Celica T Sport
Discussion
Whilst my Clio 182 was a great little daily driver after 6 months ownership I felt that i had had enough, it was just a little too small and noisy
Sold it within 3 days of advertising it and the search was on for a replacement. Originally wanted a Volvo C70 convertible but realised the economy was not going to be significantly better than my Jag S Type R - what I wanted really was something fun, reliable, reasonably economical and with a degree of comfort
After much head scratching and seeing a couple of threads on here I started looking at Celica T Sports - had fond memories of thrashing a 140 version around a test track in Vienna for weeks on end a few years ago so knew it would be a decent drive
Celica values seem to be all over the place at the moment and there are very few low mileage cars around so decided to set mileage aside and look for a totally, straight, FSH, low owner car
Picking this up tomorrow, 2 ownwers from new, every service receipt, lowered on Toyota TT springs, all MOTs, full Toyota history, recent brakes and new Bridgestones (good tyres on a n older car is always a good sign of a well maintained car)
Sold it within 3 days of advertising it and the search was on for a replacement. Originally wanted a Volvo C70 convertible but realised the economy was not going to be significantly better than my Jag S Type R - what I wanted really was something fun, reliable, reasonably economical and with a degree of comfort
After much head scratching and seeing a couple of threads on here I started looking at Celica T Sports - had fond memories of thrashing a 140 version around a test track in Vienna for weeks on end a few years ago so knew it would be a decent drive
Celica values seem to be all over the place at the moment and there are very few low mileage cars around so decided to set mileage aside and look for a totally, straight, FSH, low owner car
Picking this up tomorrow, 2 ownwers from new, every service receipt, lowered on Toyota TT springs, all MOTs, full Toyota history, recent brakes and new Bridgestones (good tyres on a n older car is always a good sign of a well maintained car)
wilbo83 said:
Do you mind me asking how much you paid? I am looking for one as a stop gap (had one a few years back). That looks a decent example from the pics
£2350 from a dealer - more than happy with the price - not the cheapest around but can't see the point of buying one cheaper and then having to spend money on putting things right - much rather buy a good car in the first placeI did notice that Celica prices seem to be all over the place, late low mileage cars still commanding £6k plus
Riknos said:
And likewise when I was looking a couple of months ago, plenty of 190's in not bad condition going for £1k ish. And one for £650 needing a bit but not too much work! Really are all over the place.
I was just nervous about shopping at the bottom end of the price scale. I always try and buy cars with a really good history that I can continue - as I like to change every 6-12 months it makes them a lot easier to sell on - the last four cars I have sold I've lost a total of £200 on in terms of price sold vs. price bought at
hope you're enjoying it!Collected today and was a pleasure to deal with a small specialist business who are true petrolheads
Car is exactly as described, fully stamped book by Toyota with every accompanying invoice, even things like wiper blades and tyres fitted by Toyota
Car drives great and the kick at 6000rpm is entertaining
Makes you realise how fat and bloated cars have become, this feels very alive, everything is so light and precise, surprisingly I found it more enjoyable to drive hard across country than my Clio 182
Couple of quick pics grabbed this evening
Car is exactly as described, fully stamped book by Toyota with every accompanying invoice, even things like wiper blades and tyres fitted by Toyota
Car drives great and the kick at 6000rpm is entertaining
Makes you realise how fat and bloated cars have become, this feels very alive, everything is so light and precise, surprisingly I found it more enjoyable to drive hard across country than my Clio 182
Couple of quick pics grabbed this evening
Work has commenced - I'm totally OCD about my cars condition so couldn't resist the temptation to start
First job was the headlights, passenger side was replaced several years ago so was not too bad, drivers side after 13 years and 116k miles was very very tired, pitted to hell and yellowed
Wet sanded and use of Megs Headlight Restoration kit got them both looking like new
Before
After
Decided to move on to the engine bay, honest is how I'd describe it - nothing missing apart from a few minor clips that will be ordered tomorrow but clearly never been shown any love. Auto Finesse Verso diluted 1:2 and plastics dressed with 303 has brought it up better than I expected
Before
After
Got the week after next off so will be continuing the work - full interior clean and paint correction with a bit of luck as well as starting the wheel refirb - nbot sure whether to go silver or graphite
First job was the headlights, passenger side was replaced several years ago so was not too bad, drivers side after 13 years and 116k miles was very very tired, pitted to hell and yellowed
