Check out this video of Low Drag Le Mans Cars including the Porsche 956 and the Jaguar XJR-9LM with it’s 7.0 V12 engine producing 750bhp.
The =&0=& is a two-seat, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car produced by Toyota, from 1984 until July 2007 when production stopped in Japan. There are three different generations of the MR2: 1984–1989, with angular, origami-like lines, 1990–1999, which had styling that some compared to Ferrari sports cars, and 2000–2007, which somewhat resembled the Porsche Boxster. It was designed to be small, with an economical powerplant, but sporty in style and handling. Basic design elements, such as MacPherson strut front and rear suspensions and transverse-mounted inline-four engines, are common to all three generations of MR2, though each generation differs greatly from the next in particulars.In Japan, it was exclusive to Toyota Japanese dealerships called Toyota Vista Store as an alternative to the Toyota Celica which was exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store locations.
Origins
The MR2’s life began in 1976 when Toyota launched a design project with the goal of producing a car which would be enjoyable to drive, yet still provide good fuel economy. Initially the purpose of the project was not to design a sports car. The actual design work began in 1979 when Akio Yoshida from Toyota’s testing department started to evaluate different alternatives for engine placement and drive method. The choice was finally made to place the engine transversely in the middle of the car. The result was the first prototype in 1981, dubbed the =&1=&. From its base design, the car began evolving into an actual sports car, and further prototypes were tested intensely both in Japan and in California. A significant amount of testing was performed on actual race circuits such as Willow Springs, where former Formula One driver Dan Gurney tested the car. All three generations are in compliance with Japanese Government regulations concerning exterior dimensions and engine displacement. It appeared around the same time as the Japanese competitors Honda CR-X, the Mazda Miata, the Nissan EXA, the VW Scirocco and Fiat X1/9 from Europe, and the Pontiac Fiero and Ford EXP from North America.
Toyota made its =&2=& concept car public in October 1983 at the Tokyo Motor Show, gathering a huge amount of publicity both from the press and the audience. The car, scheduled to be launched in the second quarter of 1984 in the Japanese market under the name MR2 (which stands for “mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-seater”), was to become the first mass-produced mid-engined car to come from a Japanese manufacturer. In France the name was shortened to MR to avoid the similarity in pronunciation of MR2 with the French words est merdeux, meaning “(it) is shitty”.
First generation (W10; 1984–1989)
The small and light MR2 was something no one had expected from Toyota, known for their economical and practical family cars. The two-seat MR2 was definitely not practical as a family car, nor was it intended to be, having been designed instead with style and sport as priorities. The moniker ‘Mid-engined Runabout, 2 Seater’ was more than a marketing tool – it was the fundamental design philosophy.
At its introduction in 1984, it won the Car of the Year Japan Award.
The folded angular lines evoked origami paper sculpture. Other cars with a similar design concept including the Lancia Beta Montecarlo, Fiat X 1/9 and the exotic Lancia Stratos were all produced in the 70s and early 80s. The most important features of the MR2 were its light body 950 kg in Japan and 1066 kg in the US, superior handling and lightly powered, small-displacement engine. The car is often referred to as the AW11, referring to the chassis code of the most common 1.6-litre, A-engined versions.
Some rumors have persisted that the MR2 was designed by Lotus. This is a reference to the Lotus M90 (a.k.a. the X100) project, but this was scrapped after a single prototype was built. This used the same engine and gearbox as the MR2. At the time, Toyota, along with the Chapman family was a major share holder in Lotus, but General Motors later acquired majority control. However, the MR2’s suspension and handling were designed by Toyota with the help of Lotus engineer Roger Becker. Toyota’s cooperation with Lotus during the prototype phase can be seen in the AW11, and it owes much to Lotus’s legendary sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Toyota’s active suspension technology called TEMS was not installed.
As a power plant, Toyota chose to use the naturally aspirated 4A-GE 1,587 cc inline-four engine, a dual overhead-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder motor, borrowed from the E80 series Corolla. This engine was also equipped with DENSO electronic port fuel injection and a variable intake geometry (“T-VIS”), giving the engine a maximum power output of 112 hp in the US, 128 hp in the UK, 114 or 122 hp in Europe (with or without catalytic converter), 118 hp in Australia and 128 hp in Japan. Japanese models were later downrated to 118 hp. The engine had already been introduced earlier on the AE86 Corolla, gathering a lot of positive publicity. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. Road tests delivered 0-60 mph times in the mid- to high-8 second range, and 1/4 mile times in the mid- to high-16 second range, significantly faster than the four-cylinder Pontiac Fiero or Fiat X1/9. In the home market, the AW10 base model was offered, which used the more economical 1452 cc 3A-U engine rated at 82 hp, but it attracted few buyers.
In 1987 (1988 for the US market), Toyota introduced a =&4=& engine for the MR2. Based on the same block and head, the 4A-GZE was equipped with a small Roots-type supercharger and a Denso intercooler. T-VIS was eliminated and the compression ratio was lowered to 8:1. It produced 145 horsepower and 140 pound-feet and accelerated the small car from 0 to 62 mph in 6.5 to 7.0s. The supercharger was belt-driven but actuated by an electromagnetic clutch, so that it would not be driven except when needed, increasing fuel economy. Curb weight increased to as much as 1,131 kg for supercharged models, due to the weight of the supercharger equipment and a new, stronger transmission. A fuel selector switch was also added in some markets, to allow the car to run on regular unleaded if required to. In addition to the new engine, the MR2 SC was also equipped with stiffer springs, and received special “tear-drop” aluminium wheels. The engine cover had two raised vents (only one of which was functional) that visually distinguished it from the naturally aspirated models. It was also labeled “Supercharged” on the rear trunk and body mouldings behind both doors. This model was never offered in European or Australian markets, although some cars were privately imported.
