The Toyota Celica VVTL-i 190 - Toyota's Forgotten Coupe? (JDM Legends Tour Pt. 12)

At the turn of the millennium Toyota released their seventh generation of the venerable Celica lineup. With new, sharp angular styling it was a departure from the iconic sixth generation. With no GT-Four version and the hottest car powered by a 1.8L 190hp 2ZZ motor, how does this coupe hold up today, where it is now available at a bargain price?
You can now help us in many ways:
Support us on Patreon here: / jayemmoncars
We have also partnered with UK insurance broker ADRIAN FLUX. With special policies for classic, performance and modified vehicles they have a great range of products and are a great choice if you're searching around for a renewal. If you call them on our special number, or mention JayEmm On Cars when calling up we get a small payment which helps the channel keep on ticking!
Just call them on 0800 085 6452 (UK Only)
...and if you've spotted a shirt in my video you like, there's a good chance it came from CLAUDIO LUGLI. Check out their site - www.claudiolugl... and enter JAYEMM15 at the checkout for a discount on us!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow us on Social Media:
/ jayemmoncars
/ jayemmoncars
/ jayemmoncars
And if you LOVE driving, and are based in Europe, I am now running an events and track day company called Magnitude - sign up for their newsletter here!
landing.mailer...

[@abuelb]

2002 Celica gts 6spd here with 378k+ miles and still runs like a champ all the way to redline. Take that Honda.

[@matthewadkins9810]

Honda RSX is just as reliable

[@kimwhilock8777]

This gives me hope 👍 My Celica is at 172k

[@abuelb]

@@kimwhilock8777 update: my 02 gts now has 393k miles and still runs like a dream.

[@kimwhilock8777]

@@abuelb bulletproof engines! This is why I love Toyota

[@jasonhang647]

I got the corolla xrs and 230k miles.

[@vikimatejka8946]

After bad luck with Type R I went for cheap daily and even after a year I have to say its a brilliant car. Nippy even just 140 bhp, comfy, 6 gears, great on fuel, massive boot, cheap to insure, cheap parts and bulletproof engine👌🏼

[@tishawnlopez1518]

Your definitely right about that Bulletproof engine 😆

[@keyboarddancers7751]

Engines are good but not bulletproof. Early 1ZZs suffer oil ring failure. 2ZZ oil sump and oil pump issues and it does not really tolerate low oil or low coolant.

[@kasugakyosuke6441]

@@keyboarddancers7751 It's just a story of good maintenance and checking regularly fluids levels. If you do so, these Toyota engines are really reliable engines, as most Toyota engines. Issues you're talking about, have long time been solved already. The first models carrying this kind of troubles, were fixed under recalls from Toyota. Then the latest phase 1 models and all the phase 2 models were literally out of any problems. I got a 2004 MY, it was just a pure reliable machine without any problems, no suspect sounds. Just as good as a brand new car.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

@@kasugakyosuke6441 I bought my 1ZZ with over 90k miles on it and I could never understand why it needed constant oil topping up, not being aware at the time of this common problem. Eventually and inevitably it failed its annual emissions inspection at over 130k which was not bad going for such leaky rings (not economical to repair) so I never felt too hard done by when I scrapped it. I still miss that little car's exceptional handling in the twisties.

[@kasugakyosuke6441]

@@keyboarddancers7751 Sad story indeed. I honestly always have been kinda paranoiac with fluids levels and maintenance, so I'm checking at least once a week the fluids levels.

[@ScottZ370]

Do find it mind blowing this is faster than the GT86

[@remytv]

S Miller the celica gt-s was a lot more expensive back then than a 86 too

[@willmoua1]

What are you smoking kid? Bought mine in 00' 22k off the lot.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Inflation.

[@ScottZ370]

As if they sold them for that back then, guess 192hp was impressive in 2000 to be fair

[@H43N]

I have a red gt with rims and tint I bought for used for 2k. 200k miles never even had a check engine light. better mpg than an 86, more storage, lighter, and a sunroof. fun fact: 2zz engine is in a lotus as well

[@UnitiveWILLIAM24]

I love the Celica. Been driving them for almost* a decade & currently have 2. One is definitely the garage queen that im trying to keep prestine for years to come.

[@Divocapella]

Smart man

[@nahemadee448]

Same here - been driving my celica for 6 years and was already dreading the day I would have to get a new car … but then I found a gem: A 2000 Celica with only 33.000 Km on it :). Decided it was too precious to use aaaaall the time. So now I drive my old one during the autumn/ winter season and my garage queen during spring and summer! They’re just so much fun to drive!

[@fabslyrics]

I drive one since 2009 a 2001 model 143bhp zt230 6speed manual silver all stock. I took it in over moving from France to Switzerland in the mountains just an amazing reliable balanced economical, functional and fun car! And what a trunk! I put on well over 200,000 km total on it. Mostly highway and tourismo all over the alps Italy, South of France and to Paris . A bit spartan it's a real pleasure to drive ! Touch wood Never had any mechanical issue. Just one new clutch and new breaks, top end sports tyres sets, Castrol 5w30 performance oil changes for engine and transmission, new filters and new spark plugs one Coolant flush, It's a chain engine . Rock solid. Couldn't be happier about it. I highly recommend if you like the style. I don't know how I will ever let it go... Probably never.

[@alanmoon6274]

I'm 51 and have a celica 2002 vvti a fantastic car I should of bought one years ago love it my mates asked me if I was having a mid life crisis lol

[@Xandersw1]

Haha you can tell them that the Celica doesn't know time. Still to this day its a beauty on the road. Timeless sports!

[@joang5938]

I got mine at 49. Now I'm 53 and after 46000 kms mainly on weekends without any trouble, I wonder why I did't bought one before.

