Vehicle Description
Thoroughly authentic, absolutely distinctive, and very fun to drive
make this 1976 Toyota Celica GT Liftback one of the best ways to
join the rapidly growing field of Japanese classics.
These first-generation Celicas are really becoming a hot commodity
right now. They were the right-sized sports car for the era, but
today we are appreciating them for so much more. It starts with how
Toyota took some lessons from the Americans in style. The
aggressive furrowed brow look of the front overhang, wide power
bulge hood, and curvaceous rear fenders seem like Mopar muscle car
attributes. Plus, this special Liftback model has the fastback
profile, integrated rear spoiler, and triple taillight package that
looks inspired from a Mach 1 Mustang. So this Celica instantly
lives up to its GT flair. And more than just a cool appearance,
this one has that extra feel of originality. All the details from
the factory wheels to the rocker stripe are the kind of things that
would get erased over the decades if owners did not respect this
Celica.
Inside is more evidence that Toyota was building this for the
American market. High-back bucket seats and plenty of wood applique
trim make this feel both sporty and premium (again, just like the
Mach 1 Mustang.) And there's also more evidence of good care with
everything from the AM/FM stereo to the heat/defrost sliders still
working. But more than just giving Americans the style and features
they like, this also had an attitude all of its own. This
first-generation Celica was part of the new wave of vehicles that
showed that the Japanese knew how to give their cars a soul. The
grippy steering wheel, crisp stick shift, and a full instrument
panel with a tach as prominent as the speedo instantly could get
your enthusiast heart pumping.
When you lift the hood, the 20R label on the head makes many Toyota
enthusiasts very happy. The R-series motor is where Toyota earned
its nearly bulletproof reputation, and this 2.2-liter is one of the
largest displacements offered. Plus, as you look at all the
original components and decals, this makes for a great
attention-grabbing engine bay. But a car like this was made to be
driven. That's why it has received proper maintenance, including
newer hoses and belts. The overhead cam motor fires up nicely, and
you take full control over this peppy powerplant thanks to the
five-speed manual transmission. The sports-inspired independent
front suspension, trailing arm rear with Panhard bar, telepathic
steering, front disc brakes, and new Toyo tires all come together
to create and outstanding driving experience.
Complete with owner's manual, this is a well-preserved and
value-priced way to enjoy a significant classic that's gaining more
prominence every day. Don't let this one slip away, call today!
