The 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual is a compact sedan that has gained popularity for its reliability, affordability, and practicality. As part of the tenth generation of the Corolla, this model is known for its straightforward design and efficient performance, making it a favorite among first-time car buyers and those seeking a dependable daily driver.

One of the standout features of the 2010 Corolla S Manual is its 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine, which delivers a balance of fuel efficiency and moderate power. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the car offers a sporty feel that appeals to drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. This combination makes it an excellent choice for commuters and city drivers who value both economy and responsiveness.
The Corolla S Manual also comes with standard features such as power windows, anti-lock brakes, and a sleek interior design, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride. Its reputation for durability and low maintenance costs further enhances its appeal, making it a smart choice for anyone looking for a long-term investment in transportation.

Engine Specifications
The 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual is equipped with a robust and efficient 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine. This powertrain is designed to deliver a balance of performance and fuel economy, making it ideal for both city driving and highway commutes. The engine features a Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) system, which optimizes power delivery and efficiency across the RPM range.

Key specifications of the engine include a displacement of 1.8 liters (110 cubic inches) and a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) configuration with 16 valves. This setup ensures smooth operation and consistent performance. The engine produces 132 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 RPM, providing ample power for accelerating and merging.
The 5-speed manual transmission complements the engine’s capabilities, offering precise control over gear shifts and enhancing the overall driving experience. With its compact design and lightweight construction, the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual remains a reliable and economical choice for drivers seeking a practical yet engaging vehicle.
2.1. Horsepower

The 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual is equipped with a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 132 horsepower at 6,000 RPM. This level of power is well-suited for the needs of most drivers, providing a balance of performance and efficiency. The horsepower is a key factor in the car’s ability to accelerate smoothly and maintain speed on both city roads and highways.
Here are some key details about the horsepower of the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual:
- Engine Capacity: The 1.8-liter engine is compact yet powerful, ensuring that the Corolla S Manual can handle various driving conditions with ease.
- Power Output: With 132 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, the engine provides sufficient power for merging onto highways, climbing hills, and overtaking other vehicles.
- Transmission: The 5-speed manual transmission allows drivers to maximize the use of available horsepower, providing a more engaging and responsive driving experience.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its capable power output, the Corolla S Manual achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.
The horsepower of the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual is also influenced by its advanced engine technology. The Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) system optimizes the engine’s performance by adjusting valve timing to deliver the right amount of power at the right time. This technology not only enhances horsepower but also improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.
In comparison to other vehicles in its class, the 2010 Corolla S Manual offers a competitive level of horsepower. For example, the Honda Civic LX with a 1.8-liter engine produced 140 horsepower, while the Ford Focus SE with a 2.0-liter engine delivered 140 horsepower as well. While the Corolla S Manual’s horsepower is slightly lower than these competitors, its superior fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs make it a more appealing option for many drivers.
The driving experience of the 2010 Corolla S Manual is further enhanced by its responsive acceleration and smooth power delivery. The engine’s horsepower is distributed evenly across the RPM range, making it easy to navigate through traffic and maintain steady speeds on long drives. Additionally, the manual transmission allows drivers to take full control of the engine’s power, providing a more connected and enjoyable driving experience.

2.2. Torque
Torque is a critical measure of an engine’s rotational force, determining its ability to deliver power under various driving conditions. For the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual, the engine produces 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM. This level of torque is well-suited for the needs of most drivers, providing a balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
Here are some key details about the torque of the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual:

- Torque Output: The 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine delivers 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM, ensuring smooth acceleration and reliable performance during everyday driving.
- Engine Technology: The Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) system contributes to the engine’s torque output by optimizing valve timing. This technology enhances low-end torque, making the car more responsive when accelerating from a standstill or when driving uphill.
- Transmission: The 5-speed manual transmission allows drivers to effectively utilize the available torque, providing better control over power delivery during acceleration and shifting.
- Practicality: While the Corolla S Manual is not designed for high-performance driving, its torque output is sufficient for hauling small loads, such as luggage or groceries, making it a practical choice for daily use.

The torque of the 2010 Toyota Corolla S Manual is well-matched to its horsepower, creating a balanced driving experience. While the engine may not deliver the same level of torque as some of its competitors, it compensates with excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. For example, the Honda Civic LX with a 1.8-liter engine produced 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 RPM, while the Ford Focus SE with a 2.0-liter engine delivered 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 RPM. The Corolla S Manual’s torque output is competitive, making it a strong contender in its class.

One of the standout features of the 2010 Corolla S Manual is its ability to deliver torque in a smooth and consistent manner. The engine’s torque curve is designed to provide ample power across a wide range of RPMs, ensuring that the car feels responsive and energetic during acceleration. This is particularly beneficial in city driving, where frequent stops and starts require quick bursts of power to navigate traffic effectively.
In addition to its urban capabilities, the Corolla S Manual’s torque output also makes it suitable for highway driving. While it may not have the same level of pulling power as larger vehicles, it can maintain steady speeds with ease, even when carrying passengers or light cargo. The combination of torque and horsepower ensures that the car can handle long-distance trips without feeling underpowered.
The manual transmission further enhances the driving experience by allowing drivers to take full advantage of the engine’s torque; By manually shifting gears, drivers can optimize power delivery, making the car feel more responsive and engaging. This level of control is particularly appealing to drivers who enjoy a more hands-on driving experience.
It’s also worth noting that the Corolla S Manual’s torque output is complemented by its lightweight design. Weighing in at approximately 2,600 pounds, the car’s power-to-weight ratio is well-balanced, allowing it to accelerate briskly without requiring excessive horsepower or torque. This balance is a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess, as it ensures that the car remains both efficient and fun to drive.