[@josephbarr1659]

I just turned 51, and bought my first Celica GT (2002) going on 2 months now. Love it. It's a 5-speed manual, is fun to drive, and has been completely reliable which is to be expected since it's a Toyota. 👍❤️

[@crack24able]

Last year I bought a 2005 vvti as my first car for £1600 and to be honest I have nothing but good things to say about it. Feels and drives great, amazing storage, easily fits 2 bikes and have done a road trip through France with a bunch of luggage and camping gear with no issues, and it's pretty good on gas and insurance. I also love the sound and styling and it's so fun to drive. All in all, definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cheap fun daily!

[@WarshipSub]

bought one a year ago..... 100000000% best purchase ever

[@fenby1976]

I've had a VVTLI for over 3 years. It only cost £2000, but it's so much fun. The only things that have gone wrong with it are a seized front brake calliper and some exhaust system corrosion which I fixed with a MIG welder and an exhaust sleeve for £10. They're surprisingly practical too. I can fit a couple of mountain bikes in the back and camping gear.

[@tommycarradice3146]

Hooray glad someone has finally done a review there's not to many on these cars just bought a t sport one with this engine as my first performance car. Great content as always keep it up

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Tommy

[@departe5672]

tommy carradice my too I have a T Sport :) I love it and I care for lit,I don't care about others people opinions. .I am happy with mine,BTW. .the engine is made with Yamaha engineers. ..it says on it Yamaha. But people go for BMW and Audi and more complicated engines after that they start complaining about the problems with it ..:))

[@unnecessaryworkouts3649]

What kind of fuel economy do you get

[@martinbond461]

I had a blue Celica 190 back in 2003 and loved it. I bought it to replace the TVR Chimeara 500 that I sold, and despite it being much slower than the TVR, it was still great fun to drive. I think this model still looks fresh and modern even now in 2020.

[@djchocice]

They're brilliant cars, massively underrated because A) Everyone had a tantrum because it was FWD and had a revvy 4 pot instead of 4WD and a turbo and B) The Honda Integra Type R, its chief rival, was so much more focussed from the factory and spanked it as a drivers car, not so much as an all rounder.

[@fabslyrics]

FWD is the greatest thing because it is safe on the wet and icy roads even when pushed

[@UnitiveWILLIAM24]

The Celica was the only competitor to Integra and civic mainly. Prelude, too but the prelude also died years before the Celica.

[@comediccommentator4663]

@UnitiveWILLIAM24 Yes sir, very accurate knowledge. Celica GT = direct competition for base integra DC2s and civic EM1s. Celica GT-S or with 2zz = direct comepetitor for DC2 integra Gs-R (b18c1) and EM1 civic si (b16a2). Side competitor is the prelude SE and SH. (Because preludes were marketed more as a affordable luxury or excecutive GT car in the north american market). Celica TRD sports m = direct competitor for integra DC2 Type R and Civic ek9 type R hatch.

[@1S1KC0DM4N]

No No, yeah so with only like 3 minutes of Research using google, that’s not very accurate. Fastest times I’ve seen for a Celica was 6.5 for a 2000 GTS and the fastest I’ve seen for an Integra GS-R is from 93 with 6.3 sec and 97 at 6.9 sec. The 2000 Type R is as low as 6.1 according to zeroto60times.com. And I drive a Lexus SC300, so I don’t really give a shit about either cars although I’d take the Integra over the Celica. Unless it’s a GT-4 obviously

[@miljororforsprakpartiet290]

Also, it had a controversial look, cheap interior, very unreliable engines and was disproportionally expensive when new.

[@funnystuffenstufff]

Love my 190 as an everyday car for work. Had it since I was 21. Certainly livens up the commute! Much more interesting to look at than a clio 182 or generic diesel of some sort...

[@beyondultraperformance9709]

Best car I ever bought never letting it go

[@SkullDivisioN564]

Same here, I will be giving it to my daughter later on...

[@brianmessemer2973]

I just bought a 2001 Celica GTS off my Dad. It's an absolute gem. I hope it lasts for many many years.

[@kasugakyosuke6441]

I had a 2004 MY Celica TS (GTS), it was my daily car. Toyota's engineers did an incredible/exceptional job on this Celica. It's often what people don't understand or forgot. The terms of reference/the demanding specifications which have been set on the papers, was very complicated/complex opposition to each others. It needed to be fast, reliable, confortable and full efficient all at the same time. They achieved one of the best balancing ever seen, between these very different specifications. I witnessed many people being surprised of the fuel efficiency of this 190 HP car, as well as it's confort, when riding it as passenger. People are wrongly comparing it to the Honda ITR, the Celica was a true versatile car, compared to the performance oriented ITR. You could get on long trips without being tired with the Celica, while my co-worker who had an ITR, admitted himself the ITR was really tiring on this side.

[@ItsTheNada]

Not sure why this car never got the same love as the integra. Not just the type r but just the integra. Same formula. It's JDM. What a mystery.

[@reneeharewood5053]

I love these engines

[@lightninglashx9332]

I'd say the staying of the rear is very strange and that the integra was always said to be better.

[@hk07666]

Because the Integra was in popular movies, the celica was not.

[@reinhart482]

Because Toyota lol. These engines don’t even compare at all in modding potential compared to a b18 or h22 Honda engines from similar time periods. Same for the ECU tuning potential. Honda is easy to mod, swap and interchange engine parts. This is coming from a multiple mr2 turbo, supercharged, and 20valve Toyota owner

[@tfuc9070]

yamaha engine tended to had issues, from what I heard but models without the yamaha engines are fine

[@mistert1628]

I have owned some high performance turbo charged cars but this is the most complete and raw sports car I have ever owned - you can see what the engineers were trying to do its a masterpiece in my opinion and in the wet weather (and some risk) it's absolutely mental fun!

[@kasugakyosuke6441]

You absolutely nailed it ! Toyota's engineers did an incredible/exceptional job on this Celica. It's often what people don't understand or forgot. The terms of reference/the demanding specifications which have been set on the papers, was very complicated/complex opposition to each others. It needed to be fast, reliable, confortable and full efficient all at the same time. They achieved one of the best balancing ever seen, between these very different specifications. I witnessed many people being surprised of the fuel efficiency of this 190 HP car, as well as it's confort, when riding it as passenger.

