The Toyota Corolla has become pretty popular over the years. It’s like everywhere you go, you’re bound to see one parked or heading down the street with you. Since this vehicle managed to make a huge impact, let’s try and take a look at the vehicle that started it all: the first generation Toyota Corolla.

Christened the Corolla E10, this first generation came in three body styles: a 2-door coupe, a 4-door sedan, and a 4-door station wagon. It was first released in October 1966 and was produced until 1970. Upon its release, the Corolla E10 became the rival of the Datsun 1000.

Under the hood, Toyota equipped the Corolla E10 with a 1000 cc tax class engine but was later changed to a bigger 1077 cc engine. It underwent an upgrade in 1969 when it was given an 1166 cc engine. Other engine types that were used include a twin carburetor K-B 1077 cc engine and a 3K-B 1166 cc engine. Both were used for the SL versions of the Corolla E10.

Aside from its various engines, Toyota equipped the Corolla E10 with a unique 2-speed and 4-speed floor shift manual transmission. What made the use of this transmission unique was it was primarily used by trucks back then. Even though there was a worry about a decrease in torque, the transmission helped skyrocket the E10’s popularity among car owners.

Thanks to the popular run of theToyota Corolla E10, the Corolla line was able to enjoy continuous success. A success which still lasts even up until this day.