Wet sanded and use of Megs Headlight Restoration kit got them both looking like new
Before
After
Decided to move on to the engine bay, honest is how I'd describe it - nothing missing apart from a few minor clips that will be ordered tomorrow but clearly never been shown any love. Auto Finesse Verso diluted 1:2 and plastics dressed with 303 has brought it up better than I expected
Before
After
Got the week after next off so will be continuing the work - full interior clean and paint correction with a bit of luck as well as starting the wheel refirb - nbot sure whether to go silver or graphite
After collecting the Celica on Saturday I have been using it for its intended purpose - general duties so thought now is a good a time as any to note my initial thoughts
Firstly, whilst the doors do not shut with the solidity of a bank vault its clearly well made - certainly does not look or feel like its done 116k miles
Electrically everything is in perfect working order, even the climate blows ice cold
Few rattles that need sorting - rear parcel shelf and exhaust heat shield - nothing in comparison to the Clio at all
Leather is in great condition and only has a minor patch of scuffing on the drivers backrest bolster which has already been addressed
Main reason I bought the car was to sample first hand a Japaneses sporty coupe with an engine that needs to be worked hard so how it drives was important to me
Engine - absolutely the VVTL-i lump needs revving - the point at which the valve timing and lift change over (the lift being the main difference between 140 and 190bhp models) is at about 6200rpm and it certainly brings a smile to the face. Just like VTEC lumps though, its perfectly tractable and enjoyable below this phase
Gearbox - 6 speed box is an absolute delight, very short throw, precise and the clutch is wonderfully light after the Clio
Steering - typically Japanese thin rimmed wheel but again, its a delight, there is an immediacy to the response that is impossible to deliver by the latest electric systems and the responsiveness is clearly also helped by the low weight (1145kg - over 100kg lighter than the allegedly lightweight GT86), this is a car you can aim at a corner and it will go precisely where you point it
Ride / handling - again, really benefits from the low weight, grips extremely well, not got close to feeling the VSC spoil the fun and the ride whilst firm is a lot less crashy than the Clio
Overall I'm really impressed, I was initially a little concerned by the mileage but the combination of Toyota durability and a good history means it wears its miles incredibly well, feels at least as solid as my E36 328i Sport felt at similar miles and a lot more solid than the Boxster did at 80k
Its got all the fun of the Clio but is a little more sophisticated in the way it does things and certainly feels like a higher quality product
Think I may be keeping this one for a while
Firstly, whilst the doors do not shut with the solidity of a bank vault its clearly well made - certainly does not look or feel like its done 116k miles
Electrically everything is in perfect working order, even the climate blows ice cold
Few rattles that need sorting - rear parcel shelf and exhaust heat shield - nothing in comparison to the Clio at all
Leather is in great condition and only has a minor patch of scuffing on the drivers backrest bolster which has already been addressed
Main reason I bought the car was to sample first hand a Japaneses sporty coupe with an engine that needs to be worked hard so how it drives was important to me
Engine - absolutely the VVTL-i lump needs revving - the point at which the valve timing and lift change over (the lift being the main difference between 140 and 190bhp models) is at about 6200rpm and it certainly brings a smile to the face. Just like VTEC lumps though, its perfectly tractable and enjoyable below this phase
Gearbox - 6 speed box is an absolute delight, very short throw, precise and the clutch is wonderfully light after the Clio
Steering - typically Japanese thin rimmed wheel but again, its a delight, there is an immediacy to the response that is impossible to deliver by the latest electric systems and the responsiveness is clearly also helped by the low weight (1145kg - over 100kg lighter than the allegedly lightweight GT86), this is a car you can aim at a corner and it will go precisely where you point it
Ride / handling - again, really benefits from the low weight, grips extremely well, not got close to feeling the VSC spoil the fun and the ride whilst firm is a lot less crashy than the Clio
Overall I'm really impressed, I was initially a little concerned by the mileage but the combination of Toyota durability and a good history means it wears its miles incredibly well, feels at least as solid as my E36 328i Sport felt at similar miles and a lot more solid than the Boxster did at 80k
Its got all the fun of the Clio but is a little more sophisticated in the way it does things and certainly feels like a higher quality product
Think I may be keeping this one for a while
Edited by Andy665 on Thursday 21st May 11:45
BigTom85 said:
Looks great!
I've been looking out for a good condition sensibly priced 190 for a while locally, nothing.