[@DubbedJey]

In America, this car is truly undervalued this and the 86 are my dream cars at least I have one (Celica) and one more to go.

[@keyboarddancers]

I've got a 2004 VVTi 140; low powered obviously but keep it high in the revs and it is an absolute hoot on the twisties although heel and toe is not so easy if you're tall. Fantastic handler on tight bends due to low weight and very low CofG and that's without any suspension mods or fancy tyres. Winter tyres make it astonishingly practical in snow and ice.

[@jacoja06]

I recently bought a T-Sport with upgraded suspension a few months ago. It was cheap as chips, but still bloody fun to drive. Cannot think of a better car for the money (also considering maintenance - which is mostly corolla parts). I can't justify paying an extra £10k+ for a used GT86. You can crash four Celicas and still be better off

[@blueinquisitor2000]

I love my Celica. I only have the 140bhp version, but it is still a lot of fun. The red leather interior is a bit kinky too.... People are often surprised when I tell them it is 17 years old! Non car people often mistake it for a much newer model! It's never let me down either, 4 years of ownership and zero mechanical faults.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

Watch out for rear sub frame corrosion.

[@LoyaFrostwind]

I have 197k miles on my 2001 Celica GT, and still love it. It's wonderful as my daily car.

[@FD36]

Time for a timing chain/tensioner change.

[@LoyaFrostwind]

Maybe that's next. Also, I will need to replace front shocks eventually, but not as vital right now. Just passed smog earlier this month. Whew. Had to replace all 4 spark plugs and fuel filter. They also cleaned the heck out of the throttle and other parts.

[@xanxx5868]

The auto manual mode is a blast too. Love my Gt-S never letting go.

[@edsanchez9198]

Yolo if you still have it xP

[@techhpro]

I’m 52. Had my 04 since new. Light blue & lowered. Still like new. Only fixed axel boot. Nothing more beautiful in it’s price range has come out since.

[@joec4665]

My 2000 GTS handles like a go cart, and is very fun to drive. True the interior is all plastic, but still looks great for an 18 year old car, I rather have the plastic instead of an old cracked dash, it's easier to maintain. It probably has UV stabilizers in the plastic. The sun roof when opened hangs off the roof line, and has a distinctive look to it. Of course these engines are high revving, designed by Yamaha, a motorcycle company that know how to make an engine to take this punishment. In the US of A, our models didn't get the water cooled oil coolers, like our european cousins. I installed this on my car and I've noticed the engine runs smooth and quieter. The cylinders on the 2ZZGE Engine are lined from the factory with a material that resists wear. I have over 200K miles on my engine and it doesn't burn any oil. I polished the factory intakes and a smog shop refused to smog it saying that i installed an aftermaket intake, i couldn't convince him that it was factory. I've discovered the strenghts and weaknesses of this car, but trust me, ALL large production cars have these. But if you address these issues, you will have a great running car. The cheapest insurance is changing the oil on a REGULAR schedule. Use the right oil, because this oil must go through small ports to achieve LIFT. This car is a hidden gem, it stands out in a sea of Hondas.

[@travelandmusic1892]

after 2003 is better?

[@johnodeere7128]

@@travelandmusic1892 No because that put a Rev limiter on later models. But I think 2002 and later have the updated oil squirters, on the early model, the spring tension was too high leading to insufficient oil cooling and lubrication on the piston and crankshaft bearings. I changed mine and noticed a significant improvement in performance. Use the 1ZZ oil pan because it has baffles, the original 2ZZ pan doesn’t have baffles, this can lead to oil starvation in hard cornering. Always clean the filters on the lift actuators, and make sure your lift bolts are not broken, this was a design defect from the factory. The replacements are more durable, I saw owner made some out of titanium and sold to other owners at a high price, but maybe worth it, good luck on your car. These cars are allot of fun!!

[@travelandmusic1892]

@@johnodeere7128 i am looking a 2004 to buy

[@somethingclever8526]

@@johnodeere7128 Nice comments, man, you mentioned almost everything important regarding these cars, I'm sure the other guy will find it useful :) Now, I don't really have first-hand experience with the car, but my dad has a Celica T-Sport/GTS, so I've been participating in its life, and I've seen/heard stuff over time. One thing that my dad did pretty soon after getting the car for example, is swapping the connecting rod bearings (I think that's what they're called in English). They aren't prone to being _that_ problematic, but the general consensus in our local Celica "club" was that it's highly advised to change those things in your 2zz - because you know, high-revving, old car, with wear and such. Just to be safe. Our lift-bolts were also changed for new ones. And a couple other things I can't recall right now. But apart from that, it really isn't a problematic car. It's more "high-maintenance" than suzuki, but not too bad. And in return, it's a great car. We once had a tour with the other Celica guys in the mountains' twisty roads, and let me tell you, it was the best car-experience I've ever had: the changes in elevation, coupled with the power, the incredible steering capabilities (we had basically virgin semi-slicks back then), and that mighty sound courtesy of Yamaha... incredible. And a couple times we also took it to a track. One of the occasions, there was even a Toyota slalom-competition and we came 3rd overall ("losing" only to a 1zz MR2 and a 2JZ-swapped Mk.3 Supra). It wasn't a serious thing but we were up against other Celicas of all kinds, MR2s, GT86s etc. so we were proud of that. Aaanyway, I digress lol. (Btw, ours is a 2000 as well with ~230k kms)

[@johnodeere7128]

@@somethingclever8526 I’ve changed out the bearings on the crankshaft and changed out the oil squirters with MWR squirters because the factory oil squirters are very restrictive. I also installed a 1ZZ oil pan because they have baffles in the pan to keep the oil next to the oil pick up so that you don’t starve your engine of oil on hard cornering. There are a lot of little tricks you can do to improve performance. Just keep reading what other owners do in the forums. Good luck!

