Toyota introduced the Corolla for the 1969 model year, as an alternative to gas-guzzling American cars. The 1997 Toyota Corolla came in three different trim levels: base, CE and DX. Toyota fitted the base and CE models with a 100-horsepower, 1.6-liter engine and the DX with a 105-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine. The engine size was not the only difference between the trim levels; the tire size varied as well.
The base and CE models used the same tire size. Toyota installed P175/65R14 S-rated tires for the 1997 Corolla base and XE.
The 1997 Toyota Corolla DX used a slightly wider rim; therefore it required a slightly wider tire. Toyota installed P185/65R14 S-rated tires on this trim level. This tire is 10 mm wider and has a sidewall that is 6.5 mm taller than the CE and base model tires.
Toyota developed the 1997 Corolla to use the tire sizes specified for the vehicle. Changing the tire size leads to an inaccurate speedometer, extended braking distances and possible transmission or axle damage.