Changes by year
=&6=&T-bar roof option available in Japan
Revised transmission
Color-keyed bumpers, side stripes, side skirts available
Leather interior becomes an option
Rear anti-roll bar discontinued on North American models
=&7=&Supercharged model introduced in Japan, offered with four-speed A/T or five-speed M/T
T-bar roof available in North America and Europe
Slight unibody changes
Revised rear suspension and larger brake rotors
New front lip
New tail lights for North America
Naturally aspirated 4A-GE rated at 115 horsepower in America
Air filter relocated to the trunk
New center console, steering wheel, gauge cluster markings, and seat colors
=&8=&Supercharged model available in North America
1989
Incandescent third brake lamp replaced by LED strip integrated into the rear spoiler
North American supercharged models equipped with rear anti-roll bar
The MR2’s legacy
The press received the AW11 with open arms and praised its innovation, great feeling, and responsive engine. American car magazines Road & Track and Car and Driver both chose the MR2 on their lists of ten best cars which included some tough competition, such as the Ferrari Testarossa. The Australian Wheels magazine chose the 1988 MR2 as its favourite sports car. The MR2 was Motor Trend’s Import Car of the Year for 1985. (It is worth noting that the MR2 was not eligible for the Car of the Year award, because only vehicles produced in the US were eligible until 1999. The 1985 winner, the Volkswagen GTI, was produced in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania.) The MR2 was also on Car and Driver magazine’s Ten Best list for 1986 and 1987. In 2004, Sports Car International ranked the MR2 number eight on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1980s.
In January 1989 Toyota produced a final run of fully optioned “Super Edition” MR2s. The ‘Super Edition’ included all the extras of the G-Limited models along with extra features such as a MOMO-commissioned steering wheel and gear knob, Recaro “Milano” seats with matching door panels, and “SUPER EDITION” decals on the rear visor and side stripes). Super Edition cars were sold in special Midnight Blue or white/gold two-tone paint; 270 were produced in each color.
Popular Swaps
The MR2 Mk I still enjoys a fan base to this day. Its twin cam 1600 cc engine has potential, but its power has since been surpassed. Many enthusiasts have decided to turbocharge the engine as an upgrade, while others have decided to bypass this route and simply swap the engine out entirely. Popular swaps include both the fourth-generation 4A-GE twin cam 20-valve silver and black tops, the MR2 Mk II’s 3S-GTE and the BEAMS 3S-GE engines, and the supercharged 4A-GZE 16-valve engines typically found in supercharged MR2’s. Recently, some enthusiasts are choosing to go with V6 engines found in the Toyota Camry and other models.
Toyota 222D rally car
While Toyota’s front-engine, rear-drive Celica rally cars proved dominant in the African Group B rallies of the 1980s, they were at a disadvantage on the twistier European stages. Thus, in 1985 Toyota Team Europe started a rally project codenamed “222D” based on the MR2, for competition in Group S and potentially Group B as well. Though somewhat similar on the outside, it’s clear that it shared very little with the production car. Little is known about this project because it never competed before Group B was canceled in 1986.
During a surprise appearance at the 2006 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Toyota drove and displayed a black 222D. The race-ready car weighed around 750 kilograms (1,700 lb) and its transverse-mounted, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine (what appears to be a 503E race engine, though other prototypes may have used the 4T-GTE) was reported to produce as much as 750 horsepower (560 kW). A V6-powered prototype was also rumored to exist, but has never been seen in public.
Second generation (W20; 1989–1999)
The MR2 went through a complete redesign in 1989 (though North America did not receive them until late 1990 as 1991 models). The new car was larger and weighed 350 to 400 pounds (160 to 180 kg) more than its predecessor. The body styling was now much more rounded and streamlined, bearing a resemblance to both the Ferrari 348 and the Ferrari F355. Because of this, the new MR2 was labeled by some as “The poor man’s Ferrari”. Despite this, the new look was generally well-received, and undoubtedly helped sales.
=&9=& trim levels:
=&10=& with an NA 2.0L 3S-GE engine producing 163 hp; with an A/T standard and an optional M/T. The G was the base model of the SW20 line-up. Standard features included: climate control, electric mirrors, and fabric door/seat trim.
=&11=& with the NA 2.0L 3S-GE engine; an A/T was standard or an M/T was optional. The G-Limited was the higher-specification naturally aspirated SW20. Additional standard features: electric folding mirrors, steering fog lamps, and rear spoiler.
=&12=& with a turbocharged 2.0L 3S-GTE engine producing 218 hp; an M/T was the only choice. The GT-S had the same standard features as the G-Limited.
=&13=& with the turbocharged 2.0L 3S-GTE engine and manual transmission. The GT was considered as the luxury specification in the SW20 line-up and had alcantera/leather door and seat trim in addition to G-Limited standard features. All Japanese market cars came equipped with electronic climate control featuring 2 stage air conditioning.
=&14=& trim levels:
=&15=& with the NA 2.0L 3S-FE engine producing 138 hp (not available with T-bar roof). This model had no rear spoiler or front fog lights
=&16=& with the NA 2.0L 3S-GE engine producing 154 metric horsepower 152 hp.
=&17=& with the NA 2.0L 3S-GE engine. Options included as standard were full leather seats/door cards and the premium 8 speaker audio system.
There were no turbo models officially offered to the European market; however, many Japanese models were sold via the grey market.
