The Toyota KE70: A Classic Icon in the World of Affordable RWD Fun

The Toyota KE70 is a car that holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate vintage Japanese cars. Produced between 1979 and 1985, the KE70, part of the fifth generation of the Toyota Corolla lineup, embodies the simplicity, reliability, and tunability that has made Toyota a household name in the automotive industry. Despite being an affordable, economy-oriented car in its time, the KE70 has earned a cult following, especially among drift and classic car enthusiasts.

A Brief History of the KE70

The KE70 belongs to the E70 series of the Toyota Corolla, which was produced from 1979 to 1987. This series marked the end of an era for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Corollas before the switch to front-wheel-drive layouts that became standard in later generations.

The KE70 was available in various body styles, including a 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, station wagon, and coupe. It was powered by a range of small, reliable engines, primarily the 1.3L 4K engine, which provided modest performance but excellent fuel economy. Toyota designed the KE70 as a practical, everyday vehicle, but over time, its light weight, RWD layout, and mechanical simplicity made it a favorite in the tuning community.

Why the KE70 is Special

While the KE70 was originally an economical family car, it has become highly sought after by car enthusiasts for several reasons:

Rear-Wheel Drive Layout: 

One of the most appealing aspects of the KE70 is its RWD configuration. Rear-wheel-drive cars offer a unique driving experience, especially for those who enjoy spirited driving. The balance and handling characteristics of a RWD car make it ideal for drifting and performance driving, which is why the KE70 is a popular choice in drift communities.

Affordability and Simplicity: 

The KE70 was built with a focus on simplicity and reliability. Its straightforward mechanical design makes it an excellent platform for DIY enthusiasts. Parts are relatively easy to find, and its simple engineering allows for easy modifications. Even today, KE70s are often more affordable than many other RWD classics, making them accessible to a wide range of car enthusiasts.

Tunability: 

The KE70 is a blank canvas for tuners. Its engine bay can accommodate a variety of engine swaps, with many opting for more powerful Toyota engines like the 4A-GE, 3T-GTE, or even the legendary 2JZ for extreme builds. Suspension upgrades, brake enhancements, and other performance modifications are also widely available, allowing owners to tailor their KE70s to their preferences, whether for drifting, racing, or street performance.

Classic JDM Styling: 

The KE70’s boxy, angular design is iconic of the late 1970s and early 1980s Japanese cars. Its retro aesthetic, combined with its potential for performance upgrades, makes it a head-turner at car shows and meets. Many owners preserve the vintage look while modernizing the car’s performance, creating a perfect blend of old-school charm and contemporary capability.

The KE70 in the Drift Scene

The KE70 has earned a strong reputation in the drift world, especially in regions where access to RWD cars like the Nissan Silvia or Toyota AE86 is limited. Due to its similar size and layout to the AE86, the KE70 can be set up for drifting with relative ease, often at a fraction of the cost.

Many drifters appreciate the KE70 for its lightweight chassis and easily modifiable suspension. With the right upgrades, it can become a nimble and capable drift car. The KE70’s adaptability in both grassroots and competitive drifting has kept its popularity alive, even decades after its production ended.

Restoring and Modifying a KE70

For those interested in restoring or modifying a KE70, the options are nearly endless. Enthusiasts often start by upgrading the suspension to improve handling and reduce body roll. Coilovers, upgraded sway bars, and poly bushings are common initial modifications.

Engine swaps are another popular route, with many opting for more powerful and modern engines to enhance performance. The 4A-GE, known from the AE86, is a popular choice due to its balance of power and ease of installation. For those seeking more power, turbocharging or swapping in larger displacement engines, such as the 1UZ-FE V8, can turn the KE70 into a true performance machine.

Cosmetic modifications often include aftermarket wheels, fender flares, and retro-inspired paint jobs that pay homage to the car’s era while giving it a modern twist.

Conclusion

The Toyota KE70 may have started life as a humble economy car, but over the years, it has transformed into a symbol of affordable fun and automotive creativity. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, simple mechanics, and classic styling have made it a favorite among drifters, tuners, and collectors alike.

Whether you’re looking to restore a piece of automotive history or build a performance machine, the KE70 offers a versatile platform that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world.