps / 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 13.1kg-m / 4400rpm. The level of confidence that the team had in these engines was apparent from advertisements in Japan that introduced the engines as "Engines that go beyond the boundaries of their class."

The sporty, 1.6-liter DOHC 4A-series engines included the 4A-GE engine that was refined based on the 5th generation 4A-GELU engine for increased power, and the 4A-GZE that was equipped with a supercharger. The 4A-GZE supercharger differed from conventional turbochargers because it gained its power from the crankshaft, so it had the merit of superior response. In addition, high power and high response in all speed ranges were achieved through various refinements. These included adopting an intercooler and forged pistons, as well as reinforcing the internal structure and components. The 4A-GE engine achieved a maximum output of 120ps / 6600rpm and a maximum torque of 14.5kg-m / 5200rpm, while the 4A-GZE engine provided a maximum output of 145ps / 6400rpm and a maximum torque of 19.0kg-m / 4400rpm.

On the other hand, changes were made to the ignition timing, engine mount, and fuel evaporative emission control system for the 1.3-liter OHC 12-valve 2E engine, which featured superior response and good fuel economy, to achieve a maximum output of 73ps / 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 10.3kg-m / 4000rpm. The 1.8-liter OHC 1C-II diesel engine with high economic efficiency and quietness was also continued from the 5th generation, but the injection nozzle was changed and the injection timing was optimized to comply with Japan's exhaust gas regulations, which were becoming increasingly stricter year by year. The maximum output of this engine was 64ps / 4700rpm and the maximum torque was 12.0kg-m / 2600rpm. Also, the newly developed, compact, lightweight 1.5-liter OHC 3E engine was adopted in the van model. This engine generated a maximum output of 79ps / 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 12.0kg-m / 4000rpm and focused on usability in the practical application range.

In September 1987, the 4A-F engine equipped with the High-mecha twin cam was adopted exclusively for 4WD models. This engine was developed based on the 5th generation 4A-ELU engine.

Then in May 1989, minor changes were made and the 5A-F and 4A-F engines were changed to the 5A-FE and 4A-FE engines with EFI control. In addition, efforts were made to improve the output of some grades of the coupe and hatchback models, and the 5A-FHE engine, which generates a maximum output of 105ps, was adopted. At that time, the 4A-GE, 4A-GZE, and 1C-II engines were also overhauled to improve output. Then in September of that year, the 2000cc 2C-III diesel engine was added to the lineup of the 4WD model to meet the needs for a diesel engine with high level startup characteristics in cold regions.

A strut type suspension similar to that of the 5th generation COROLLA was given to all four wheels. However, by updating the suspension geometry, shock absorber damping force, and component parts, etc., even more superior handling stability and riding comfort were achieved. Also, the TEMS (Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension), an electronically controlled variable damping force damper, was made available in some of the higher grade models. This system allowed the driver to select the preferred damping force. The system featured an "AUTO Mode" in which the computer adjusted the damping force to either "SOFT" or "HARD" based on the driving conditions, and a "SPORT Mode" for a "HARD" damping force suited for sporty drives.

For the drivetrain, conversion to an FF design progressed from the 5th generation model, and in August 1987, the van and wagon underwent a full model change to a 6th generation and were converted to FF designs. With this, the entire COROLLA series featured an FF design. Then in October of that year, a 4WD model was added that exhibited superior driving performance in various road conditions to meet the needs of various customers. The 4WD system differed with each engine and transmission specifications. In manual transmission models with gasoline engines, full-time 4WD was adopted with a mechanical differential lock, while in automatic transmission models, electronically controlled hydraulic "High-matic" full-time 4WD was established. High-matic full time 4WD detected the throttle opening, vehicle speed, and such and used hydraulic pressure to control the center differential, thus making it easier to take off on slippery roads. This system also did not require any driver control, enabled an easy drive, and made the 4WD models more accessible. A full-time 4WD system with viscous coupling center differential was made available for the manual transmission model equipped with a diesel engine in the latter half of the model period.