[@cal2616v]

great review for neils vvtli ...ive actaully owned my 2zzge vvtli for 5 years now and they are fantastic cars and im 41 , i use mine as a daily workhorse and then use for car shows over some parts over the uk ...as you said earlier the celica suffers from the ride height of which i changed last year with a eibach prokit progressive sports suspension kit alongside with uprated kyb struts , short shifter with poly gearbushes , lighter after market alloy wheels (stuck with 17s rather than 18s with 215 x45 tyres and custom exhaust ...the feel of the car now is so much better than stock :)

[@64Michaelwayne]

Great review,I have had a 140 and two 190 GT's, sold my last one three years ago and now starting to regret it,it was a 2006 thunder grey with 32k on the clock in absolute pristine showroom condition,must have been one of the best examples out there. I now have first refusal on another GT in mint condition,hopefully available next year (2021),great cars and much fun to drive,they certainly bring out the kid in a 56 year old man 🙂

[@jamesburto1883]

Awesome little car, l had mine for years with no issues and ran it up to 250000 miles

[@danogamez5250]

Awsome car very under rated ...still holds its looks better looking than a lot of new cars

[@YTSsport]

I had the Corolla T Sport with the same engine. The 2005 model had slight upgrades. Car had to be worked but once you know how to drive it they become sleepers. Great car

[@johnavatar331]

I made 197 whp on mines which is roughly 220 crank. Great in twisties and all you really need to maintain it is oil change.

[@dephataznboi]

Lol, this car kills it in the wet road. I've driven it with 200TW tires in the rain & it will not hydroplane or spin out of control, simply amazing.

[@limestonecowboy291]

Driven lots of capable cars, lambos, Fezzez, Porsches, Etc. and been lucky enough to own a few very nice cars too. BUT My 'O6 14OBHP Celica is without doubt the best car I've ever had and I've owned it for 5 years. in fact I've just recently parted with a 2O19 Audi TT Ultra after only five thousand miles, simply because for less than the cost of two monthly payments on it, I bought my Celica outright ! It outshines the TT in almost every respect. Turns heads where ever it goes, makes me grin on the B roads, will carry my 3 kids in comfort, return nearly fifty to the gallon when taking it steady. This car has covered nearly 2OOk, has never broken down in its life, everything works like new, and despite being thrashed within an inch of its life every day, it has just been bomb proof, with nothing more than regular servicing ! The market is catching up with these cars now, and the Celica gen 7 is enjoying re-discovery and used prices are rising !! if you want one cheap buy now. if you have a good on, keep it, enjoy it and save yourself a hundred grand on something that will require a constant flow of cash and attention !

[@lukemarkham8727]

I have had basically this exact car (2001, 190 tsport) for about two months now and absolutely loving it! It’s my second car and first performancy one and it’s been great. I got mine with a bit of a tatty paint job and a dodgily replaced front bumper (and a battery that I suspect needs replacing soon) for £660. The insurance for me (25 years old with 2 years no claims) is £420, tax is something like £280. Very affordable indeed for what it is! I have definitely found it stands out where I live as well, probably as there are so few around. I was going to get an Impreza but they cost so much more to buy and insure, and honestly seem more common. I don’t regret going for this in the slightest and would encourage anyone to get it, especially younger drivers looking for a fun, cheap run about.

[@flatlandrory]

I've got the 190bhp T Sport and I love it. Drives fantastic and looks the part. All standard and it's stating that way.

[@DesertRat63]

Great video, I'm 55 and have had my mid-life crisis car now for past 10yrs. Celica T-sport 52 reg with 126,000 on clock. Still looks and sounds great in 'thunder grey' metallic. No mods done, all original, no rust. Still love the car now as when I first bought it 10yrs ago for £4000. Maybe change it in a couple years time when the GT86 comes down in price (2nd hand) ;-)

[@posniknelb6114]

Had one.Great handling car.Bullet proof reliability also.!

[@JM-ss8cb]

Recently purchased a 2004 T sport Celica and 5 years on from this video its still a totally under rated gem. They can still be bought here in the UK for fairly little. Agree the ride hight is ridiculous, Ill be fitting stiffer and lower springs soon.

[@hobbymanx9200]

This got the most stunning rear pillars around its greenhouse. So underrated.

[@waltermelonz2973]

As I said in your last video and my ownership of one. I replaced the springs with some TTE parts and new droplinks . I uprated the brakes to some mtec discs and ebc yellow pads. Fitted some lightweight rota alloys and Michelin pilot sport 3 tyres along with some spacers to widen the track plus a Megan racing 3 peice underbrace kit. It handled very very well. Certainly the issue I had when really wanting to make progress on a b road was more the peak power location. You would seem to have to hang on to 2nd most of the time to really keep it on the boil. No question a well sorted Celica with a capable driver could certainly turn it into a b road bruiser. I loved mine. I miss it dearly

[@nbn292]

did u sell it or bang it up or not maintain it properly?

[@johnoshea470]

Ive had many cars over the years but without doubt my 2002 toyota celica 1.8 vvti 140bhp was the best, bulletproof reliabilty, easy to maintain and so good and fun to drive, anybody looking to buy a celica my advice is do not hesitate , go and buy one you will not regret it

[@conorf8091]

Pretty excited. Just found these gems...brilliant price to performance in the UK

[@garyhawkins9246]

I bought a Black Premium Sport tax free in 2002, had it for 12 months/ 10,000 miles, absolutely loved it

[@brianfahy4519]

To stay in lift bang the limiter once then change gear. works a treat and sounds beautiful.

[@Nippernator]

Love this car! Well done on the review! Best one on the internet I'd say :)

[@coloneljaffa]

Nippernator Thats why I gave my car to James as coverage of these cars is pretty much non existant. He is very impartial which I like so his reviews are 100% how he feels.

