Back in the day, Toyota seemed to have the ‘Midas Touch’ when it came to creating truly special cars. While they might have appeared to experience a lull in the past decade, the future looks very bright for Toyota enthusiasts – especially with a new Supra on the horizon. One such car that has reached immortality status is the iconic Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16.
While the GLi originally launched with the 4A-GE TVIS (Toyota Variable Induction System) motor, Toyota South Africa dropped it in 1990 because of the immense cost. They did revise the motor however, which resulted in a power and torque increase from 89kw to 96kw, and 141nm to 145nm respectively.
The main factor behind the increase was a lift in compression ratio from 9.4 to 10.3:1, which in turn called for some other tweaks. Chief among them was the addition of a knock sensor to the existing EFI setup and a revised cylinder head, as well as the inlet and exhaust manifolds. The lack of TVIS did affect driveability though.
There was slightly slower engine response and a little less urge from low engine speeds. But once it got going, the 4A-GE revved smooth all the way to its 7,600rpm redline. And despite producing its maximum torque at a peaky 6,000rpm, the 4A-GE demonstrated tremendous range across its rev band.
The 1,058kg Twincam 16 was nippy too. 0-100kph took 9.44 seconds, while it needed 31.38 seconds to complete the standing kilometre at which it was travelling at 164.3kph. It eventually maxed out at 197kph, even though the speedometer was over reading at a ridiculous 218kph. Toyota bored-out the motor back then, creating a torquey 1.7-litre version for rally purposes. That said, the 4A-GE motor went on to become a household name in modification circles and is still used in a number of the countries quickest drag cars.
The Corolla GLi was available in two guises, Twincam 16 and Twincam 16 Exec. The regular model featured decent specification, but the Exec model added leather upholstery, air-conditioning, power steering and electric windows. The difference is specification was clearly evident as represented by the stark variance in pricing in 1991, with the Twincam 16 priced at R55 970 and the Twincam 16 Exec coming in at R66 440.
Interior specification aside, both however sported the same exterior featuring an integrated front bumper with a front skirt, body striping, body protector strips, moulded mudflaps, and boot spoiler and attractive 14-inch alloy wheels. Handling was decent too, thanks to front and rear independent suspension. Many might have forgotten, but the sixth-generation Corolla GLi won the 1989 SA Car of the Year award.
It’s hard to believe that the Twincam 16 is 29 years old, yet even today, in a world of high-tech turbocharged hatchbacks, it might not be able to keep up in any form of race, but a clean example will still turn heads. After all, only those who don’t understand what heritage is, wouldn't respect one of the most legendary Toyota's ever made.
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16 cost in South Africa?
You can expect to pay between R45,000 and R85,000 for a decent Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16 in South Africa, depending on condition, mileage, and modification status. Clean, unmolested examples with the original 4A-GE engine command premium prices, while project cars needing work start around R35,000.
Q: Is the Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16 worth buying?
The Corolla GLi Twincam 16 is absolutely worth buying if you're after an iconic, lightweight sports car that's relatively affordable to maintain and modify. The 4A-GE engine is bulletproof when maintained, parts are still available, and the car's 1,058kg weight makes it a proper driver's machine that's become increasingly collectible.
Q: How fast is the Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16?
The Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16 hits 100kph in 9.44 seconds and reaches a top speed of 197kph, making it genuinely quick for its era. The 4A-GE engine produces 96kW and 145Nm, with its sweet spot from 6,000rpm all the way to the 7,600rpm redline.
Q: What should I look for when buying a Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16?
Check for rust around the wheel arches and sills, ensure the 4A-GE engine hasn't been tampered with by amateur mechanics, and verify all electrics work properly. Original, unmodified examples are becoming rare, so inspect any modifications carefully and budget extra for potential restoration costs.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should absolutely buy a Toyota Corolla GLi Twincam 16 if you can find a good one. The best examples under R80,000 in South Africa represent some of the most rewarding classic Japanese sports cars available today. With its legendary 4A-GE engine, lightweight chassis, and growing collector status, the Twincam 16 offers genuine driving thrills that modern cars simply can't match. Just make sure you're buying from a reputable seller and budget an extra R20,000 for any restoration work, because these 30-year-old icons deserve to be kept in pristine condition.
