89 Toyota Tercel (5-speed manual) Gas Saver!! $1500

Listed 1 week
Photos 7
Location Torrance

Specifications

Year1989
Mileage200,002 mi
TransmissionManual
Fuel TypeGas
DrivetrainFWD
Body StyleCoupe
ConditionGood
Title StatusClean
Exterior ColorBlue
Engine4 cylinders

Owner's Pitch

"Reliable 1989 Toyota Tercel 'Gas Saver' with a 5-speed manual. Starts and drives remarkably well. While the exterior is aged, the engine and transmission are solid. Clean title with current tags. Perfect, low-cost daily commuter or student car for anyone prioritizing reliability over aesthetics."

Contact Seller

Description

Overview: This 1989 Toyota Tercel features a 5-speed manual transmission and is an excellent fuel saver. It starts up immediately and runs and drives very well for its age.

Condition: While the exterior is aesthetically weathered, it remains a reliable 'point A to point B' vehicle. The interior is sparse but complete, requiring only one window hand crank replacement.

Mechanicals: The engine and transmission are solid with no major issues reported. It is a utilitarian vehicle that would benefit from basic maintenance like spark plugs and an oil change.

History: Clean title with current tags ($137). Buyer is responsible for taxes and transfer fees.

Market Highlights

  • The Reliability Premium: In 2026, simple mechanical vehicles from the 1980s are seeing a resurgence. Buyers value the lack of complex electronics and the ease of DIY maintenance, making a running Toyota a high-demand asset.
  • The SoCal Beater Market: In Torrance and the greater Los Angeles area, there is a constant shortage of functional vehicles priced under $2,000. This Tercel fills a critical niche for affordable, rust-free transportation.
  • Manual Transmission Advantage: The 5-speed manual not only improves fuel economy but also avoids the reliability issues common in 35-year-old automatic transmissions, making this specific configuration more desirable to budget-conscious buyers.

AI Valuation

Good Deal
Fair Market Value $1,800
Retail$2,016
Trade-in$1,350
Confidence80%
Liquidity7/10