[@Craigz1000]

I have the Celica TRD GT (body kit model) with 2001 ECU ( so 8250 RPM until redline). Has a custom SS exhaust cat back and use IK20 Denso plugs (4mm gap) which seriously does help the acceleration. Must admit they have no torque whatsoever, but are a high revving engine so you need to rev the tits off it to get anywhere. The "lift" at 6200 RPM is far more pronounced than a VTec and you do feel it. Hard part is keeping it in lift through the gears. There's a knack to keeping it there between shifts but takes time to master. Brilliant through the country lanes and grip the road/corners like a go-kart. The GT TRD version is lowered by about 30mm compared to standard T-sport/VVTL-i models. Brilliant on fuel. Doesn't like bumpy roads with stiffer suspension. As for drone noise, buy a decent stereo for motorway runs. Many people don't appreciate how good these cars actually are and if you look after them with regular oil changes/service, I would bet they would outlast most cars. Put it this way, mine has 184K and doesn't smoke, runs quiet and is still a blast.

[@Bobaganush26]

Well, my 2000 GTS has cam switch at 6000. Not 6200. This helps so much.

[@tehbengkhiam5863]

just bought one. still have not take it to the limit. handling and corner is good.

[@scottbeaumont8651]

Good review, bought my Celica completely stock it's come along way now tein coilovers make a massive difference to the car getting it rotrex supercharger in September can't wait 🏁👍

[@jonnywalker3208]

Just bought one and OMG I wish I could show you it ... its insane!!!!

[@TheBeansta]

Bought the 1zzfe version of the Celica as my first car. Surprisingly not too expensive, and way more practical in terms of boot space than all of the little hatchbacks my friends drive. Also really fun to hoon on a nice country road

[@samcharles1166]

How much did you pay bro? also how long is the boot space? Cheers from NZ

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@samcharles1166 celicas are stupid money in nz at the moment lol, boot space is really good. can easily fit the front bumper in there

[@samcharles1166]

@@arcanevoid9199 yeah prices are pretty nuts it's like 5k+ for a 300k kms one. I do love the look of em tho so maybe I'll try cut a deal for like 3k and the fix the issues.

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@samcharles1166 yea you could do that, im planning on selling mine pretty soon

[@samcharles1166]

@@arcanevoid9199 Nice, what trim do you have?

[@christianrussell8293]

The VTEC crossover on the original Type R’s was anything but subtle. Sounds like you’ve experienced an EP3 with it’s smoother crossover.

[@seanwatkins865]

I’m fortunate enough to have a 06 Celica GT and I’m 19. They are very inexpensive cars to run and insure. The GT’s body kit and lowering springs are a huge improvement over the T-Sport, they look absolutely stunning on the road, really stands out amongst all the Civic Type R’s. I’ve never felt I’ve had any lack of power, hitting 6000rpm feels fantastic but I wouldn’t want any less power, stick to the 190 I would. With a few small mods; stainless steel exhaust and air intake, the looks really match the sound and speed of the car. Highly recommended if you want a fairly cheap sports coupe.

[@coloneljaffa]

Sean Watkins Arent really a huge improvement just a bodykit and lowering springs. I do like them but best bang for buck is a T Sport. Thats what I wanted.

[@bonezee155]

I got a GT now my kits are grown up and i wanted something cheap and reliable to boot to work and back. i love it it's perfect for A and B roads,i bought a low milage one for a very decent price and when i see similar ones for sale i can honestly say i haven't lost any money on it,in fact i've made a profit!

[@davidrippon3961]

Sean Watkins lp

[@davidrippon3961]

Sean Watkins l

[@jasonjuggler3457]

@@bonezee155 how much did you pay / mileage?

[@paullogondez786]

I have a 2002 Celica GT ... and I'm keeping it! 💖

[@chriscuthbertson]

I was huge fan of late 90's JGTC cars especially the GT300 class and I remember how good the Celica looked.

[@stuntmania3000]

This was a dream car for me for the longest time, and I still want at least sample one to drive. Growing up with the need for speed games of the early 2000's and Gran Turismo, I have always wanted one.

[@steviekfc1869]

love your reviews of these older cars mate, very good, keep up the good work!

[@spainter1985]

There was so much choice in the 90's and early 2000's - spoilt for choice for cool performance cars! 200SX's, MR2 T-Bar's, Celica's, Supra's, Integra's, CRX's etc. Some of them being pretty practical too being large hatchback style coupes. I rather like these! Ultimate sleeper with this engine in the Corolla too!

[@mikepowers572]

Clio sport, type-r, i30 N, 1M, MX5, Focus RS, Focus ST, Fiesta ST, 370z, 86/brz, S3, RS3, TT, TT-RS, Z4M, Elise, WRX, evo 10, Megane RS etc.. the list goes on. there is loads of new car choice!

[@Dravensdmf]

Ahh the car I should never have sold. I miss it 10 years on.

[@josephbarr1659]

I just bought a 2002 GT (1zz) about 2 months ago to use as my daily driver. It's really in beautiful condition and only has 119k miles which is pretty low for an almost 20 year old car. It's a 5-speed manual and is an absolute joy to drive. I appreciate the fact that you just don't see a lot of Celicas on the road compared to Hondas which are commonplace and boring. I've only done a handful of cosmetic mods to mine so far. Performance mods will begin probably in about 4 months, starting with upgrading all the engine internals to prepare it for boosting. Looking into lots of other performance upgrades as well including ECU, fuel rail, catback exhaust, coilovers, CAI, and anything else I can come up with to squeeze every last drop of power out of this little 1zz. Overall, I'm having a blast with this car.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

These cars are stunning handlers on tight twisties.

[@paulgroves671]

I bought a decent condition T Sport a few weeks ago. Previously i've had just about every Type R going. To me it feels like a DC5 turned down to about 8. I don't think that's a bad thing though, the good/real Type R's can be a pain as daily drivers. This is comfortable, good steering (un-corrupted by a diff), decent ride and not too loud. I like it a lot.

[@coloneljaffa]

Paul Groves Awesome to know man. I feel like these always get a lot of hate because they aren't in the Type Rs league but its not that far off and about 3x less money. I actually overpaid for mine but you can get then for around 1500.

[@TheRealD4]

Paul Groves I thought with 190hp a diff would become important? You actually prefer no lsd?

