2000 Toyota Celica VVTL-i review from Australia and New Zealand

Drivers seat showing wear on bolster. Likewise some parts of the carpet also showing fast wear given modest mileage.

Despite the above, nothing has actually gone wrong with it - runs like clock work.

This is the first sports coupe I have owned and have to say am really enjoying it.

The driving position is great - you feel as if you are part of the car and the seating is very comfortable.

Have to say I'm very impressed with the engine. Despite some people saying it lacks low down torque I don't agree. Remember it's only a (short stroked) 1.8 so its never going to have stump pulling low down grunt. Compared with a non VVT engine the flat torque curve is very noticeable.

Top end power once its in 'high lift' can only be described in one word - violent!. Having said that, addictive also comes to mind. Sound above 6,000 rpm is also fantastic, especially when you run it to the 8,350rpm limiter and snatch the next gear.

While the engine is great the handling is even better. I've shod mine with 205/50 R16 Goodyear Eagle F1s. They wear very well with amazing grip. I've been caught out a few times on some tightening blind bends and I'm sure they have saved my bacon.

I have driven SS Commodores and a Impreza WRX STi. The STi is very quick, the Celica just quick, but I think actually more fun to drive - there is something about the responsiveness of a normally aspirated engine screaming its lungs out that is very satisfying.

Overall it's a great car and I'm very pleased with it. I'm curious though to see how it compares to an Interga Type R. May need to take one for a test drive.