May 8, 2024

The 7th generation Toyota Celica is an underappreciated and frequently overlooked coupe from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The model receives a lot of misplaced hate from bandwagon car enthusiasts. 

With aggressively sleek body lines and a sharp front end, the Celica has a rich rally history from the previous generation through the GT-Four variant. Co-Developed with Yamaha, this front wheel drive (FWD) coupe was paired with two different engines. The GT trim has a 1zz-FE with 140 hp (the FE stands for fuel efficiency) and the GT-S has a 2zz-GE with 180 hp and a dual cam setup with a top speed of 150 mph from the factory.

As one of the most affordable coupes you can get on the market, the potential cost savings continue into maintenance and ownership costs. With a simple setup and spacious engine bays, Celica engines are a great place to start learning about cars. For owners looking to modify their Celica, the model’s aftermarket support is bountiful, particularly in the performance and cosmetics divisions. The ease of working on this car is undervalued by car enthusiasts. 

So how does the Celica feel to drive? It’s responsive. Toyota put a lot of work into the steering. They made the car incredibly light (2,600 lbs) and gave it a longer wheelbase, both of which improve handling (and make it a great first track car). A close-ratio six-speed gearbox also helps get everything out of the car, maximizing performance. The Celica is truly a driver’s car and it is a shame that Toyota was forced to discontinue in the midst of the rising popularity of economy cars and SUVs. 

It’s not all good, however. While the Celica is an incredible car at face value it still comes with some caveats. The model is known for high oil consumption caused by worn piston rings or valve seals. General interior wear is rather common as Toyota used cheaper trim materials in the production process. Suspension noise is also a regular complaint from Celica owners as worn out bushings or other small components will start becoming loud or certain smaller electrical issues such as windows, door locks or dashboard lights go out. Fortunately, these problems can be sidestepped by a simple sound system.

While none of these issues are a big deal and most are considered very easy fixes, some drivers have also reported transmission issues. The transmission will become “jolty and harsh” although this mainly happens with automatics (and if you’re planning on doing some spirited mountain driving, manual is your best option anyway). As always, with a properly maintained car many of these issues can be mitigated or avoided completely.

Bottom line: This is a great car that I would consider purchasing for the right price. Good on gas and cheap to fix and maintain, it’s a great first car for anyone looking for something other than a Corolla.