I think it's misleading to make out old cars need "nothing done to them".. It's the small things like alternators go, radiators go, bushes get worn, wheel bearings wear out, they get annoying oil leaks, etc, etc. All of these things can cost a bit to get fixed when you add them up over time. Yes, even on corollas. I've had plenty of daily drivers over the years, and they all need things done to them, and it's a pain in the arse having to fix this and that on the daily, when you have a car you'd much rather be spending time and money on.
If your mate is not mechanically minded and able to fix things himself, then he'd probably want something newer.