Say you have a 2000-2002 Corolla - intakes should be the same.
The 1998-1999 Corolla are MAP based. The 2000 and 2002 Corollas are MAF based. They are not compatible for the reason you stated, the MAF sensor.
Intakes for 2003-2004 will generally not fit the 2002 and under - 2005 are different as well.
Big changes that happened in 2000 for the 8th generation Corolla was the addition of VVT-i to the 1ZZFE engine and switch to coil over plugs. Any intake and ignition related parts that state guarantee fitment for 1998+ Corolla is totally false.
If you are determined to get a different filter/intake - instead of an aftermarket intake - go with a good quality panel filter in OEM airbox. The OEM box flows much better than most are lead to believe. Even some of the best aftermarket intakes (read expensive CAI or icebox types) will generally add a few to several HP gain to the upper end on most modern engines. Most sacrifice some low end torque for high RPM HP gains.