1993 Toyota Celica ST review from North America

Started stopped working at 128,000.

Battery died at 130,000.

Engine mount broken at 132,000.

Radiator starts to leak at 142,000.

Rear right passenger seat belt broken at 135,000.

(I replaced it myself, with an used part).

Trunk strut support is bad since I purchased the car. I just pop up the trunk slowly with some hand lifting. This way you can prevent from damaging the trunk corner.

I really like this car. The design is quite modern, considering that it's made in 1993. The smooth curves of the body panel look really outstanding comparing with cars of the same period. The car looks nicer with spoiler. The paint is not very good. Quite a bit oxidation on the roof, and during the 3 years (2003-2006) I own it, paint on the hood started to get oxidized.

Handling is good. The car is very responsive, accelerates fast (stick shift), and takes corners with good balance. The steering wheel is very smooth, drives easily with one hand.

Seating position is low, comparing with Corolla or Camry. But it's easy to find a comfortable position. Seats on the back is also very comfortable, but it can only sit 2 people on the back.

The engine (1.6L) has enough power on highway, but it does not keep up the speed even on slight uphill slope. The speed would drop from 65 to 55MPH, even when I floor the pedal. At that speed, you cannot downshift, so I feel a bit disappointed on this issue.

The dash display, console controls are all well positioned, easy to see and use.