Not your Typical Wagon: The 4WD Toyota Tercel

Millennials have the largest buying power of any age group in the world right now, and vehicles from the 1990s from which they grew up with are all the rage right now to scoop up and own as fully contributing members of society. One such vehicle is none other than the diamond in the rough, the second generation L20 Toyota Tercel 4WD Wagon.

The second generation of Toyota Tercel Wagons went into production in May of 1982. They were primarily available in 4WD configurations. Toyota fitted all North American Tercels with a 1.5L four-cylinder engine that produces a modest 63 hp and 4800 rpm. As with the previous generation, they mounted the Tercel’s driveline longitudinally, instead of using the transversally mounted configuration that was starting to become standard in import vehicles. The decision to mount the driveline longitudinally was due to the bulky 4WD system. These 4WD drivelines (chassis code AL25), were equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and the transfer case was synchronized, meaning a butter smooth shift from two- to four-wheel drive without coming to a stop.

Unusually, the sixth gear in the transmission is actually an “extra low” first gear, giving the transmission a 17.6:1 final drive ratio. We put this extra low gear in place to allow the engine to develop the torque needed to extract the vehicle from conditions that would normally require a low range transfer case. The manufacturer included an inclinometer mounted above the radio for measuring the tilt of the car with the 4WD systems.

Evolution of the Toyota Tercel

The plucky Tercel was a parts bin car, borrowing from existing pieces in Toyota’s growing 1980s lineup. Toyota used the engine, transaxle, and front-wheel-drive system from the previous generation Tercel, and they took the live rear axle from rear-wheel-driven Corollas. The engineers built the transfer case into the six-speed transmission housing, making it the only unique part of the Tercel. Normally the 4WD Toyota Tercels were front-wheel-drive cars. When the driver pulled back on the transfer case shifter to shift into 4WD, the system engaged the rear differential. It is worth noting that the transfer case in Tercels do not have a center differential, so like much of the part-time 4WD vehicles Americans are used to, it cannot be used on the street, unless there is a compromising surface on the pavement.

In 1985, the designers made minor changes to the styling of the vehicle, but by February 1988, people had decided the Toyota Tercel 4WD was no longer cool. The third generation was essentially more Corolla than anything else, and as Toyota’s cheapest model it competed directly with the Volkswagen Golf.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the performance and speed capability of the Tercel?

The second generation of Tercel Wagons went into production in May of 1982. They were primarily available in 4WD configurations. All North American Tercels were fitted with a 1.5L four-cylinder engine producing a modest 63 hp at 4800 rpm. Unusually, the sixth gear in the transmission is actually an ‘extra low’ first gear, giving the transmission a 17.6:1 final drive ratio. This extra low gear was put in place to allow the engine to develop the torque needed to extract the vehicle from conditions that would normally require a low range transfer case.

While the Tercel’s engine might not win any drag races, the vehicle’s performance has its unique facets. The Tercel’s top speed is capped at a rather unremarkable 85 mph, and it takes over twenty seconds to reach 65 mph in the quarter-mile. This slow acceleration is a hallmark of its design, ensuring that you’ll never rush past a gas station without a second thought.

However, this vehicle isn’t all about straight-line speed. The Tercel shines when it comes to handling. Turn the wheel, and the Tercel eagerly charges after corners with a surprising amount of vigor. There’s less understeer compared to even the sportiest models, making it a joy to maneuver through tight turns. If you’re willing to play with the throttle and steering, you can even coax the Tercel into a playful oversteer, offering a thrilling sideways view of the road.

In summary, the Tercel may not impress with sheer speed, but it more than makes up for it with its engaging handling and thoughtful design features.

How does the steering feel while driving the Tercel?

The steering of the Tercel can feel somewhat unresponsive, being described as slow, heavy, and lacking in tactile feedback.

How does the Tercel handle in terms of steering and cornering?

