1977 Toyota Celica GT 2000 review from Australia and New Zealand
"A very quick and rare classic with the pulling power of 140 horses."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Sills under doors required steel plates to be welded, which cost about $200 NZ.
General comments?
This car was purchased as a toy project. The model was a 2 door lift-back which I later found out were quite rare in NZ. The engine had just been reconditioned and came with twin Mukini carbs when I bought it. The engine was an 18RG.
In standard form this car was reasonably quick pulling somewhere between 140-145BHP and only weighing ~950kg.
Being 6"2 I found the 'cockpit' a bit small, however the drivers seat was very comfortable and all instrumentation within easy reach.
When I sold the car I had it running with hardened springs and at 184BHP with modifications to the exhaust, extractors and head.
I would recommend this car to any driver looking for a car that is bullet-proof and has outstanding accelaration for its year. This engine is particularly easy to modify. If I could get my hands on one, I would definitely buy another.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1994 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1997 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 DOHC 18RG Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 115000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 175000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Hillman Avenger |
| Date of Entry | 11th August, 2003 |