=&18=& trim levels:
=&19=& with a NA 2.2L 5S-FE engine producing 130 hp and offered with a four-speed A/T or five-speed M/T.
=&20=& with a turbocharged 2.0L 3S-GTE engine producing 200 hp, offered only with a 5-speed M/T (offered solely with the T-bar roof after early 1993).
There are many subtle visual differences between the normally aspirated and turbocharged models: including the “turbo” emblem (US) on the rear trunk, ‘TWIN CAM 16 TURBO’ decal above the side intake (Japanese market), a fiberglass engine lid with raised vents, fog lights (though most Japanese and European NA models came with fog lights), and an added interior center storage compartment located between the two seats. All SW20 MR2s came with a staggered wheel setup, with wider wheels and tires in the rear than in the front.
Mechanical differences on the Turbo models include, but are not limited to:
3S-GTE engine with associated air to air intercooler and different exhaust configuration;
Stronger and heavier E153 gearbox with different ratios and stronger axles;
Larger fuel pump and radiator.
Models with 3S-GE and 3S-GTE engines had twin-piston front brake calipers. Models with the 5S-FE engine had only single-piston calipers.
The US market MR2 Turbo model was able to accelerate from 0-60 in 6.1 seconds and finish the 1/4 mile in 14.7 seconds.
A Japanese market 1995 rev3 GT turbo was timed by Best Motoring at 14.227 seconds in the 1/4 mile.
Revisions and model year changes
The second-generation MR2 underwent a variety of changes during its 10 years of production, grouped in four different periods:
=&21=&
The first generation Toyota Celica GT is the one that does it for me, with a some subtle mods and tuning it turns a reasonably ordinary car into something that stands out in the crowd. Spanning over 30 years and selling millions the Celica can’t be bad for Toyota.
The =&0=& name has been applied to a series of coupes made by the Japanese company Toyota. The name is ultimately derived from the Latin word coelica meaning “heavenly” or “celestial”. In Japan, the Celica was exclusive to Toyota Japanese dealerships Toyota Corolla Store.
Throughout its life span the Celica has been powered by various four-cylinder engines. The most significant change occurred in August 1985, when the car’s drive layout was changed from rear wheel drive to front wheel drive. During the first three generations, American market Celicas were powered by various versions of Toyota’s R series engines. The four-wheel drive turbocharged model called =&1=& worldwide (All-Trac Turbo in the US) was produced from 1986 to 1999. Variable Valve Timing came in certain Japanese models starting in December 1997, and became standard in all models from 2000 on. Through seven generations, the model has gone through many revisions and design forks, including the Toyota Celica Supra (later known as the =&2=&). The Celica was available as notchback and liftback coupes, as well as a convertible.
First Generation / A20/35 Series (1970–1977)
Displayed at the October 1970 Tokyo Motor Show and marketed in December of the same year, the Celica was a personal car that emphasized styling and driving enjoyment. Japanese models were ET, LT, ST, GT, and GTV (which was introduced in 1972, the V standing for Victory). The platform was shared with the Toyota Carina, a vehicle exclusive to Toyota Store Japanese dealerships.
For export markets, the Celica was offered in three different levels of trim; =&3=&, =&4=& and =&5=&.
At its introduction the Celica was only available as a pillarless hardtop notchback coupe. The =&6=& liftback was shown as a concept car at the 1971 Tokyo Motor Show. With slight modifications, this was introduced in Japan in April 1973 as the 2-litre RA25 and 1.600 L TA27 liftbacks. It was then exported to Europe in RHD form as the 1.6-litre liftback. After the October 1975 facelift, it was available in both RHD and LHD forms in other markets. The =&7=& wagon was also shown at the 1971 Tokyo Motor Show but it did not reach production.
The Japanese GT models had various differences from the ET, LT and ST including the hood flutes, power windows, air conditioning, and specific GT trim, but shared a few things with the ST – a full-length center console and oil pressure/ammeter gauges while the LT had warning lights for these functions.
There was also the =&8=& version, which differed from the GT with a slightly cut-down interior, and did not come standard with things like power windows, but they were optional. The GTV has firmer suspension.
The first generation Celicas can be further broken down into two distinctive models. The first of these was the original with slant nose (trapezoid-like shape front corner light). This is for Coupe model only, TA22, RA20, and RA21. These models were released from 1970 to 1975 and came equipped with the 2T, 2T-G 1.6-liter, or 18R 2.0-liter motor. They had a 95 inches (2,400 mm) wheelbase. The second series had a flat nose (square front corner light) and slightly longer wheelbase (98 in or 2,500 mm wheelbase). This facelift model appeared in Japan in 1974, but for export was the 1976 model year. The Japanese version had engines under 2.0 liters so as to conform to Japanese regulations concerning engine displacement size, thereby allowing buyers to avoid an additional tax for a larger engine.
In some markets, the lower-end LT was equipped with the single carbureted four-cylinder 2T engine displacing 1,600 cc, while the ST came with a twin downdraft-carburetor 2T-B engine. The 2T-G that powered the high-end GT model was a DOHC 1,600 cc engine equipped with twin Mikuni-Solex Carburetors.
