Toyotas Celica

The Toyota Celica is a sports car that was produced by Toyota from 1970 to 2006. The Celicas name was derived from the Latin word coeliac, meaning “heavenly”, or “celestial”. The car was a move by Toyota to become more integrated with the American market, which at the time was running rampant with muscle cars and high gas prices. An economical Japanese muscle car was an apt contestant; Toyota just needed a thoughtful design that would appeal to Americans.

The Celica evidently took inspiration from Fords Mustang- perceivably the reigning champ of American muscle cars in the 70’s. After being denied a partnership with Ford, Toyota analyzed what about the Mustang was so well liked and made a sports car of their own in that image.

The second generation of the Celica was the most striking and memorable of the various alterations through the years. 1977 gave the Celica the option of an incredibly slick lift-back shape, that was again similar to Fords Mustang, but was fitting enough on the Celica to still be really cool. This generation was also bestowed with an informative gauge cluster, a blacked out grille, a prominent hood and an aesthetic pose.

The Celica was a fun, sporty car that appealed to young buyers in the mid-’70s, but is quite a rarity to see one these days. Interestingly enough, if you happen to find one for sale, it will likely be hilariously underpriced. Although the powertrain is simple and withstanding, the bodies are prone to rust and the sheet metal for them isn’t available. Many of the parts are now becoming more and more scarce as well. Because of this, it would be extremely wise to buy one of these with original mechanicals and a refurbished exterior. Alas what you will likely find out there, if anything, would be a modified shell of a Celica.