When you think of Toyota, reliability and innovation probably come to mind first. However, Toyota’s contributions to the world of sports cars are equally noteworthy, spanning several decades and encompassing a variety of iconic models. These old Toyota sports cars are more than just vehicles; they’re a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess and a celebration of automotive history. From sleek designs and powerful engines to their roles in pop culture and motorsports, these classic Toyota sports cars have earned a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. Join us as we take a nostalgic ride through some of Toyota’s most memorable sports cars from the past.
#1 Toyota 2000GT (1967-1970)
A Game-Changer in Japanese Automaking
First up, we have the Toyota 2000GT, often hailed as Japan’s first supercar. This beauty didn’t just showcase Toyota’s engineering prowess; it helped change the perception of Japanese cars globally.
Features
Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-liter inline-six engine pumping out 150 horsepower. Not too shabby for a car from the ’60s! Its sleek, aerodynamic body features a long hood and a short rear deck, giving it that classic sports car silhouette. Thanks to advanced suspension and lightweight construction, the 2000GT was a dream to drive.
Interesting Facts
Did you know that James Bond himself drove a Toyota 2000GT? That’s right! This car gained fame from its appearance in the James Bond film “You Only Live Twice.” And get this—only 351 units were ever produced, making it a rare gem that’s highly sought after by collectors today.
Historical Significance
Picture this—it’s the late ’60s, and Toyota unveils a car that takes the world by storm. The 2000GT is a true marvel of its time, and it only gets more impressive from here.
#2 Toyota Supra MK4 (1993-2002)
90s Icon and Tuning Legend
Next, let’s talk about the Toyota Supra MK4. If you were into cars in the ’90s, this was the poster car on your wall. Known for its incredible performance and tuning potential, the MK4 Supra is nothing short of legendary.
A Symbol of Power
The fourth-generation Supra took the automotive world by storm, especially with its MK4 variant. It became a symbol of speed and power, and it’s still revered today.
Turbocharged Brilliance
This beast is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, famously known as the 2JZ-GTE, which churns out up to 320 horsepower. Its aggressive styling, complete with a large rear wing and distinctive headlights, made it an instant icon. The Supra’s balance, rear-wheel drive, and impressive acceleration made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Fast and Furious Fame
The Supra MK4 became a pop culture icon, thanks to its starring role in the “Fast and Furious” franchise. Remember Paul Walker’s unforgettable orange Supra? That’s the one! The robust 2JZ engine under its hood has also earned a reputation as one of the best engines for tuning, capable of handling ridiculous amounts of power.
#3 Toyota Celica GT-Four (1986-1999)
Rally-Bred Performance
Moving on, we have the Toyota Celica GT-Four—a car born from Toyota’s rich motorsport heritage. This rally-bred sports car showcased the brand’s prowess in competitive racing.
Dominating the Rally Scene
The Celica GT-Four made a significant impact in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where it demonstrated Toyota’s engineering excellence and competitive spirit.
Turbocharged Powerhouse
At its heart is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing up to 252 horsepower in the ST205 variant. Its aggressive rally-inspired styling, with a functional hood scoop and rear spoiler, made it stand out. The all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension provided excellent handling and traction.
Champion of the Dirt
The Celica GT-Four’s rally heritage includes notable victories in the WRC, cementing its status as a performance legend. It’s a car that not only performed on the streets but also dominated on dirt tracks and snowy trails.
#4 Toyota MR2 (1984-2007)
Mid-Engine Marvel
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car that offered a unique driving experience, setting it apart from its contemporaries.
Engineering Innovation
The MR2 was Toyota’s first mass-produced mid-engine car, designed to deliver a sports car experience at an affordable price.
Lightweight and Agile
Depending on the generation, the MR2 featured various engines, including a supercharged 1.6-liter inline-four and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. Its compact and lightweight design, along with a distinctive wedge shape, made it a real head-turner. The mid-engine layout and balanced weight distribution provided exceptional handling and driving dynamics.
The “Poor Man’s Ferrari”
The MR2 was often referred to as a “poor man’s Ferrari” due to its mid-engine layout and sporty performance. It even garnered a fan base among sports car enthusiasts for its balance and agility. Fun fact: the name “MR2” stands for “Midship Runabout 2-seater,” emphasizing its mid-engine design and sporty intent.
#5 Toyota AE86 (1983-1987)
The Drift King
Last but definitely not least, we have the Toyota AE86, also known as the Hachiroku. This lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe became a legend in the drifting and motorsport communities.
Cult Classic
The AE86 played a pivotal role in car culture, particularly in Japan, where it became synonymous with drifting and grassroots racing.
Lightweight Power
It’s powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four engine (4A-GE), producing around 130 horsepower. Its design is simple yet sporty, focusing on lightweight construction. The exceptional balance and handling of the AE86 made it a favorite for drifting.
Initial D Fame
The AE86 gained a cult following due to its role in the anime and manga series “Initial D,” where it was driven by the protagonist, Takumi Fujiwara. This car’s fame in popular culture only added to its allure, making it a timeless classic. It’s also interesting to note that the AE86 was a staple in competitive drifting events, often seen tearing up the tracks with its agile moves.
#6 Toyota Corolla Levin AE92 (1987-1991)
The Underestimated Performer
The Toyota Corolla Levin AE92 is often overshadowed by its AE86 predecessor, but it deserves its own spotlight for its impressive performance and handling.
A Hidden Gem
The AE92 may not be as famous as the AE86, but it brought significant improvements in power and technology, making it a beloved choice for enthusiasts.
Power and Precision
Under the hood, the AE92 featured a 1.6-liter inline-four engine (4A-GE), producing around 140 horsepower. Its lightweight construction and refined suspension setup provided exceptional handling and driving pleasure.
Club Racing Favorite
The AE92 gained popularity in club racing circuits due to its balance and reliability. It might not have the same cult status as the AE86, but it’s a car that many drivers still appreciate for its performance capabilities.
#7 Toyota Soarer (1981-2005)
Luxury Meets Performance
The Toyota Soarer is a luxurious grand tourer that combined comfort with impressive performance, making it a unique entry in Toyota’s sports car lineup.
A Blend of Comfort and Speed
Introduced in the early ’80s, the Soarer offered a luxurious interior paired with powerful engines, making it a favorite among those who wanted both comfort and speed.
Powerful and Elegant
The Soarer came with various engine options over its production run, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and a 4.0-liter V8. Its sophisticated design and advanced features made it a standout.
Japanese Muscle
The Soarer was known as the Lexus SC in markets outside Japan, showcasing Toyota’s ability to produce high-performance luxury vehicles. It was also popular in the Japanese drift scene, further cementing its status as a performance icon.
#8 Toyota Celica Supra (1978-1986)
The Early Supra
Before the Supra became a standalone model, it was introduced as the Toyota Celica Supra. This early version laid the groundwork for the legendary Supra lineage.
Bridging Two Legends
The Celica Supra was essentially a Celica with a longer wheelbase and a more powerful engine, bridging the gap between the Celica and the later Supras.
Performance and Style
Powered by a range of inline-six engines, the Celica Supra offered up to 145 horsepower. Its stylish design and enhanced performance features made it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
Rising Star
The Celica Supra made a name for itself in both street racing and track events. Its balanced handling and reliable performance helped it gain a loyal following, setting the stage for the iconic Supras that followed.
