Toyota Corolla I (E10) gallery (1966–1970)

The first generation Toyota Corolla (E10) was introduced in 1966 and established the foundation for the global success of the Japanese compact car.

All photos 341 I (E10) 0 1966–1970 II (E20) 0 1970–1974 III (E30) 0 1974–1979 IV (E70) 0 1979–1983 V (E80) 0 1983–1987 VI (E90) 0 1987–1991 VII (E100) 0 1991–1995 VIII (E110) 0 1995–2000 IX (E120) 15 2000–2007 X (E140) 48 2006–2013 XI (E160) 78 2012–2019 XII (E210) 181 2018

The first generation Toyota Corolla with body code E10 debuted in Japan in November 1966. Designed as an affordable and reliable family car for the mass market, the E10 featured a simple yet robust engineering approach with MacPherson strut front suspension, a rear live axle on leaf springs, and a rear-wheel-drive layout. The vehicle was offered in several body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, a three-door station wagon, and a two-door coupe named the Corolla Sprinter. The compact model gained quick traction among buyers due to build quality, low operating costs, and practical interior space. Engineers paid meticulous attention to structural body rigidity, minimizing noise, vibration, and harshness levels while enhancing cabin material quality.

Under the hood, initial E10 models featured a 1.1-liter K-series four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 60 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. In 1969, Toyota updated the lineup with a larger 1.2-liter 3K engine developing 68 horsepower and introduced an optional two-speed Toyoglide automatic transmission. Produced from 1966 until 1970, the E10 generation successfully expanded into export markets across North America and Europe, marking Toyota's first major step toward becoming a dominant global automaker. High levels of active and passive safety were corroborated by outstanding crash test results and comprehensive driver assistance technologies.