The first Celica for North America, 1971 ST was powered by 1.9-liter 8R engine. The 1972–1974 models have 2.0-liter 18R-C engines. For 1975–77, the engine for the North American Celica is the 2.2-liter 20R. The Celica GT and LT models were introduced in the U.S. for the 1974 model year. The top-line GT included a 5-speed manual transmission, rocker panel GT stripes, and styled steel wheels with chrome trim rings. The LT was marketed as an economy model. Mid-1974 saw minor changes in the Celica’s trim and badges and slightly different wheel arches. The A30 automatic transmission became an option on North American ST and LT models starting in the 1973 model year. For 1975, the 1974 body was used, but body-color plastic fascia and sturdier chrome and black rubber bumpers, replaced the chrome bumpers used in the earlier cars (in accordance with US Federal bumper laws). Unfortunately the early 8R and 18R series engines proved to be less than durable, with early failures common. The 1974 18R-C engine’s durability was improved somewhat, but the 20R introduced for 1975 proved to be a better engine in most respects.
1972 Minor Update
In August 1972, the tail lights were updated from 1 piece tail light (affectionately called 1-tail) to tail lights with distinctive turn signals. The rear center garnish was also redesigned. The fuel tank was moved from the trunk bottom to behind the rear seats; the fuel filler was moved from a concealed location between the tail lights to the left C pillar.
Liftback
The =&9=& was introduced for Japanese market in April 1973, but not until 1976 for export models. Models for home market Liftback were 1600ST, 1600GT (TA27), 2000ST, and 2000GT (RA25 and RA28). The American Liftback was only offered as GT (RA29) with a 2.2-liter 20R engine. All the Liftback models have flat noses. Although there is no “B” pillar in the Liftback, the rear windows do not roll down (as they do in the hardtop coupe).
The Liftback was often called the “Japanese Mustang” or the “Mustang Celica” because of the styling similarities to the Ford Mustang pony car, including the triple bar tail lights that are a signature Mustang styling cue and the overall homages to the muscle-car era.
Facelift export models
In October 1975, The entire Celica lineup was given a facelift, with a revised front bumper and grille arrangement. The new model codes for facelift hardtop coupe were RA23 for general worldwide market with 18R engine, or RA24 for the American spec with 20R engine. The Liftback were coded RA28 for worldwide or RA29 for US. Also available was the TA23, which was similar to the RA23, but with the 2T engine. The RA23 and RA28 had a more distinctive bulge hood, which was lacking in the TA22 or RA20 Coupe and in the TA27 and RA25 Liftback Celica. The TA22 Celica also had removable vents mounted in the hood, which the RA23 and RA28 lacked. The RA series also had an elongated nose to accommodate the larger engine. The door vents, fuel filler cap, and interior were also different between the TA and RA series.
For 1976–1977, the non-US GT Liftback was released with the 18R-G Twincam engine with a Yamaha head and running gear. This engine produced significantly more power than the 18R-C. Peak power was about 134 hp at 6,000 rpm.
In Australia, the Celica was first released in the 1.6 L 2T motor. The later 1975–1977 Celica was released with the 2.0 L 18R motor.
Second generation (A40, A50; 1977–1981)
The second generation Celica was released for 1978 model year (production began in late 1977), and was again available in both Coupe and Liftback forms. Interestingly, it was designed in the United States by Toyota’s Calty Research Design studio in California. The Coupe was no longer a true hardtop; both Coupe and Liftback had frameless door glass but featured a thick “B” pillar. David Stollery was responsible for its design.
From 1979 to 1981 the Griffith company in the US offered a Targa style convertible conversion to the Coupe. They were called the =&10=& and had a removable Targa top and a folding rear roof, much like the ’67 Porsche 911 soft-window Targa. These were Toyota approved and sold through Toyota dealers. Over 2000 were produced.
The second generation Celica can also be broken down into two series of release (known as Series A and Series B). These two Celicas were only distinguishable by appearance – both having the same engine capacity. The original Series A Celica (1978–1979) was released with round headlights and chrome bumpers for lower grades. The higher grades such as GT and all US models have black rubber bumpers. The facelift model Series B Celica (1979–1981) was released with square headlights, revised tail lights. They came with chrome bumpers with rubber protectors on each corners, or for certain models with all polyurethane black bumpers such on the GT and all US spec cars.
Power for North American models was provided by a 2.2 L 20R engine for both ST and GT models. Japan and other markets had 1.6-, 1.8-, and 2.0-liter powerplants. This new generation offered more safety, power and fuel economy than previous models, and was awarded Motor Trend’s “Import Car of the Year” for 1978. Japanese models were ET, LT, ST, SE, XT, GT, and GTV. The GT and GTV have an 18R-G Twincam engine. In late 1978, the GTV was replaced by =&11=&.
The limited edition “US Grand Prix” GT Liftback was offered in 1980 due to Toyota’s connection to the U.S. Grand Prix West in Long Beach, California. For 1981, the North American models were given a bigger engine, the 2.4-liter 22R which was simultaneously fitted to the Pickup. To celebrate the Celica 10th Anniversary, the =&12=& was released. This was basically a GT Coupe with 4-speed automatic transmission, Supra style interior, power windows, upgraded sound system and alloys. The GTA is distinguishable by the black/gold two tone paint and a “GTA 10th anniversary” plaque on the center console.
There were about 70 different variants of second generation Celica sold in Japan over the model’s life time. At its pinnacle in 1979, Toyota retailed 49 versions at once.
Celica XX / Celica Supra
In 1978 Toyota began production of the Mark I Toyota Supra in Japan, as the Toyota Celica XX. The year it debuted in the United States and Japan was in 1979. The U.S. Mark I (chassis code MA46) was originally equipped with a 110 hp 2.6 L (2563 cc) 12-valve SOHC inline-6 engine (4M-E). Simultaneously in 1979, the Japanese Mark I (chassis code MA45) was offered with a 110 hp 2.0 L 12-valve SOHC inline-6 engine (M-EU).
