1994 Toyota Celica GT from UK and Ireland - Comments

Third and fourth gear synchomesh on gearbox suddenly became poor at 60,000 miles and involved an expensive gearbox rebuild.

Minor rear suspension components have needed replacement, possibly in part due the rough roads I have to use.

Never really been convinced that the steering and tracking were perfect despite repeated attempts at having this set up.

Much more comfortable than other cars of its class. Very roomy and a capacious boot on those versions which take the space-saver spare wheel.

When driven gently, fuel economy is excellent. When driven exuberantly, economy is still better than expected. For real performance, allow revs to go over 6000rpm. The limiter is around 7400rpm.

Handling is stunning, performance is ferocious at high engine revs, and yet it is a sensible useful hatchback with head-turning looks.

Used ones now quite affordable, but be wary of running and insurance costs of Japanese imports which have different body panels such as the square rear number plate.

Comments are fair enough, but the Japanese import note is plain wrong. Only panel difference is fiberglass surround of rear number plate. Parts have never been an issue with my import. Having personally imported my Celica from Japan where I ran it for three years I can assure you Japanese cars are very well cared for and service history there is generally second to none.

Sorry, but I disagree. I presently own a Nissan 200sx turbo and it is a uk model. I am now seeking a Celica or MR2 as I change my cars regulary.

However, the best thing to do with an import is avoid it at all costs. Many parts DO differ, many insurance companies WILL NOT now insure import models. These are cold facts I am afraid.

I have a japanese import and have had no problems insuring it. In fact as it is my second car I have had to insure it with no no claims. It was still under £600. The only differance between UK spec and import is the size of the car. Import is 25mill longer and 10 mill wider than uk spec. I have even had my windscreen changed with no hastle. Toyota still service them as if a uk model. To insure it you just have to shop around. But the insurers are out there that don't class imports any differently than a uk model.

My imported celica has given me serious trouble in the last six months. Head gasket replaced. Currently in garage with an electrical fault that no one seems to be able to find. Have already replaced ecu to no avail. Is off the road just over a month now. However have to say I wander that if the car wasn't a Japanese import, would my dealer put a bit more effort into finding the current fault.

Must say though that I really like the car despite these setbacks.