what is the difference?

Hey I was just curious what the difference is on a 2002 toyota corolla ce and a 2002 toyota corolla s? Looks like the same car

I can only speak first-hand for the 2003-2008 models, but the CE is the base model, and the S is the 'sport' model. That means a body kit in 2003+, but for 2002, it may only have been white-faced gauges and a trim package that included power windows, cruise control, and other stuff. Could also be body-colored interior panels and body-colored mirrors (the CE has black mirrors).

For all intents and purposes, they are the same car.

The difference is just a trim level. The CE is the base for that year, S is for sport (mid-level) and LE is the top of the line version, now the CE can have everything manual (Windows, door locks, mirrors) the S will have standard power windows and door locks. most noticeable difference is the S comes in only black interior as for the CE will come in a few different shades of either tan or grey. You will have a red cluster on the S not found on the CE, the S will have standard fog lights and side skirt valances. Same engine, 1.8L inline 4 cylinder and transmission either a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed auto on either. The S will not have down rear seats as it has a brace behind rear seats and the CE will have split 50/50 fold down rear seats.

I have no reason to believe you're not right, but I find it laughable that the "S" loses the utility of a fold-down rear seat just to add a silly brace... I get that rigidity helps handling, but there is very little that is "sporty" about the "S" option otherwise. Seems like a very dumb place to add "performance" while sacrificing a feature that is highly desirable and useful.

/rant

I agree with what your saying doesn't make sense I would have liked to have fold down seats would be very useful but I don't and I've seen this feature in every 01-02 Corolla S I've seen. I'm about 97% sure I'm correct but if you see one with fold down let me know so I know that is not the case. I own a 01 Corolla S and that's exactly what mine has its factory not add on