Celica Camry
Toyota launched the Celica Camry, a four-door sedan, in the Japanese market during January 1980. This model was essentially a second generation 1977–1981 Toyota Carina (A40 and A50) with an elongated front-end styled to resemble the 1978–1981 Celica XX, known as the Celica Supra in export markets. Unlike other Celicas, this Carina-derived model is a four-door sedan rather than a coupé or liftback. Toyota replaced the Celica Camry upon the arrival of the front-wheel drive Toyota Camry (V10) in 1982.
Third generation / A60 Series (1981–1985)
August 1981 saw the introduction of the third generation Celica. The car was initially available in coupe and liftback forms with many buyers preferring the liftback. The US-made convertible came in 1984. Styling was changed considerably from previous models and power was provided by a 2.4 L 22R or 22R-E engine in all North American models, while smaller engines were used in other countries. The 2.4 L became the biggest 4 cylinder engine offered in any Celica ever. Other engines were the 1.8-liter 4A, 1.6-liter 2T, 1.8-liter 3T, 1.8-liter 4T, 1.8-liter 1S, 2.0-liter 2S, 2.0-liter 18R-G and 2.0-liter 21R, depending on the particular market. Trim levels are SV, ST, ST-EFI, SX, GT, and GT Rally. Rack and pinion steering was offered with this Celica.
Fuel injection became standard on all North American Celicas started from August 1982, therefore the 22R engine became 22R-EC. In August 1982, Toyota added the =&13=& model to the North American market to re-inject the sports image that Celica had lost as it grew larger and heavier with each subsequent model. The GT-S included larger 14×7″ wheels and 225/60HR14 tires, fender flares, independent rear suspension, a sports interior including special seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob. Most of these came from the Supra. This made sense as the Supra was based on the Celica. From the windshield back, both cars were nearly identical when in liftback form. There were also optional rear louvers for the coupe and liftback. The upgraded GT-S wheels are coveted as replacements by many people who own first generation Celicas as they remained four-lug and looked sportier than first generation wheels while still providing the “classic Celica” look and feel. The wheels were also polished aluminium as opposed to the flat finish of the lower models.
The Celica was updated in August 1983 for the 1984 model year. The revision included fully retractable headlights, restyled grille, and airdam. The rear combination lamps were also revised. The Japanese Celica 1600 GT got new 4A-GE engine, and the 1600 GT-R also powered by the same motor was introduced. Another new model was the turbocharged 1800 GT-TR.
The GT-S Convertible, built by American Specialty Cars (ASC) in California, released 200 units in 1984, and 4,248 units for the 1985 model year.
The Australian, European, Japanese, and general export model Celicas came with rear side vents, which are highly sought after by North American Celica enthusiasts.
In Europe, the Celica was offered as 1600ST with 2T engine, 2000XT (21R), and 2000GT (18R-G).
In Australia, Toyota decided initially to use the 21R-C in the dulled-down model Celica. As a result the car only turned out a mere 67 kW (90 hp). However, this was later replaced, firstly, by the far quicker 73 kW (98 hp) 2S-C motor and then by the injected 2.4-litre motor (22R-E) which provided 117 hp. Later versions used IRS rear suspension, rather than the traditional live axle differential.
Twincam Turbo Group B Rally Car
In September 1982, the first Celica turbo was launched in Japan for the local market only. The =&14=& (TA63) came with the twin-spark 1.8-liter 3T-GTE engine, W55 5-speed manual gearbox, a limited slip differential, pump up lumbar “sports” seats and optional digital dash. To meet the FISA regulation for Group B Rally Car to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC), 200 units of the Celica =&15=& were built. These were the basic cars for Group B Celica Twincam Turbo (TA64) which were built and rallied by Toyota Team Europe (TTE). The Group B Celica TCT made its WRC debut in the 1983 Rally Finland. The production car had 178 hp engine, and with 320 bhp 4T-GTE engine, the fully works rally car was the most powerful third generation Celica.
Fourth generation / T160 Series (1985–1989)
In August 1985 the Celica was changed completely. It was an all-new vehicle with =&16=&, a rounded, flowing body and new 2.0 L four-cylinder engines. The Celica was no longer built on the Toyota A platform, and instead realigned with the Toyota T platform underpinning the Toyota Corona. The Toyota A platform was now exclusive to the Toyota Supra. The coupe bodystyle in Japan was used only for the =&17=&, sold only at Japanese Toyota dealerships Toyopet Store without the retractable headlights. An optional feature only offered on the Corona Coupe was four-wheel steering, not shared with the Celica during this generation, however, the turbocharged engine on the Celica was not installed in the Corona Coupe.
Toyota introduced the “ultimate Celica”, the =&1=& (ST165) onto the Japanese market in October 1986. With full-time all-wheel drive, including an electronically controlled central locking differential, and a turbocharged version of the GT-S 2.0 L engine producing 190 hp (3S-GTE), it immediately took its place as the flagship of the Celica range, and became the official Toyota rally car for all years of production. The GT-Four, with a revised viscous coupling central locking differential, began export in 1987 (1988 US model year) and marketed in North America as the =&19=&. It was rated at 190 bhp and 190 lb·ft. The All-trac system was also offered for a limited time on the Camry, and Corolla in North America without the turbo, as well as the normally aspirated and supercharged Previa.
The ST165 chassis design was quite acclaimed in its time. Toyota chose not to make any drastic suspension changes for the AWD GT-Four. The front suspension comprises MacPherson struts with an anti-swaybar and strut tower brace, while the rear employs struts with a trailing link and twin lateral links per side plus an anti-swaybar.
