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Toyota - Celica - ZR coupe

Toyota Celica (Celica TA22 Coupe (Mk1))

Celica TA22 Coupe (Mk1)

Make: Toyota

Model: Celica

Released: Jan 1970

Discontinued: Jun 1976

Toyota logo1 Nov 1971

By THE GOAUTO TEAM

Toyota’s take on the 1968 Ford Capri concept debuted in Japan in December 1970 – a year before Australia – as the Celica.

It was named after Sarina the dragon-riding witch (hence the dragon logo) and based on the sub-Corona Carina small car.

Despite its sporty pretensions, the Celica’s steering, handling and ride qualities were disappointingly mundane, but at least the reliability trade-off helped.

Performance was sprightly enough though thanks to a lively 76kW 1.6-litre carburettor four-cylinder engine (called 2T) mated to either a five-speed manual or three-speed auto gearbox.

With sassy styling, comfy 2+2 seating, a practical boot and generous equipment levels, the Celica’s sales star soared.

In 1975 the TA23-series Celica replaced it. Although visually virtually identical, it featured a slightly longer wheelbase (visible between the front wheels and doors), a new nose, wider chassis and improved front suspension.

Toyota sold 2036 of this model from 1971 to 1976.

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