Toyota Corolla 1999 Problems

The timing belt is usually changed at 150,000 km on that model and most dealers are happy to do it on the basis of distance done rather than a time limit. Regular unleaded is being phased out in NSW only in 2011. Your car should be fine on E10, BP guarantees its E10 is suitable for all vehicles regardless of the age of the vehicle, the other oil companies don’t make that guarantee at the moment, but probably will. With that in mind use BP E10 if you have any doubts.

Your mechanic is correct, but so are you. The mechanic's suggestion of a Corolla is a safe bet, one that won't come back to bite him in the long run, but the other cars you mention are also worth considering. All are solid, generally reliable cars, although I would be cautious about recommending the Astra to you. Stick to the well-known Japanese brands and she won't go too far wrong.

It's still under warranty so you should persist with your dealer and have him demonstrate, perhaps by driving another car with the same drivetrain, that yours is normal. You could also have a trusted mechanic drive it for you and give you an opinion on it.

ALL cars, including Toyotas, have problems at times, even the best in the world. Toyotas are generally reliable and the problems they have don't seem to be major ones.