The original Celica of the mid-1970s started as a sort of mini-Mustang in concept and looks, but it wasn't long before it began to develop an identity of its own. Originally a rear-drive car, the fourth-generation Celica, based on Camry components, became front-drive, with a very-high-performance, and expensive, All-Trac AWD turbo version available in small numbers. Like the original car, there were fastback and notchback versions, and a convertible was later added.
Competitors include such stylish coupes as the Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6, Nissan 240SX, and the Eagle Talon/Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Year-to-year changes[]
1993[]
Up to this model year, the Celica had very few performance options, and shifted more toward a high-style image.
1994[]
The sixth generation of the Celica, an all-new model, is introduced, and further focuses style rather than performance. The ST is the 1.8-liter base model, the GT the upscale 2.2-liter version, both available as either hatchbacks or coupes. To get true high performance, the buyer has to turn to Toyota's Supra or MR2 turbo.
1995[]
The '95 models are basically carry-over.
The latest version of the convertible has been introduced on the GT platform. The vehicle is partly assembled in Japan, then shipped to American Sunroof Corp. in California, where the metal roof is replaced by a power-operated fabric top with a heated-glass rear window. All Celicas have both driver's- and passenger's-side airbags as standard. Options include automatic transmission, ABS, cruise control stereo upgrades and leather upholstery.
1996[]
As the Toyota Celica heads into the 1996 model year, it would be a quieter car. Increased use of sound-deadening materials under the hood helps to suppress engine noise. All models receive a new seat fabric design. The Leather Package is now a free-standing option, except on ST models. Mildly revamped front and rear fascias will appear on all models, and the liftback gets a redesigned optional rear spoiler. On all models save the convertible, contoured rocker panels are available as an option. Alloy wheels are available on the ST, and the wheel covers for the base models have been redesigned.
The front-wheel-drive Celica relies on two basic powerplants, which also delineate pecking order. All ST models are equipped with the 1.8-liter dohc engine originally developed for the Corolla. The ST is available as a coupe or hatchback. The GT contingent includes coupe, hatchback and convertible body styles—all of which are powered by the same rugged 2.2-liter dohc Four used in the Camry. All Celicas are equipped with dual airbags and power steering, and ABS is optional on all models.
Though the Convertible is built in Japan, the final construction of the retractable top is completed at American Sunroof in Southern California. The top operates electrically, allowing for manual operation in an emergency. The backlite is glass, with an electric defroster, and the folded top gets covered by a hardshell boot.
Retail prices[]
As of December 27, 1993:
- $16,168 (1994 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Coupe)
- $16,508 (1994 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Liftback)
- $18,428 (1994 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Coupe)
- $18,898 (1994 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Liftback)
As of August 26, 1994:
- $16,888 (1995 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Coupe)
- $17,238 (1995 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Liftback)
- $19,288 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Coupe)
- $19,778 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Liftback)
- $23,998 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Convertible)
As of January 26, 1995:
- $17,658 (1995 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Coupe)
- $18,018 (1995 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Liftback)
- $20,168 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Coupe)
- $20,678 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Liftback)
- $24,878 (1995 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Convertible)
As of September 25, 1995:
- $16,958 (1996 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Coupe)
- $17,318 (1996 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Liftback)
- $19,468 (1996 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Coupe)
- $19,978 (1996 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Liftback)
- $24,178 (1996 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Convertible)
As of July 29, 1996:
- $17,548 (1997 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Coupe)
- $17,908 (1997 Toyota Celica ST 2DR Liftback)
- $20,598 (1997 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Liftback)
- $24,798 (1997 Toyota Celica GT 2DR Convertible)
Gallery[]
