A LOT has happened in 40 years and Toyota has taken the opportunity of the launch of its latest model, the new Avensis, to cast an eye back to where its UK success story began, with a modest but ambitious saloon called the Corona.

A 1966-vintage Corona added to the Toyota press fleet provides a fascinating reference point for understanding just how far automotive engineering and design have progressed.

In the days when a gallon of four-star petrol cost about six shillings (30p) and global warming was as unheard of as feng shui and Channel 4, fuel economy and CO2 emissions were not prime concerns for motorists.

The Corona's 74bhp 1,490cc four-cylinder engine returned roughly 26.8mpg, while performance was competitive in its day with its market rivals, with 0-62mph acceleration in a shade more than 17 seconds and a top speed of 87mph.

By comparison, the new Avensis uses some of the most advanced diesel engines in the world. The Avensis 2.0 litre D-4D 130, which in terms of market position is roughly on a par with the 1960s Corona, returns more than 51mpg in combined cycle driving.

Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 10.6 seconds and it can reach 124mph with no danger of the occupants being shaken to pieces.

Speaking of safety, one of the Corona's selling points was the optional provision of seat belts, although those with money to spare in 1966 were more likely to splash out on carpets and a push-button radio.

In 1966 UK road deaths hit a post-war record of 7,985. In 2005, the total was well below half that figure.

The new Avensis demonstrates the advances in active and passive safety systems that make Toyotas among the safest cars.

The Toyota minimum intrusion cabin structure creates a robust passenger cell that absorbs and diverts impact forces.

Occupants are protected by pre-tensioned seat belts with load-limiters, front, side curtain and knee airbags, anti-submarining front seats, side impact bars and a steering column and pedals designed for less risk of injury in a collision.

Where the Corona offered simple drum brakes with no servo assistance, the Avensis has disc brakes all-round with anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.

Finding themselves in a skid, Corona drivers would have to rely on driver skill with the steering wheel and brakes, whereas the Avensis's vehicle stability control, ABS and traction control will automatically intervene to help keep the car under control.

The Corona carried a price tag of £1,000 when it was launched about £12,000 at today's prices the equivalent of about a year's wages for the average worker. By contrast, the new Avensis range starts at £15,515, about 31 weeks' average pay.

The new Avensis goes on sale in July, built exclusively in Britain, at Toyota's plant in Derbyshire.