9th Oct 2012, 10:58

I am probably your Dad's age. In the 70s the Toyotas were extremely popular. The Celica had outstanding styling and were everywhere. So were Corollas. The Celica was a bit pricey, but was a real eye catcher. Another very attractive popular car was the Datsun Z cars. They were prone to rust and I had one. They were also a bit pricey as well. I am referring to the time and cars we bought new. Gas was a factor, especially in 73-74, long lines and odd even day allotments across the country.

In my opinion the styling was totally lost by 1980. I bought a new black 5 speed Toyota Corolla SR5, which my wife drove. It had some styling in the hatchback model. The hatch leaked and we broke one of the 2 sunroofs with a loose latch. Other than the Supra, styling was lousy after.

You may be expressing your theory, but I lived and bought new ones in the period. Maybe the poor quality of steel and rust paid a toll. I remember our model selections as equipped were not cheap; even the loaded Corolla SR5 Hatchback from the period.

My father had company cars in the 60s and 70s. Most were Impalas. They were a good value and a typical factory reps car. Big trunk and the 350 V8 automatic 4 doors. I don't remember hearing any issues as he drove them daily. They were company vehicle, meaning no charge to use, so if they were an issue, we would have heard it.

I followed his footsteps and drive company vehicles as well. I have no prejudice, as if it stinks I will share that info and have done. I had a new Acura Legend as a company car, and it was a fine car and was discontinued. Followed by the RL. All my others have been domestics, and all good. One of the guys had a Dynasty by Chrysler, and it was the only one I heard of with any major issues.