The 7A-GE Corolla

I have had this 1999 Corolla in my family since early 2009, it was JDM SE Limited spec with wooden trim, handrest options + a few extra bits here and there. I was still in school back then and initially it was driven by my father. Later, it was passed on to me in 2013 when i got my license.




Driven by the emotions evoked by racecars and dreams of owning a thrilling ride, I took this car as a canvas to customize it in my own way. Money was tight when I was not yet working and only in my first year of Uni; driving this Corolla was my only option. However, I was grateful and content with it.

I had a strong affection towards our Corolla; despite its age, it remained fresh and boasted a few good options inside and out. I trusted that my old Toyota wouldn’t let me down. So, what did I do? I stripped down my car with the intention to drop a 4age engine into this 20-year-old vehicle with over 200K miles. I opted for a 7a block to increase its displacement to 1.8 L for a bit more power. I gathered all the necessary parts, or at least what I thought I needed at that time.

It took me nearly 6 months to source, purchase, and install everything into the car before I could start driving it again. Another 6 months were spent perfecting everything. Working on Corollas and 4age engines can be straightforward, but only if you know what you’re doing. As it was my first project, it was a learning phase; I made mistakes, but it was all worth it. After a year of waiting, countless nights in various workshops, watching YouTube videos, and random runs to  parts shops, my 7age engine was ready in 2016. Maybe it wasn’t perfect, but it ran beautifully.

Specifications:

• Engine: 4age BlackTop Head with 7a block out of a Toyota 7afe engine, Ae111 stock 4age air filter box, 4age MT ECU
• NGK spark plugs, NRG spark plug wires, upgraded fuel pump
• 2.5-inch custom-made exhaust piping with midbox and Kakimoto Racing endbox
• C52 5-speed manual gearbox with aftermarket RDP racing clutch & pressure plate
• Front upper strut bar, H&R lowering springs, KYB Shocks
• 16-inch Evo Rega Master Wheels wrapped in Yokohama S drive 205/50 R16 tires
• Rear disk brake conversion with upgraded brake master cylinder, genuine Toyota Brake pads.
• Celica GT Steering wheel
• NRG oil temperature and oil pressure gauge with Works sandwich Kit