The Tercel demonstrates aggressive cornering ability and less understeer compared to other models, making it quite responsive when maneuvering through turns.

What is the general perception of the Tercel’s speed?

The Tercel is generally perceived as very slow, with performance likened to that of a turtle.

How long does it take for the Tercel to reach a certain speed?

It took more than twenty seconds for the Tercel to reach 65 mph over a quarter-mile distance.

How fast can the Tercel go?

The Tercel’s top speed during testing did not exceed 85 mph, indicating its limitations in achieving higher speeds.

Why is the Tercel expected to be popular despite its unconventional design?

Millennials have the largest buying power of any age group in the world right now, and vehicles from the 1990s from which they grew up with are all the rage right now to scoop up and own as fully contributing members of society.

One such vehicle is none other than the diamond in the rough, the second generation L20 Toyota Tercel Wagon.

By now, the word is out that Toyotas don’t break down every time it’s raining and you happen to be late for work. The Tercel, despite its unconventional design, wins hearts because it offers exactly what today’s cost-conscious and practical buyers are looking for.

Why the Tercel is Winning Over Buyers:

• Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for reliability means fewer headaches and repair bills down the road.
• Affordability: In a world where recession buyers are checking window stickers first, the Tercel’s low price point is a major draw. The big five (or even a four, or three) next to the dollar sign has them reaching for their checkbooks.
• Fuel Efficiency: Boasting a 29–33-mpg EPA rating, the Tercel’s fuel efficiency is hard to ignore, making it an economical choice for daily commutes.
• Practicality: It does exactly what the world’s best-seller Corolla did—keeping the basic in basic transportation. This makes it a dependable choice for those who need a no-frills, get-the-job-done vehicle.

The Tercel’s quirky design might not turn heads at first glance, but its blend of reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency makes it a sensible choice for millennials who value substance over style.

What technical features are included in the Toyota Tercel 4WD?

The second generation of Toyota Tercel Wagons went into production in May of 1982. They were primarily available in 4WD configurations. All North American Tercels were fitted with a 1.5L four-cylinder engine producing a modest 63 hp and 4800 rpm. As with the previous generation, the Tercel’s driveline was mounted longitudinally, instead of the transversally mounted configuration that was starting to become standard in import vehicles. The decision to mount the driveline longitudinally was due to the bulky 4WD system. These 4WD drivelines (chassis code AL25), were equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and the transfer case was synchronized, meaning a butter smooth shift from two- to four-wheel drive without coming to a stop.

Unusually, the sixth gear in the transmission is actually an “extra low” first gear, giving the transmission a 17.6:1 final drive ratio. This extra low gear was put in place to allow the engine to develop the torque needed to extract the vehicle from conditions that would normally require a low range transfer case. Also included with 4WD systems was an inclinometer mounted above the radio for measuring the tilt of the car.

Toyota Tercel Evolution

The plucky Tercel was a parts bin car, borrowing from existing pieces in Toyota’s growing 1980s lineup. The engine, transaxle and front-wheel-drive system were from the previous generation Tercel, while the live rear axle was taken from rear-wheel-driven Corollas. The only part that was unique to the Tercel was the transfer case that was built into the six-speed transmission housing. Normally the 4WD Tercels were front-wheel-drive cars. When the driver would pull back on the transfer case shifter to shift into 4WD, the rear differential would be engaged. It is worth noting that the transfer case in Tercels do not have a center differential, so like much of the part-time 4WD vehicles Americans are used to, it cannot be used on the street, unless there is a compromising surface on the pavement.

Aside from its impressive 4WD system, the Tercel also stood out as an economical and practical choice. It was one of the cheapest new cars available in America at the time, priced at $3698. This affordability did not come at the expense of fuel efficiency. The Tercel was a fuel-economy star, achieving 29 to 33 miles per gallon depending on the transmission, according to EPA tests.