[@paulgroves671]

LSD's are great and all that but an aggressive one can drag you around on a badly surfaced road that an open diff car would be fine down.

[@White-Yellow-Music]

I had two Celicas, a VVTi and a VVTL-i, and they're great fun. I'm thinking of getting a GT in mint show condition, probably in Thunder Grey.

[@tomatosquid434]

I absolutely love my 2004 Celica GT with a tsunami body kit. I have so much fun with it every time I drive!

[@tinkertalksguns7289]

I test-drove one of these in 2000. As a new car the suspension was compliant and predictable rather than 'soft' as such and it was genuinely quick for what it was. Pushed it about as hard as I could manage; probably took years off the salesman's life. The problem I found was that it was hard to keep on the boil; it would come on-cam and if you were pushing it would hit the rev-limiter almost instantly. I was driving an ST165 at the time and this car offered nothing my 12 year-old car didn't do better (though I imagine maintenance on this car would have been HUGELY cheaper.)

[@jasongonzales7879]

loved the way this car looks. i’ve loved mine every second. super easy to work on. not much aftermarket support but the community is great. and you’re likely the only one in your city with one of these

[@weliftnation2418]

Great video the Celica is a very great car.

[@FunkeeMawnkee]

I just bought one as a daily driver and it's great. Love the vvti.

[@user-xk7pk7wq1x]

What's it like on fuel? I need to do a 70 mile round trip 5 days a week.

[@navewindre]

@@user-xk7pk7wq1x you can pull off 30mpg if you baby it. the car acts like a corolla until around 5k rpm.

[@JB-F10-M5]

Same James I have looked at them on more than one occasion because they are so fantastically cheap for what they are. I also have watched more than one Tuber put them head to head with the Gt86 and on both occasions the celica 190 won and convincingly 🤷🏽‍♂️ that’s great value

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I'd have the 86 personally but the Celica is crazy value

[@Lookbusybuddy]

I like these . Only things i would change would be the standard wheels and the wing mirrors as they dont suit the cars lines .

[@jameswingrove7421]

When I was 19 I bought a 6th generation Celica GT Twin Cam in a burnt orange/copper like colour. It had a set of TSW wheels on it and a Sigma alarm. 15 years old when I got it with 60k on the clock and I really enjoyed cruising around in it. It wasn’t quick at all really, but it was comfortable, and everything worked. No rust anywhere. The only downside was paying £190 a month to insure it and I sold it after a couple of months for an Astra 1.8 SRI...I’d have another one of those Celicas in a heartbeat, though the MR2 T-Bar I had with the same engine was a much more engaging car to drive across the moors not too far from where I live.

[@BlueXonar]

I've had two Corolla T-Sports, a Celica GT (the "F&F inspired" one), and currently have a Celica T-Sport on the fleet. I love these cars. They aren't without their faults, but they are still made by Toyota so those faults are unlikely to leave you stranded! I am very tempted to do some simple modifications to this one. It has a custom made cold air intake, but I might put on some decent coilovers, strip out the interior, remove the (broken) AC, and relocate the battery to the rear... The Corolla T-Sport in facelift flavour I think is a much better buy than an EP3. Flat out there is nothing in it. The Corolla is built better, has a nicer interior, and daily creature comforts like auto climate and auto wipers, where most EP3's didn't even come with basic AC... The handling out of the box is nowhere near as good as the EP3, but that is easily fixed with some £400 Tein coilovers. They cost half as much to buy and half as much to insure, and they attract less attention which is often no bad thing! My only gripe with them is that the steering feel of the Corolla vs the EP3 (and the Celica for that matter) is very numb and lifeless because it is an electrically assisted rack, whereas the other two are hydraulic. But yeah... Either the Celica or the Corolla, excellent buy for the money.

[@mrfunkymuir]

I just bought one A Red version not red colour 😃 black with red interior and extras. Loving it. Like nothing I've ever had. Had hondas for years. But this is special. Need to find a wee group of owners in Scotland

[@raymondgreen5261]

I have had t sport 2004 15yrs. Runs like new . Done 270000 miles. Dose t mater how fast you go it sticks to the road. All original.

[@LethalJizzle]

4:24 - I'm sold! Love sort of forgotten sports cars like these. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the Rx8.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I am desperately trying to do something with the RX8, just need to find a kind owner!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Alfredo Mussolini You're as funny as your brother

[@chrisogrady28]

JayEmm on Cars 😂

[@squareblueorange]

Nice review! I bought my '04 t-sport in thunder grey 5 years ago. Nippy, nice handling and really practical too, huge boot! Keep thinking of changing it but with all the above plus looking great and being really reliable I always decide to keep it. I got this after owning a mkiv supra and a celica gt4 st205 wrc edition. It was going to be a track car but it's turned into my daily driver. Love it.

[@MrIlovepancakes95]

I had one of these as my first performance car and it was great. Totally agree with your review just too loud on the motorway! Still loved it ... Until I hit ice ... And then a ditch/fence ...

[@shaun_harvey]

Looking for my first car, I wanted something reasonably sporty and reliable that could still lug 4 people around if needed, and in the end opted for a 2004 T-Sport Celica; 6 years on I still love it. I've become a little obsessed with the Evora recently, and one day I hope to get an S or even a 400 if I'm lucky, but I was keen to see what your thoughts would be on the Celica. You've pretty much nailed everything on the head; the first year of insurance wasn't pleasant, but it was still cheaper than many other cars that had less performance. I also agree that it sits too high; the GTs look better being 30mm lower with their 18" wheels, but on the other hand I don't have to worry about speedbumps too much. They are deceptively practical; with the rear seats folded down I even managed to take a new fridge freezer home (it's about 5 feet tall). The lack of torque is a pain , but downshifting with a blip and chasing the power is still fun. The more recent cars, I think from 2003 onwards, fixed a few potential issues such as with the lift bolts (these are what kick the cams onto a different profile at 6200RPM), and they also had a facelift which I prefer the look of. Mine had 68k miles on the clock, now 105k, and it has been solid for the duration.

