1976 | Toyota Celica GT

Toyota Celica GT TA23 – Japan’s Answer to the European Sports Coupés

🇬🇧 English

There are classics – and then there are legends. The first-generation Toyota Celica belongs firmly to the latter. While Europe was still torn between the Capri and the Manta, Toyota launched the Celica TA23 in 1976 – a sleek and spirited coupé that didn’t just look different, but also sounded, drove, and even smelled different.

Engine – Yamaha inside
Under the hood? No ordinary inline-four. It’s a 1.6-litre DOHC Twin Cam engine with twin Solex carburettors, developed with Yamaha’s engineering expertise – yes, the same Yamaha famous for pianos and motorcycles, who also knew how to craft a cylinder head like a symphony instrument. The cross-flow head, the sporty camshafts, and that unmistakable sound make one thing clear: this GT loves to rev.

And the best part? This is the matching-number engine – no swapped unit, no compromises.

Mechanics – Fully overhauled and ready to go
A classic is only as good as its condition. This Celica has been lovingly maintained and meticulously serviced:
✅ Engine rebuilt
✅ Brakes serviced
✅ Steering system refurbished
✅ Front and rear axles overhauled
✅ Full service in June 2025

That means: no backlog, no nasty surprises – just get in and head for your next classic rally weekend.

Interior – A time capsule
The cabin is immaculate and complete. In an era when most Celicas were turned into drift toys or parts donors, this one kept its soul. Seats, dashboard, instruments – all original, all beautiful. No carbon wrap, no LED gimmicks – just pure 1970s design that looks fantastic again today.

Story – Three owners, no secrets
I am the third owner of this car. Not a collector who hides it away, but an enthusiast who drives and maintains it. The Celica lives – and it wants to be driven.

Located in Greece, the car has all legal documents for road use and can be immediately registered or exported.

Conclusion – Not a toy, but a piece of history
The TA23 GT is more than a stylish coupé. It’s Japan’s take on sporty elegance – built in an era when Toyota still dared to dream. A Celica isn’t just a collector’s item; it’s a conversation starter, a driver’s delight, and a solid investment.