The styling has improved with age on these, and I can't think of anything else that suits my needs better.
Whats the milage on this one if you don't mind me asking?
It will look better when spacers are fitted, wheels refurbished and I have machine polished itI've been looking out for a good condition sensibly priced 190 for a while locally, nothing.
The styling has improved with age on these, and I can't think of anything else that suits my needs better.
Whats the milage on this one if you don't mind me asking?
Just under 117k on this one
I enjoyed my Clio 182 a lot but this does everything that could do but a little better - I think they are a sadly overlooked and underrated car
With what I have planned for the Celica I'll have no time
Stonechips sorted on bonnet
Full machine polish + wax / sealant (not sure which yet)
Wheel refurb
Cleaning of all inner arches, cleaning of visible suspension parts etc
All seats out and interior deep cleaned
Least I do not have to go out for supplies
Stonechips sorted on bonnet
Full machine polish + wax / sealant (not sure which yet)
Wheel refurb
Cleaning of all inner arches, cleaning of visible suspension parts etc
All seats out and interior deep cleaned
Least I do not have to go out for supplies
morgan-3rhfn said:
Look's good, I echo your thoughts on your review having just came from 3x 172 cups in a row and a Megane r26 in between as my track/weekend toys. I picked up my 75,000 T-sport in the same colour just over a week ago although it's a pre facelift and its going through a freshen up similar to yours. Mechanics first and then the shiny bits... I'm also OCD with my cars.
Mine was MOT'd before collection and it feels very taut and no strange noises so mechanically / suspension wise I'm leaving it as is for the time being.Cleaned all the underside at the weekend and sprayed with Hammerite smooth black, will be coated with Bilt Hamber anti corrosion spray was too - if its good enough for oil rigs its good enough for underneath a car
From this
To this - not perfect but an improvement and its protected
morgan-3rhfn said:
I'm interested to know where you found the centre caps having searched for a week now and came up with nothing.
Stumbled across them on the Celica Club - £15 delivered, could not quite believe my luck, still in sealed bags - bought them before I had found the carmorgan-3rhfn said:
Also to answer your question I would go for a gunmetal type colour on the wheels, mine has similar and they will be getting redone when the mechanics are up to spec.
They look good in a dark colour but I found 4 GT Pro bright silver aerosols in the garage from my Jag wheel refurb so decided to stick with thatmorgan-3rhfn said:
Lastly, how are you finding the cabin noise compared to the Clio's? Specifically from the rear? I'll hold judgement until my new tyres are on but I can see me replacing both rear wheel bearings to quieten things down. There's no signs of wear or roughness but they just sound quite droney which I have read is common.
Cabin noise is a bit of an issue - I have ordered 40 sheets of sound deadening material to line the boot floor, rear quarter panels, doors and under the rear seats with - consequence of the lightweight build I suppose, plus its not exactly long gearedMg cup - some very good points
The GT Pro paint is superb, the nozzles ensure no drips or splatter at all, not the cheapest but specially formulated for wheels, I get mine from twgsports off eBay, highly recommended
I'm taking off the door cards and rear trim panels and lining with sound deadening, only way to ensure any reduction in road noise really
The arches and have been painted with smooth Hammerite - cavities injected with Bolt Humber Dynax S50 and the arches / underside will be coated with Bolt Humber Dynax UB - fantastic products that I have used for years, gives peace of mind that corrosion will be pretty much a non issue - obviously without a complete stripdown you can't reach everywhere but 80-90% coverage is better than nothing
The GT Pro paint is superb, the nozzles ensure no drips or splatter at all, not the cheapest but specially formulated for wheels, I get mine from twgsports off eBay, highly recommended
I'm taking off the door cards and rear trim panels and lining with sound deadening, only way to ensure any reduction in road noise really
The arches and have been painted with smooth Hammerite - cavities injected with Bolt Humber Dynax S50 and the arches / underside will be coated with Bolt Humber Dynax UB - fantastic products that I have used for years, gives peace of mind that corrosion will be pretty much a non issue - obviously without a complete stripdown you can't reach everywhere but 80-90% coverage is better than nothing
Doing the basics on the car first - mechanically she is in great order and nothing obvious needs doing at the moment so been concentrating on the basics
All rear trim panels removed (cabin and boot) and thoroughly cleaned - sound deadening applied before re-fitting
All carpets shampooed - car now smells like new
Some minor cosmetic surface corrosion on inner front wings rubbed down, primed and repainted