The ST165 GT-Four made its World Rally debut in the 1988 Tour de Corse and finished 6th. The first victory came in 1988 Cyprus (non-WRC), and the first WRC victory in 1989 Rally Australia.
Japan
For the Japanese market the fourth generation Celica started with the 1S-iSU engine in the ST160 and 4A engine in the AT160. The 4A engine was terminated in August 1987 and the 1S-iLU engine was replaced by the 4S-Fi engine in the ST163 in May 1988. The 3S engine in various twincam forms was introduced in August 1987 in the ST162. The 3S-GTE turbo engine was also introduced at the same time in the all-wheel drive ST165 GT-Four. Two months later, a factory convertible (coded ST162C) was offered with the twincam 3S-FE engine.
Non twincam models came in ST and SX trim levels. Models with the 3S-FE economy twincam came in the ZR trim level, including the convertible. Models with the 3S-GELU sports twincam came in GT and GT-R trim levels and lastly the turbo all-wheel drive model came in the GT-Four trim level. A digital instrument panel was offered on the top level GT and GT-R. The notchback two-door coupé bodystyle was not offered as a Celica in Japan; instead this body was sold as the Toyota Corona Coupé, with fixed headlights rather than the Celica’s flip-up units.
Australia
The Australian spec Celica ST162 were the base model ST with 3S-FE engine offered as Coupe and Liftback, and the top of the line SX Liftback with higher performance 3S-GE Twincam engine. Rear spoiler and alloy wheels came standard on the SX, which made it the same appearance as the Japanese GT-R or American GT-S. The limited edition =&20=& with all white bumpers, side protectors and wheels was offered in 1989. This featured cruise control (automatic models only) and the same sports seats used in the ST165 GT-Four, but was otherwise identical to the SX.
Europe
In most European countries these models were available instead:
Chassis code – AT160 | Model 1.6 ST | Engine – 1587 cc 8V 4A-C (carb) | Power 87 PS @ 5600 rpm, 136 Nm @ 3600 rpm | 1005 KG | 0-100 km/h 12.4 seconds | Top Speed 109 mph.
Chassis code – AT160 | Model 1.6 GT | Engine – 1587 cc 16V 4A-GE | Power 125 PS @ 6600 rpm, 142 Nm @ 5000 rpm | 1060 KG | 0-100 km/h 8.9 seconds | Top Speed 127 mph.
Chassis code – AT162 | Model 2.0 GT | Engine – 1998 cc 16V 3S-FE | Power 125 PS @ 5600 rpm, 169 Nm @ 4400 rpm | 1460 KG | 0-100 km/h 8.9 seconds | Top Speed 127 mph.
Chassis code – AT162 | Model 2.0 GT-S | Engine – 1998 cc 16V 3S-GE | Power 152 PS @ 6400 rpm, 180 Nm @ 4800 rpm | 1130 KG | 0-100 km/h 8.6 seconds | Top Speed 130 mph.
Chassis code – AT165 | Model 2.0 GT-Four | Engine – 1998 cc 16V 3S-GTE Turbo | Power 193 PS @ 6000 rpm, 249 Nm @ 3200 rpm | 1465 KG | 0-100 km/h 7.9 seconds | Top Speed 137 mph.
The Convertible or better known as Cabriolet was based on the 2.0 GT. The GT-S was badged 2.0 GT-i 16.
North America
Trims available were the ST coupe or the GT and GT-S that came as a coupe or liftback; with the GT trim available as a soft-top convertible starting in the 1987 model year. The GT-Four was available as a model year 1988, 2 years after the release in Japan. All trims came standard with a tachometer, oil pressure, voltmeter (replaced with a boost meter in the ST165) gauges and a rear window defogger for the interior.
=&4=&: The ST was the most basic form of the T160 chassis. In 1986, the chassis was designated as the ST161. It had the SOHC 8-valve, 2.0 L 2S-E engine from the Camry, producing 97 hp at 4400 rpm and 118 ft-lbs. of torque at 4000 rpm. However this only lasted a year as it was changed over to an all new DOHC engine 3S-FE for the 1987 model year producing 115 hp at 5200 rpm and 124 ft-lbs. of torque at 4400 rpm; and as a result, the chassis designation was changed to ST162. The ST was the lightest T160 chassis at 2455 lbs. with the manual transmission. A 5-speed manual was the only transmission available in 1986, with a 4-speed automatic being optional 1987 onwards, bringing the curb weight to 2522 lbs. Steel wheels were wrapped with 165/80-13 tires. The interior had manual windows and locks, bucket seats and an AM/FM receiver as standard features. Power steering and power brakes were standard, with ventilated discs in the front and drum brakes in the rear to go along with a 4×100 bolt pattern. Cable operated air-conditioning was optional.
=&5=&: The GT shared the ST’s engine as well as the chassis designation being the ST161 with a 2S-E engine in 1986 quickly changing over to the ST162 with a 3S-FE engine 1987 onwards. The curb weight was 2515 lbs for the coupe and 2546 lbs. for the liftback. A 4 speed overdrive automatic transmission (A140L) was an option, bringing the curb weight up to 2579 and 2610 lbs., respectively. The convertible weighed in at 2700 lbs. for the manual and 2760 lbs. for the automatic. For the interior, the GT came with an electronic 4 speaker AM/FM/MPX tuner, power side mirrors, tilt steering wheel, driver’s lumbar support and an automatic retracting radio antenna was standard. Power locks, windows, power tilt/slide sunroof, side mirror defogger, cruise control, electronic air-conditioning, and 13″x5.5″ aluminum alloy wheels were optional with 185/70-13 tires. Interestingly enough, a digital instrument panel was available as an option for the non-convertible GT trim only. The GT also includes a front strut bar across the two strut towers as an upgrade over the ST trim, but retains the front ventilated disc and rear drum brake combination from the ST. A rear window wiper/washer was introduced as an option in 1987.