[@SoulEater090]

Shaun Harvey How much was the insurance?

[@shaun_harvey]

If I recall correctly it was about £1450, and it dropped to £900 or so at renewal, however I was on an accelerated insurance policy lasting 10 months rather than the usual 12. I was doing it to get the no claims bonus quicker, as it would still earn 1 year NCB despite being less than a year; I have no idea if that's still an option as I'm not on it anymore.

[@davidmyers3745]

I have a2002 gt completely stock except for cold alr intake from trd it's a 5 speed a blast to drive and pretty damn quick love it

[@foxhounduk2k8]

GREAT REVIEW! MORE OF THESE FORGOTTEN GEMS PLEASE. YOUR REVIEW STYLE IS VERY INFORMATIVE AND RELAXED.PLEASURE TO WATCH

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks!

[@KingJamesIX]

I use a 00 GT model Celica with the 1ZZ as a daily beater in Houston, TX it doesn't have the high rpm power boost but it is definitely a great daily runabout as you call it.

[@theprogambler4003]

I've owned and daily driven a 7th gen celica for 6 years and don't want to change because I know I would regret it because of all of the reasons below: It's very cheap and a lot of car for the money, good quality, looks more expensive and newer than it is, very reliable (never had any problems in 6 years), low running costs of an average car, decently practical with a big boot, handles very good when lowered. It lacks torque compared to other sports cars but that's why its so efficient and reliable. For me its the perfectly balanced car for such a low price. I would only change if I had a bigger budget

[@theitalianjob1372]

Good review mate, as others have said it’s nice to actually see a review on one of these. I sold my GT 190 last year and miss it a lot, that came lowered from The factory and sat spot on and handled like a dream. Would be good if you could review a GT 190 👍

[@theitalianjob1372]

Review a Corolla T Sport too, must be one of the best sleepers out there, in a straight line anyway 😄

[@bendraper5024]

I'm 19 and love mine

[@XXlovehurt]

Love my blue charcol 2003 gt 5 speed celica original. No rust beside front chips....handle very well.

[@JonahLongworth]

The celica is an amazing car people really sleep on these things but you have to drive one to really appreciate it you may not think it handles well but it handles extremely well and it being fwd I don't notice tons of under steer at-least non that isn't controllable

[@Craigz1000]

Monkey Wrench Racing for 2ZZ GE upgrades OR in the UK go for Se7en Motorsports. Offer Rotrex supercharger kits or turbo conversions. 300 BHP on 2ZZ. Just change the oil regular and if it doesnt hit "lift" at 6200, check the OCV filters and lift bolts. Change them every 30K miles approx. Easy job.

[@laxiton]

I have one of the very first years, 1999, it just keeps on going and still gets looks. Drives like new, practically no serious maintenance or issues. Revs great and I think my rims are bigger than his in the video? Something looks off there.

[@steveberridge4648]

4 years on from this video and these are such bargains. £2k still bags you a 190 whereas you need about £15k now for a DC2. They're good but not 7 x better than the Toyota IMO. Definitely one to consider in 2023 as will never be cheaper.

[@DeepRacer-zr4yp]

Exactly people beat on the 7th Gen Celica and on the 2ZZ Engine. But a B18 or K20 Engine Car is a lot more expensive. There is something called Price-Performance-Ratio and this car is just spot on.

[@randyubriacosr6580]

Just bought an Red-88-Celica GT Convertible 5 Speed 2.0 for 2nd Car - Fell in Love all over again!… Drive 17 Toyo RAV4 for daily … She’s 😮VERY upset 😜

[@thesilentgametestr]

loved my corolla T sport which was completely stock(who needs exhaust and filter change when you got the sound of 'Lift' to listen to and enjoy. i do wish i was able to have gotten the celica version as i do like the look of them better, but needed the practicality at the time. they are currently not badly priced these days although of a lot be it the 190 or 140 model has a lot of miles.

[@armink9686]

Love the 2zz, I gotta have a car with that engine one day. It's either going to be the Celica or the Corolla TTE compressor. Subscribed.

[@177SCmaro]

Armin K It's a fairly peppy little engine, just don't expect to lug it around. These things don't really start to make power until about 4-4500 rpm. The good news is with the vvtl you basically get 2 power bands 4500-6200 and 6200 to 8300 (depending on the year). If you've ever driven anything with a 1zz in it the 2zz feels pretty much the same until ~6200rpm. Keep in mind too that the 2zz takes premium gas only and don't bother with an automatic. I hear they're not really any faster than a manual 1zz because the auto struggles to keep the 2zz in lift with only 4 gears.

[@armink9686]

177SCmaro Thanks for the tips! I've only driven a Toyota with a 2zr, and it was an Avensis but it still felt fun thanks to the engine.

[@coloneljaffa]

I would say go for it mate. EP3 is better than a Corolla I would say. Corolla is slightly quicker than Celica but the handling is no where near as good and is a much better to rival an EP3.

[@177SCmaro]

Armin K You're welcome. I competly rebult one and stuck it and a c60 in a Celica GT which I drive to work 26 miles one way 5 days a week. You could say I've gotten...familiar...with the 2ZZ-GE.

[@Bikergal800]

JayEmm I've had the gen 7 celica good fun car I did Bristol to Paris in mine before I went for the dirt cheap celica gen 6 GT always good cheap forgotten cars

[@donavanguevara1806]

I WANT THOSE RIMS FOR MY CELICA!!!

[@tgreen1071]

Great cars. I sold mine a few years ago but brilliant motor all round. Mine was the the 190 version before it became the the T sport and added TC. Great as a everyday car.

[@chrisremovalman5009]

Ive been seriously considering bying the vvtli 190 ( just to hoon about in) the mrs moans at me for reving up the golf 4motion (family car) Problem solved! Glad you did this video 👍

[@JayEmmOnCars]

My pleasure Chris

[@BATF4P]

I 've got a tsport corolla and i love hooning about in it , its the same engine as this celica.

