Toyota isn't an automobile business that will bring many enthusiasts. And yet the Celica did not become an actual performance auto until the late 80's AllTrac Turbo version, which only lasted till 1993. Seven years later, the Celica became the auto you see here.

It served as Toyota's functionality ring car before Celica went away (for good?) after 2005. The 2013 Scion FR-S (Scion is a Toyota brand, recall) is Toyota's first chance at a truly sporty car in quite a while, a little, rearwheel drive coupe which can be referred to as a companion piece to the Celica.

The 2000 Celica was assembled on a modified Corolla system. Transmission options were five - and sixspeed guides in GT and GT - S models, respectively, along with a fourspeed auto was the alternative. Automated GT-S versions got a manual-shift function.

Its additional electricity came largely at high revs; driven sedately, its efficiency benefit was less apparent, as the GT - S was stronger.

If you are pulled to the Celica more for its looks than functionality, the GT will probably serve your functions nicely; the 1.8L engine is a powerful performer even if its power is routed via the Corolla's tall gearing, and also the Celica's shorter gears just highlight its power.

Not proven entirely hassle free. has while Consumer Reports (CR) lists a used Celica like a great bet, it. Note this issue doesn't seem to change the less advanced VVTi found in nonGT-S Celicas.

Here's another great how-to for changing the VVTL-i raise bolts yourself.

Here's another helpful thread from NewCelica.org on changing the oil-control valves (OCV) which make the variable valve timing systems within the Celica's engines work.

CR also notes Celica transmission difficulties, mentioning "early clutch replacement" as the chief generator of complaints. I read that as an indictment of competitive drivers over any genuine mechanical defect. Celica forums to the internet had nothing complete to provide, however, I did find some of threads about manual transmissions that will not remain in equipment.

The one-piece of advice I'd give any Celica shopper is really to have a future buy examined by a trustworthy mechanic. Inexpensive sports cars in this way are ready for hooliganism and driving habits that may drastically shorten the lifetime of the car's mechanicals.

Consumer Reports provides Celica its above-average reliability rating; TrueDelta.com does not provide any reliability information.

Being a sporty car, it will not come as a shock to many the Celica uses more gas compared to the Corolla it relies upon, however the figures are commendable regardless of the Celica's shorter gearing and more aggressive engine tuning. According to model-year and transmission option, Natural Resources Canada anticipated a Celica GT to work with a bit over 8.5 L/100 km in the city and about 6.5 L/100 km to the highway.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety did not crash-test the Celica.

Just such as the Corolla it relies on, the Celica appears to exhibit Toyota's commonly powerful reliability. Get any auto examined by a mechanic, and inquire or try to find evidence the variable valve timing lift bolts are replaced, in case you are searching for a GT - S version.