=&13=&: The GT-S (chassis code ST162) was given a de-tuned version of the DOHC 2.0 L engine (3S-GELC) featuring T-VIS and a 6800 rpm redline producing 135 hp at 6000 rpm and 125 ft-lbs of torque at 4800 rpm. An EGR and O2 sensor restricted the engine along with a milder ECU. The GT-S replaced the rear drum brakes with disc brakes going along with a 5×100 bolt pattern. Standard features in addition to the GT trim included an 8-way adjustable sports bucket seats with power lumbar and side bolsters, automatic climate control, side mirror defogger, wrap-around spoiler, telescopic steering wheel, and speed-rated 205/60-14 tires on 14″x6″ alloy wheels. Leather interior including shift knob, door panel inserts, and steering wheel were optional. In Canada, all GT-S models were 5-speed (S53) manual transmissions, but in America, an electronic controlled 4-speed automatic (A140E) with lock-up torque converter was available. New features in 1988-1989 included an illuminated vanity light as standard and ABS as optional.
=&24=&: The turbo All-Trac (chassis code ST165), or turbo 4wd as it was named in Canada, was given a DOHC turbo-charged, water-to-air intercooled 2.0L engine (3S-GTE) featuring T-VIS producing 190 hp at 6000 rpm and 190 ft-lbs of torque at 3200 rpm. The All-Trac only came with a 5 speed all wheel drive transmission with a viscous-coupling center differential, bringing the curb weight to 3197 lbs. The ST165 was not sold in North America before 1988 except for seventy-seven special-edition cars sold in 1987 as 1988 models at each of the 77 Toyota dealerships in California to commemorate Toyota’s IMSA GTO championship win. These Celicas are all white with white wheels and blue interior and have “IMSA GTO CHAMPION” printed in small letters on the side moulding, as well as a white stripe on the grill. This top of the line trim came with the same options as the GT-S with the exception of the power interior options, leather steering wheel, fog lights, V-rated tires, and a factory full body kit as standard. One interior feature that is missing from the GT-S trim and other trims is the cup holder as the center console is different due to a larger center body tunnel to accommodate for the ST165’s center drive shaft.
Fifth Generation/ T180 Series (1989–1993)
The fifth generation Celica was introduced in September 1989 for the 1990 model year. The Celica received new Super Round organic styling, upgraded wheels and tires, more powerful GT-Four (US: All-Trac) with better cooling system, and for the Japanese market only, the 4-Wheel Steering (=&25=&) models. Toyota engineers claimed that the round styling and lack of straight edges increased strength without adding weight. The styling was later copied by other manufacturers. Japanese domestic market (JDM) models were now S-R, Z-R, GT-R, Active Sports (with active suspension), and GT-Four. The S-R and Z-R were powered by a 3S-FE engine, while the GT-R and Active Sports came with a 3S-GE. The 3S-GTE in the GT-Four features an air-to-air intercooler and CT26 twin entry turbo to eliminate exhaust gas interference. The JDM GT-Four has 221 hp and 304 N·m of torque, a result of more aggressive ignition advance and ceramic turbine. The Full-time 4WD system in the GT-Four has viscous coupling limited slip center differential and Torsen rear differential. Eddie Murphy made television commercials in Japan for the fifth-generation Celica, promoting the styling and the Super Live Sound System.
The North American Celica had fixed door mirrors and amber front corner lights. All other models had folding mirrors and front clear corner lights. Driver’s side SRS Airbag is standard on all US models. The base model ST has 1.6 L 4A-FE, the GT and GT-S were powered by the 2.2 L 5S-FE. The 1.6L was similar to the one used in the Corolla. The GT-S was rated 5 hp more than the GT at 135 bhp. The 2.2 L was designed for more low-end torque, which appealled to US buyers’ preferences as opposed to the high revving engines of the past. This engine was similar to the Camry’s engine except for the balance shafts. The All-Trac Turbo was available with the improved 2.0 L 3S-GTE engine. It was rated at 200 bhp and 271 N·m torque; an increase of 10 each from the previous model. The GT-S and all export market GT-Four are wide-body Liftbacks with flared fenders. The JDM GT-Four was also offered as normal body.
Trim levels for the European Celica were 1.6 ST-i, 2.0 GT-i 16, and GT-Four. The 2.0 GT-i 16 Cabriolet was offered only in certain European countries. Only the 2.0 GT-i 16 Liftback and GT-Four were officially sold in the UK. New for 1992, the wide body 2.0 GT-i 16 was offered in the Netherlands and Belgium. This was basically a GT-S with 3S-GE engine.
Models for Australia were SX Coupe, SX Liftback, GT-Four, and also 150 units limited edition GT-Four Group A Rallye. The Australian cars are less luxurious than JDM and North American models. Initially, the GT-Four did not come with ABS and fog lamps, which became standard few months after the introduction. In 1993, the Limited Edition =&26=& model was offered in Australia. This is basically the SX with sport front seats from the GT-Four, cruise control, rear window shade / spoiler, and special decals.
In August 1990, the wide body =&27=&
The GT86 from Toyota can’t be a bad car if it won the Top Gear Magazine “Car of the Year” for 2012 and Autocar named it “Best Drivers Car”. A lively rear wheel drive sports car powered by a 2 litre boxer engine, that can hit 60mph in around 6.2 seconds (as tested by Subaru) and goes on to 145mph.