Rocker sprayed satin black in anticipation of my carbon fibre coilpack cover and alloy oil filler cap arriving this week
Full clay mitt session in advance of a full machine polish
Removal of all tar spots, satisfying job as a lot of what i thought were marks turned out only to be tar
Leather cleaned and conditioned again - now looks like new - might not be the greatest quality leather but at least its tough
Still continuing the alloy wheel refurbishment, currently on the second rim - they are all pretty badly marked so there is lots of filling, priming, rubbing down, filling again going on before paint gets applied - fortunately its a job that can be fitted in and around a pretty hectic work schedule with Lexus at the moment
I think she is wearing the 117k miles pretty well
All rear trim panels removed (cabin and boot) and thoroughly cleaned - sound deadening applied before re-fitting
All carpets shampooed - car now smells like new
Some minor cosmetic surface corrosion on inner front wings rubbed down, primed and repainted
Rocker sprayed satin black in anticipation of my carbon fibre coilpack cover and alloy oil filler cap arriving this week
Full clay mitt session in advance of a full machine polish
Removal of all tar spots, satisfying job as a lot of what i thought were marks turned out only to be tar
Leather cleaned and conditioned again - now looks like new - might not be the greatest quality leather but at least its tough
Still continuing the alloy wheel refurbishment, currently on the second rim - they are all pretty badly marked so there is lots of filling, priming, rubbing down, filling again going on before paint gets applied - fortunately its a job that can be fitted in and around a pretty hectic work schedule with Lexus at the moment
I think she is wearing the 117k miles pretty well
Edited by Andy665 on Monday 8th June 10:53
New underbonnet plastic clips fitted today together with an alloy oil filler cap and a carbon fibre coilpack cover that along with the satin black painted rocker cover really tidies up the engine bay - happy with the improvement in the 3 weeks since purchase
Nearly bought a Lotus stamped coilpack cover - Toyota never made them but my OCD would not have coped with Lotus being upside down - fortunately this came up for sale at a reasonable price
from this
To this
To this
Nearly bought a Lotus stamped coilpack cover - Toyota never made them but my OCD would not have coped with Lotus being upside down - fortunately this came up for sale at a reasonable price
from this
To this
To this
Edited by Andy665 on Wednesday 10th June 14:10
Edited by Andy665 on Wednesday 10th June 15:49
I'm not really the most knowledgeable about the engines but I am spending the weekend in Vienna with Toyota Europes most highly qualified technician so I will ask him
I do know the early 140 engines had oil supply issues but that was quickly resolved
There are enough 100k+ mile 140's and 190's out there to suggest that properly maintained they will go on for a long long time - certainly my 190 with 177k on the clock feels tight as a drum, doesn't use oil or water and still feels like its got most of its power intact
Only done 1 motorway run so far but it saw in excess of 40mpg
I do know the early 140 engines had oil supply issues but that was quickly resolved
There are enough 100k+ mile 140's and 190's out there to suggest that properly maintained they will go on for a long long time - certainly my 190 with 177k on the clock feels tight as a drum, doesn't use oil or water and still feels like its got most of its power intact
Only done 1 motorway run so far but it saw in excess of 40mpg
paulmaurice99 said:
Thanks Andy, err yes, Toyota Europe's most highly qualified technician will do nicely! 
That's good consumption for a 190, good good (plotting). I can live without the extra performance, but the 190s tend to be better equipped, and of course good to widen the net when looking.
Much appreciated, enjoy Vienna!
I did briefly consider a 140 but thought that I would always miss the extra performance - 190's are not a lot more money to buy, for me no more expensive to insure, maintenance is the same, economy similar.That's good consumption for a 190, good good (plotting). I can live without the extra performance, but the 190s tend to be better equipped, and of course good to widen the net when looking.
Much appreciated, enjoy Vienna!
Begged the question as to why I would buy a 140 - only reason I could come up with is that there are more 140's to choose from
Vienna - sadly its purely work
paulmaurice99 said:
Andy665 said:
I'm not really the most knowledgeable about the engines but I am spending the weekend in Vienna with Toyota Europes most highly qualified technician so I will ask him
Only done 1 motorway run so far but it saw in excess of 40mpg
Thanks Andy, err yes, Toyota Europe's most highly qualified technician will do nicely! Only done 1 motorway run so far but it saw in excess of 40mpg
Much appreciated, enjoy Vienna!
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