In addition to equipping the 6th generation COROLLA with features that ensured a comfortable interior environment, the design team pursued comfort that satisfied even the human senses of touch and sound. A good example is that of details in the area of touch. Areas from the meter cluster to the instrument panel and door trim were wrapped with softer materials to achieve a pleasant texture. Meticulous attention was given to even the feel of switches. In the area of sound, penetrating road noise and wind noise were reduced, and engine sound was carefully tuned to create a pleasant tone. In addition, computer analysis was used to achieve a body structure that generated minimum noise and vibration, and as a result, a superior level of quietness was achieved. On the other hand, in the area of air conditioning, efforts were made to improve dynamic pressure ventilation performance, which played essential roles in maintaining the cabin air fresh.

Efforts were also made to enhance comfort and convenience equipment. The seats were available with a seat lifter, lumbar support, side support, and full-flat reclining. Rear seat types were available according to the body type and grade, including a 60:40 split retractable rear seat and a one-piece fixed rear seat. In addition, a countless number of comfort and convenience equipment was available such as centralized power windows switches, an air conditioning system that enabled rapid heating and cooling, sun visors with vanity mirrors, a power moonroof, 7-step adjustable tilt steering, and a rear window defogger with heater wires.

Numerous easy-to-use storage spaces were also provided including large door pockets, a front console tray, an glove box under tray, a console box with a cassette box, and a front seatback pocket. The van model was designed with a lower floor when converted to an FF design, and a class top level cargo area was ensured.

To accommodate the enhanced engine performance and drive power, disc brakes were adopted for the front brakes of all models, ensuring optimum braking force. In addition, a brake booster, that enabled a large braking force to be generated with only a light pedal pressure, and X-type dual circuit to handle the rare event of brake abnormalities were adopted. For models with sporty engines, ventilated disc brakes with superior anti-fade performance were adopted to ensure high braking force.

In terms of body rigidity, high levels were achieved by optimizing the frame structure and profile shape of the components. In addition, adjustable seatbelt anchors were adopted to ensure a comfortable fit by passenger of any physique. Other Technologies and Equipment

● Advanced panoramic digital meters with superior visibility

● Power adjustable and retracting outer mirrors

● Glare proof inner mirror that prevents glare from the lights of trailing vehicles

● Push button heater control panel and push button hazard lamp switch with superior operability

● Trunk room lamp

● Cup holders

● Fabric toned trunk mat

● Electronically controlled carburetor with a fuel cut off function to contribute to fuel economy performance

● Turnover type clutch pedal with reduced operation force




Major Specifications
*The specifications listed here are for the displayed vehicle (shown in the photo on the left) at the Corolla 40 year anniversary event held in August 2006 in Tokyo, Japan.


Specifications of displayed vehicle : 6th generation
Model code : E-AE91-AEMEK(S)
Grade : 1500SE Limited sedan
Model year : 1990
Vehicle price (JPY) : 1,172,000
Vehicle weight (kg) : 960
Minimum turning radius (m) : 4.9
Overall length (mm) : 4235
Overall width (mm) : 1655
Overall height (mm) : 1365
Wheelbase (mm) : 2430
Min. ground clearance (mm) : 155

Interior dimensions:
length (mm) : 1785
width (mm) : 1360
height (mm) : 1150
Passengers : 5
Engine type : 5A-FE
No. of cyls & arrangement : Water cooled, inline 4-cylinder DOHC
Fuel : Gasoline
Engine displacement (cc) : 1498
Fuel consumption (km/L) : -
60 km/h constant speed driving : 27.5
10 mode fuel efficiency : 16.4
10.15 mode driving : -
Transmission type : 5-speed manual
Drive train : FF
Max. output : 94PS / 6000rpm (NET)



Vehicle Diagram and Dimensions


Secret of COROLLA

Quietness of a higher grade
For the 6th generation COROLLA, efforts were made to reduce sounds that are compounded and felt in the interior such as engine noise, road noise, and wind noise, and to convert those noises into pleasing sounds. At the time, this was an uncultivated field with only a few examples of research documents, so the development team used the "Comprehensive Vibration Noise Analysis System" that had been only recently introduced in 1983. This system was formed by combining a large computer with the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) device developed to analyze and identify submarine sounds (sound patterns). Using this system, the team could analyze and visualize eight types of sounds at the same time and could analyze the sound source in a short amount of time. Based on the analysis results, the team successfully reduced vibration from the engine, body, and such, changed the tone of noises, and created a comfortable interior environment.