Owning a true, race bred rally car is a special thing. After lagging behind for over a decade, the US market finally received the EVO and WRX, but by that time, Toyota was out of the game. Instead we were never able to sample Toyota's version of a road worthy, two liter turbo, all wheel drive terror. However, we now can, as the 1994 ST-205 Celica GT Four is now legal and this 1994 model is a great example of why this car is legendary. Featuring aerodynamic styling fitted with all the wings, vents, and grills that made the 1990's rally great; this car drives even better than it look. Finished in Nightfire Metallic, the body is straight and devoid of any major dents, dings, or blemishes to the stock body. Originally finished in Black (202) this color change adds a more subdued, upscale appeal and compliments the lightweight, silver forged Rays wheels. The color change was well done, with all the jambs properly swapped, only the engine bay and truck show the original color.

Being a coupe, compared to the Subaru and Mitsubishi sedans, the Celica has a more aggressive look. As one opens the door to access the cabin, an upscale suite of Defi gauges sits adjacent to the gauge cluster. Oil pressure, boost, oil temp and water temp are all monitored. Besides the signature gauge sweep, the driver will also note an Apexi SAFC allowing the 3S-GTE to run safely. The seats and carpets are in good shape and the bolstering is very supportive. No majors stains or burns are anywhere to be found, and the headliner is also in good shape. The driver's seat is a reclinable Recaro bucket blends into the cabin, and provides stellar support. One creature comfort feature of the interior is the functional sunroof, and it really makes the cockpit feel considerably more open. The dash isn't cracked, and defrost works just fine. The car has had an upgraded Tom's bezel installed so we cant verify mileage, however the cluster currently reads 82K miles. An updated hub, and three spoke steering wheel finish the drivers controls, and all the other power accessory are in tact. Power windows and locks all work properly, and the mirrors can be adjusted for visibility. The headunit has received and upgrade in Japan, and does have functional speakers. Heat and air conditioning make the cabin hospitable year round.

The best part of the ST-205 is the platform and drivetrain. This 3S-GTE is a wonderful mill, and begs to be driven. It creates good mid range torque and sings happily to redline. A new timing belt and water pump have been performed, the most expensive maintenance service, and should provide another 100,000 km of use. A freshly installed 12V battery makes sure that the 2.0L starts every time, and can survive the next few winters. The engine has a raspy growl, and the Blitz Nur Spec polished exhaust does its best to pump out some incredible exhaust notes. The HKS intake gives the intake a bit of flutter, and the throttle response is incredibly quick. The suspension received an overhaul compliments of Tein, and are fully adjustable coilovers. They provide great dampening, albeit a tinge firmer than the stock setup. The platform itself has an astounding amount of grip and can really power through corners. The already short ratio transmission princely clicks into gear and feels as if it's paired with an aftermarket short throw shifter. The transmission is smooth and hitch free. The steering is light, yet communicative, and the driver can really push this platform to the limit if he/she desires. The lower the center of gravity and keep this little go-kart planted. Four tires have been mounted and balanced at all four corners, and wrap around beautiful Volk CE28n forged wheels.

This giant killer is a waiting to be unleashed on US roadways. The zingy turbo four, rally car driving dynamics, and all star chassis make this a turn-key Japanese Classic.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.