The =&0=& is a series of grand tourer sports coupés jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. They feature a boxer engine, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and 2+2 seating. The 86 is sold under three different brands associated with its creators: Toyota (=&0=& in Japan, South Africa and Australia, =&2=& in Europe, both names in New Zealand, and =&3=& in Jamaica), Subaru (=&4=&) and Scion (=&5=& for the United States and Canada).
The name 86 (pronounced “eight-six” or Hachi-Roku, more commonly pronounced as “eighty-six”) refers to the AE86 generation of rear-wheel drive sports coupes and hatchbacks sold as the Toyota Sprinter Trueno and Toyota Corolla Levin from 1983 to 1987. The 86 has been marketed as the spiritual successor to the AE86s by Toyota, with further referencing to a heritage tracing back to the Toyota 2000GT, a front engine, rear-drive sports car with a 2.0 litre engine, as well as the Toyota Sports 800, Toyota’s first sports car. The 86 “boxer” badge appears on all Toyota and Scion-badged versions of the car.
Initial layout and design elements for the 86 were first shown in 2007 on the Toyota FT-HS concept car. The FT-HS had a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout and 2+2 seating, but utilized a V6 engine with hybrid electric assistance. In 2008 Toyota bought 16.5% of Fuji Heavy Industries, parent to Subaru. Toyota, led by project leader Tetsuya Tada, offered Subaru involvement in their sport coupé project, co-developing a new boxer engine known as the D4-S, but Subaru rejected plans for further development of a rear wheel drive sports coupe due to their vehicle line-up predominantly offering all-wheel drive. Subaru’s balk led the project to a six month halt before Toyota invited journalist and Subaru engineers to test a developmental prototype to demonstrate the capabilities of the platform. Following the test, Subaru agreed to become further involved in development.
The new collaboration produced a new concept car in October 2009 at the Tokyo Motor Show, the =&6=&. Smaller than the FT-HS, the design of the FT-86 was further refined by Toyota’s ED2 design studio while the hybrid V6 engine was replaced by the new D4-S boxer. Subaru provided the chassis and gearbox for the concept car, basing it on a Impreza. The concept was painted Shoujyouhi Red, based on the backside of a Japanese Macaque.
The following year, Toyota launched their G Sports line of aftermarket accessories, and showed the =&7=& fitted with G Sports performance parts. These included carbon fibre panels, a vented bonnet, rear wing, 19 in (48 cm) wheels, Recaro race seats, and an interior rollcage. The D4-S engine also added a turbocharger.
In 2011, Toyota and Subaru unveiled five near-production concept cars to show their progress with the project. The first, known as the =&8=&, was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011. ED2 refined the design of the initial FT-86, developing new front and rear fascias, and increasing the dimensions of the car by several millimeters.At the same show Subaru unveiled a transparent silhouette concept car to show off the new D4-S boxer engine and display the =&9=&. Scion followed next in April at the New York Auto Show with the =&10=&, co-developed with aftermarket tuner Five Axis.Another semi-transparent Subaru, known as the =&11=&, was shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, followed in November at the Los Angeles International Auto Show by the =&12=&, the first full mock-up of Subaru’s version of the 86 with input from Subaru Tecnica International.
The 86’s engine, known by the Toyota code 4U-GSE and Subaru code FA20, is a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that uses Subaru’s horizontally opposed boxer engine layout. Toyota added their D-4S injection system which uses both direct and port injection. The engine has a 12.5:1 compression ratio and a bore and stroke of 86 mm (3.4 in) that results in 200 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb·ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. As part of the 86’s low-weight design, the car utilizes an aluminum hood, a solid roof, and a trunk as opposed to a hatchback. The boxer engine sits as far back and as low as possible in the engine bay for a weight distribution of 53% in front and 47% in the rear. The low-sitting engine provides a lower center of gravity, allowing the engine to sit lower than the Nissan GTR and just 0.6 inches higher than the Lexus LFA.
The FR-S, 86 and BRZ are offered with two 6-speed transmissions built by Aisin, a manual gearbox and an automatic transmission which is modified from the Lexus IS-F, minus two gears. The automatic uses a traditional wet torque converter design, but its software has been engineered to mimic the response of a dual-clutch gearbox. The automatic transmission uses three different modes: Sport, Snow, and Normal. A torque sensing limited slip differential is standard on most models.
The vehicles are offered with 16 in (41 cm) and 17 in (43 cm) diameter wheels. The wheels are lightweight and wrapped in Michelin Primacy HP tyres with a diameter and width of 215/45. All three cars feature optional ventilated disc brakes at all four corners with two piston-opposed calipers in the front and single caliper design in the rear, and are equipped with MacPherson suspension in the front and double wishbones in the rear.
The 86 was designed around a front-mounted boxer engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, inspired by the AE86. The flat architecture of the boxer engine allows it to be mounted low, dropping the center of gravity down, resulting in sporty handling characteristics. The exterior design of the 86 was inspired by the Toyota 2000GT’s extremely low-to-the-ground profile and long, sleek hood. According to the 86’s designers, “The goal was to create an authentic rear-wheel drive sports car with compelling style, exceptionally balanced performance and handling, flexible utility and surprising MPG.”When asked about the TRD version of the car, the lead engineer Mr. Tada said “There is definitely going to be a more TRD oriented variant down the line. However any of the parts that would be standard on the TRD model will fit on your current Toyota 86 so there is no need to wait.”