In terms of technical sophistication, plenty was built into the Tercel. It featured a new overhead-cam engine, front-wheel drive, and an all-independent suspension system, which contributed to a smooth and responsive driving experience. Despite being the smallest Toyota on the outside, the Tercel offered a surprisingly spacious interior, out-sizing even larger models in several key dimensions.

Overall, the Tercel combined practical features, advanced technology, and economical benefits, making it a standout in its class during the early 1980s.

How did Toyota Tercel 4WD Wagon owners generally feel about their cars?

Owners of the Tercel 4WD Wagon were generally very fond of their vehicles. They often expressed a deep appreciation for these cars, going to great lengths to maintain them and ensure their longevity. While front-wheel-drive versions of the wagon were available in North America, they didn’t inspire the same level of affection and have largely vanished from the roads. In contrast, the 4WD version remained cherished by its owners.

Why did Toyota decide to sell the Tercel 4WD Wagon in the United States?

Toyota’s decision to introduce the Tercel 4WD Wagon to the U.S. market was driven by a keen understanding of American consumers’ needs, especially in regions with harsh winter conditions. Many Americans sought vehicles that offered increased traction and stability on snowy roads. The Tercel, with its four-wheel-drive capability, met this demand by combining practicality with enhanced safety features.

Moreover, this vehicle wasn’t a rugged off-road type meant for military use; instead, it offered a balance of everyday utility and comfort. Its innovative tall wagon design appealed to drivers looking for a versatile and reliable car that could handle both urban commutes and tougher terrains. Thus, introducing the 4WD Wagon was a strategic move to cater to a growing segment of American drivers prioritizing versatility and performance.

How did the 4WD system in the Tercel differ from all-wheel-drive systems?

Their article provides a direct comparison between the 4WD system in the Tercel and all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, focusing on key differences and broader market context. Here’s how it more thoroughly answers the question:

1. Comparison to AWD Systems: Their article explicitly highlights that the Tercel’s 4WD system was similar to the “truck-style system” used in Subarus of that era. It notes that this system required careful handling on dry pavement to avoid damage, contrasting it with AWD systems that became more standard later in the decade. This provides a clear point of comparison, emphasizing the operational nuances of the Tercel’s 4WD system.
2. Market Context and Evolution: It mentions that most U.S. Car manufacturers transitioned to AWD systems later, providing context for why the Tercel’s 4WD system was different. It implies that AWD systems were designed to be more user-friendly and adaptable to different driving conditions, unlike the more complex and potentially damaging 4WD system in the Tercel.
3. Specifics of Availability: By noting that Toyota’s All-Trac AWD system was not available on the Tercel but was offered on other models like the Celica, Camry, and Corolla starting in 1988, it clarifies that the Tercelretained its distinct 4WD system while other models moved to AWD, underlining the difference.

In contrast, Your article focuses more on the technical aspects and unique features of the Tercel’s 4WD system, such as its longitudinal driveline and specialized transmission, without explicitly comparing it to AWD systems or discussing how it differed in practical terms.

What were the specifications and performance of the Tercel’s engine?

Their article provides a more comprehensive answer to the question regarding the Tercel’s engine specifications and performance by including specific performance metrics and personal insights. Here’s how:

1. Performance Metrics: Their article mentions both the horsepower (62 hp) and torque (76 pound-feet) of the engine, offering a clear picture of the engine’s output.
2. Personal Experience: By stating that the cars are “slow” and comparing them to even more underpowered vehicles, the writer adds a personal perspective on the engine’s performance, providing readers with a relatable understanding.
3. Weight Consideration: The article also notes the curb weight of 2,280 pounds, emphasizing how the vehicle’s light weight contributes to its overall performance, despite the low power output.

In contrast, Your article focuses more on the engine’s design features (such as the unusual sixth gear and its implications) rather than providing a detailed assessment of its performance or specifications. While it does mention the horsepower, it lacks additional context about torque, weight, and personal driving experience that their article offers.