Not harsher but maybe engages better.. My clutch was old when I got the car so I don't know how the oem one is but in my experience with several other cars better higher quality ones just feel better. Maybe not like a race clutch or anything crazy like that but something a little bit better quality
Well there's an old saying; "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
With 71,000 miles it's possible the clutch just needs adjusting, (if possible with a Corolla). Call around to a few transmission shops in your area to inquire.
I honestly think my clutch is burnt out because when I take off if I'm under 2000 rpms it vibrates a lot and feels like I'm going to lose it. I don't know if something can be done to fix or just new one all together but every gear is fine as well as downshifting
A transmission shop will take a look at it for you for free, but be sure to get a second and third opinion, as a dishonest shop will immediately recommend a replacement of course.
