Owning a true, race bred rally car isn't for everyone, its for the true enthusiast. Those who understand the rigors of rally racing,and the skills needed to compete, have the utmost respect to those who piloted these 4wd terrors over uneven pavement, mud, and gravel to win rally championships. The ST-205 WRC version was the closest Toyota ever came to putting a road legal rally car into production, and this Solar Yellow (576) 1994 with only 129K original miles, is now legal for the US market. The Solar Yellow exterior is in wonderful condition, and the body is straight, featuring aerodynamic styling fitted with all the wings, vents, and grills that made the 1990's rally great. Aside from very minor small dings, the car looks far above average for a 25 year old vehicle. Of note, the subtle exterior bonnet spoiler and factory wing risers differentiates the WRC model from the less aggressive standard model, but most of the upgrades to the WRC models are hidden from view.

The interior is purpose built, and focuses on the drivers ergonomics. As opposed to the four door competition such as EVO and Impreza, the driving position is much sportier, and centered in the chassis. Sight lines are decent over the dash, which is in great shape, without any sun damage of fading. The tilt wheel can adjust to fit a bevy of different driving positions, and the gauge cluster is easy to read and well illuminated. The seats are in above average shape compared to most cars of this age, and the bolstering is very supportive. The black and blue textured cloth matches the remaining dour interior, and the interior plastics are in good condition. WRC versions feature a different seat design to standard ST205s, and even has provisions for harnesses. Privacy tint reduced interior temps, and makes the car's aesthetic look a touch more subdued. The rear cargo area, and and back seats look seldom used, and the vehicle does have enough stowage capacity for a fun weekend trip. Besides the updated Kenwood head unit featuring Aux and USB, and some aluminum pedals, the interior is unmolested and original. Even the speakers are in fine shape, and they sound crisp and clear. The power windows, locks, and mirrors work, sans the power fold function. The a/c blows cold and the heat pumps in winter time.

The GT-Four model features the latest legal generation of Toyota's 3SGTE. In the Japanese market, featuring a larger size turbocharger, the 1998cc mill produced 252ps, and is especially good in the midrange. Additionally the basic plumbing water injecton and anti lag are all included on the WRC edition compared to all other ST-205s. Its signature heat shield should be noted by the eagle-eyed, and denotes that this is no WRC edition ripoff.The four cylinder easily turns over and settles into a nice idle. A set of new plugs allows for smooth acceleration all the way to redline, and the tight, notchy shifter slips right into gear every time. The 4wd system provides tons of grip, and the chassis is quite communicative. For safety and performance reasons, a set of four brand new all-season tires have been wrapped around the iconic tri-spoke Toyota alloys. The OEM suspension is compliant, and confidence inspiring and handles road imperfections large and small without feeling unsettled. The brakes are wonderful, and stop this sleek coupe down with enthusiasm. Completed by a fresh oil service, and Virginia state safety inspection complete the turn key experience, and the next maintenance won't be needed for five thousand kilometers.

To those in the know, the ST-205 WRC is an important vehicle to the automotive industry as a whole. Its no nonsense performance, boy racer looks, and relative attainability make this a perfect daily driver, track car, or collectors item.