Faults:

The power steering hoses crack and cause fluid leaks.

The clutch failed after feeling spongy. Complete replacement shortly before reaching 130,000 km.

Creaking noise in the gearbox when downshifting.

Fluid leaks at engine and transmission gaskets due to aging seals and hoses.

The ABS system sensors are extremely sensitive, activating the anti-lock braking system with even slight pressure on the pedal.

General Comments:

This Celica abandons any half measures and becomes a true coupé with a very welcoming interior, but with significantly less space than the previous version, particularly in the rear seats.

The engine retains the typical character of multi-valve engines, with a somewhat sluggish response at low revs, before climbing briskly to 7,000 rpm. However, the engine's responsiveness is evident in the complete absence of vibrations and jerking, even when pushing the speeds.

This engine is perfectly suited to the gear ratios. They aren't particularly short, but they allow for good performance and very practical everyday use. In city traffic, we can move around the Celica with ease, letting the car recover smoothly and relatively quickly in fourth gear.

The Celica moves with agility on any terrain. Whether on a wide highway, where we can easily maintain cruising speeds of around 180/190 kilometers per hour, the only criticism at this speed is the lightness of the steering, which becomes somewhat sensitive. Otherwise, the Celica takes corners as if on rails.

On the open road, regardless of the asphalt's condition, the Toyota makes us feel like a rally driver. It's an agile car that links curves with ease and provides great driving satisfaction. The reactions are typical of a front-wheel-drive vehicle, with a slight tendency to understeer, which can be neutralized with the steering wheel and accelerator. Traction is excellent, and it's very difficult to make the car lose its composure unless we force the situation with inappropriate acceleration.

The brakes are powerful and resistant to fade, but the anti-lock braking system is very sensitive and engages at the slightest pressure on the pedal. This ABS is effective, but it would be nice if it allowed the driver a bit more input. The gear lever is quick and has a very sporty feel. It's perfectly within reach and encourages you to use it. In short, it's a true sports car.

Just like the exterior, the Celica's interior is completely new compared to the versions from the 70s and 80s. Black predominates inside. The fantastic seats are somewhere between a plush armchair and a racing seat, providing excellent support in corners and making driving a pleasure.

Finding a comfortable driving position is easy, as both the seat and steering wheel are adjustable. All the instruments are within easy reach.

The climate control is operated by a button located to the right of the instrument cluster. The excellent performance of this system is noteworthy, allowing a generous intake of outside air without needing to use fans or the air conditioning system, unless the outside temperature is very high. This is quite rare in aerodynamic cars, but in the Celica, it has been achieved thanks to a small deflector just in front of the windshield.

In short, it was a very attractive car with flawless handling, no insurmountable problems, and the mechanical quality and reliability of an average Japanese car. I really enjoyed driving it.

Faults:

Small parts, tires, alternator, etc.

General Comments:

Great car, was my first. Took all the abuse my buddies and I threw at it and just kept coming back for more.

Very peppy motor, runs out of steam above 5000 RPM.

Would've drove it into the ground if another driver didn't run a stop sign and total it :(