[@Buck3366]

Great review! It’s a bit of a shame that these cars never came with the Corolla Compressor engine. Be nice if you could get a hold of the Corolla for comparison and even more so a TTE compressor variant.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yeah I really want to try the Corolla T-Sport

[@iDayVids]

buck3366 the compressor was never offered for the Celica because it wouldn’t fit under the hood. And it would require further development to configure a hood that would allow it to fit. It does however fit with some cutting, and has been done if you look it up

[@Buck3366]

Davie Blaze Ahhthat would explain it then. It was crying out for something with a bit more performance. It’s a good car that could have been quite a lot more.

[@iDayVids]

buck3366 however it can still be done and there are actually hoods made for the compressor kit

[@nigeltilley1484]

..i had no idea that you could push them like this, i wouldn't or never tried anywhere drive it like that...nice one

[@soundseeker63]

I think the design has aged really well, both inside and out. You wouldn't guess this car launched way back in 1999! Toyota reliability and build quality means most examples that are still out there look pretty presentable. I was never sure if the 190 was a better car than the 140 though....more expensive to buy and run, but not really much quicker in most situatuations because you already have to be going a decent speed before lift can engage...which kinda defeats the object IMO. Still, I guess both are reasonable on fuel and of course, bomb-proof reliable.

[@arcanevoid9199]

190 is a much better car than the 140, its barley more expensive to buy and run. and is definitely quicker overall, fuel economy is really good for what it is

[@soundseeker63]

@@arcanevoid9199 I'm not sure where you are but in the UK it costs quite a bit more to tax and insure, especially if you are a younger driver.

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@soundseeker63 yea that's just the UK though, I'm paying 1200 nzd a year for one. which is about half that in pounds

[@177SCmaro]

I drive one of these 50 miles a day round trip to work and there is only three things I'd change about the car: 1. RWD 2. Needs another 50 to 100hp. 3. RWD

[@177SCmaro]

Almost everyone who owns a 7th gen Celica wishes it was RWD and I'd wager would be willing to pay bit more for rwd. It doesn't add THAT much to the price of the car. Hell, I've even entertained ideas of getting the sheet metal cutter and wielder out and doing it myself. If I wasn't already building another race car I probably would be looking for another Celica to do exactly that to. The Celica's main problem was the time it was sold in. Both in Japan and the States not a lot of people where buying cars like these.

[@177SCmaro]

"The normal pubic" doesn't buy cars like the Celica or S2000 so it's a pretty moot point in that regard. If the 7th gen was RWD it wouldn't necessarily be competing against muscle cars, it would be competing against other sports cars. It could have been a more economical (lower cost, better MPG, famous Toyota reliability) or entry level version of a S2000 but with more options (a rwd version of the 1zz and 2zz would be have been nice). As far as the S2000 being the finest X,Y, and Z that's debatable (I personally always thought the S2000 looked pretty bland, esp. next to a Celica or MR2 of the same year) but not really the point. If I was Toyota I would have kept the Celica RWD from the start, like it used to be - a "poor man's corvette", in a way. And I would convert a Celica to RWD for the same reason I'm putting a Ford 5.0 Coyote into a 2nd gen camaro racecar. Because it's what I want.

[@dddontae]

177SCmaro I feel like that argument about the Celica being RWD completely falls on its face, the Toyota 86 is that concept in reality and look at how everyone’s chewed that car to bits for not having any power, the Celica has even less power and torque then the 86 (I know the Celica GTS is faster then an 86 but thats due to the weight difference), A RWD Celica would’ve suffered the same fate of being chewed out about not having enough power, it’s honestly quite sad what the car community (at least online) has come to, if the car isn’t RWD or doesn’t have at least 300 hp it’s complete and utter dog shit, yet they fail to realize these Celicas have a 0-60 time of 6.5 sec compared to a brand new STI with a 0-60 time of around 5.6 sec keep in mind that’s with over 300hp and AWD, people fail to realize how close these cars actually are and don’t value a car for how it makes you feel instead all they care about is stupid power numbers and if it’s RWD “so I can do some sick drifts bro” It just goes round and round it’s not RWD, it doesn’t have enough power, it’s not RWD, it doesn’t have enough power and then people stop buying them and then they get discontinued and then what’s funny is people wonder why car companies especially the Japanese stopped making affordable sports cars

[@177SCmaro]

Camarolover152 Right. Because we all know how unpopular cars like the Honda S2000 are, if Toyota made the Celica as their own version of an S2000 that resulted in, basically, a smaller, lighter, lower hp, less expensive version of a Supra no one would want it. I'm not really sure there is anything for me to argue/address here since I didn't say any of the things you're implying that I did. I love my little Celica in spite of her shortcomings - I just wish she was rwd and had about 100 more hp because rwd has way better options for traction in most types of racing and ~ 275 - 300 hp from a turbo 4 would let it run with some of the newer v8 mustang's and camaros in a straight line. Nothing wrong with that, is there?

[@n0ti5]

177SCmaro, Just slap a turbo on her then, you wont regret it. I've been running 8 psi for about a year now i just rolled over 160k miles and the engine hasn't been opened up, its still completely oem. Only thing i did do is a 3" turbo back, lightweight flywheel, exedy cerametallic clutch kit and a 2 core aluminum radiator (intercooler gets in the way of the cooling in the summer). I'm debating getting a higher flow fuel pump and upping the boost, and I need to do some duct work for the intercooler to radiator I have a feeling im getting turbulent air between the 2 causing some problems. But as of now in 1st as soon as lift switches over the tires get lit up (i am still running oem wheels and tire size) if you rev it out and catch 2nd in lift, it spins some more. 3rd is when she's grabs traction and blast's through the rev's. She's my daily and its so much fun especially when outrunning most people on the road and they stare at you cross eyed, so many smiles per miles.

[@SCARFACE-gp4fy]

Had 2000 plate 190 went like shit of a shovel loved it.

[@1ZZT223]

Thumbs up because he called the stock height silly.