Does the Toyota Celica Actually Suck? The Downfall of a Legend

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The Toyota Celica sure has had its ups and downs. It has gone from almost a Muscle car like JDM Legend, to a front wheel drive sporty coupe. My question is though...is the hate for the FWD Celica well deserved? Personally since it was against the Honda Civic and many more, the Toyota Celica didn't have a chance. However if you modify these cars...what are they like? Let's go for a drive and find out!
#toyota #celica #toyotacelica
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[@PissBoys]

Low key I’ve always liked how this gen of Celica looked. It’s a shame it got no love and very little aftermarket support.

[@sharpfang667]

theres a lot of aftermarket for at least the powerplant - 2zzge one of the goats if it wasnt for the whole oil pump stuff

[@arcanevoid9199]

⁠@@sharpfang667there really isn’t, and the stock oil pump is fine it is just the first thing to go bang if you loose oil pressure

[@That94CelicaGuy]

That’s how I feel about my 6th gen. Finding parts is an absolute nightmare

[@rushnerd]

High key always loved this Celica and now I own one. There is a lot of aftermarket support to this day and I would say the vast majority of owners absolutely love them. You may want to look around more. Talking in general here about the entire car, not just the engine.

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@rushnerd there really isnt alot of aftermarket support, its not terrible but there is so many things that could be made to improve the car that no one has. or a long list of products that are discontinued with no replacement, development of the chassis peaked in the late 2000s

[@ThatDudeinBlue]

Even if you aren't a fan of this car my god they made this thing a LOOKER.

[@benlecluyse]

#Facts

[@freshcoastdrifttracks6074]

I wanted one SOOO bad when they came out....i knew nothing about cars at the time and was even fsrther from being able to afford it (i was 13). But i thought it looked so damn cool!

[@bigross1990]

Totally agree! I do think that the base model gt without the wing and the ground effects looks cleaner and has aged better, though. But the 2zz makes up for it.

[@BakerWild]

If only it was RWD!

[@Huey_yang]

If you like this car look into the Corolla xrs 2005-2006 year model they’re better. Same motor and same transmission but the xrs revs higher

[@familialgameaholics7618]

One of the most underrated cars of all time. I think there was a negative stigma because it went from 4WD/FWD option to solely FWD, and from turbocharged to NA... But that NA engine is pretty sick.

[@henryfeige8596]

I have never driven a celica, but I assume they drive like a mix between an ek and a dsm. I always wished they didn't kill the awd system because that was part of the reason why the dsms were so much better than the competition like the prelude, probe and the celica.

[@rbarbetta1978]

It was a revvy little engine that came on strong when the VVTLi kicked in. Felt like VTech. But 181hp really wasn't much... even back then.

[@hilmiwali]

It's not about wheel drive system but because of the engine itself isn't produce much power

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@rbarbetta1978 out of a 1.8 it is, dont even see power like that in new cars

[@familialgameaholics7618]

@hilmiwali362 @hilmiwali362 Idk, around its time frame, that was a lot, especially NA. Those are solid motors. The EM1 Civic was more popular but only had 160hp, but the Civic has ALWAYS been FWD. Celica's option to do away with the AWD, I believe, deterred a lot of people who knew Celica for its GT Four variant. It became legendary for its rally derived roots.

[@beefwellington480]

I always thought the Celica looked really good, great body lines and an agro front end.

[@HDmanzano1995]

Same!

[@IronicTonic8]

I owned one for 5 years back they were new. It's an awesome car. Put a good suspension, tires and rims on it and drive it like you stole it. The handling was superb and it was a thrill to drive. Nowadays it's difficult to find one that isn't rusted out with 200k+ miles. I'd buy another one as a commuter car if I could find one in good shape... the fuel economy was amazing.

[@magicwaffl3z]

I've got a stock one with 193k miles if you wanna buy mine 😂

[@v8_sami]

I had a gt with 87k miles that I bought for 1.7k back in the day…. Man if I can find another for that price I am selling my RSX for one. Everything has super high miles and rusted out now.

[@Lofi.z34]

@@v8_sami You're not gonna get that kinda price in Biden's economy lol

[@rushnerd]

You're right about the 200K+ part. For some reason I see them around all the time with 200K+ miles and very high prices. I was lucky enough to find a 142K mile GT-S last year. Just recently I spotted a GT model with only 80K miles for the same price I paid. The GT-S models are really hard to come by with anything remotely reasonable in mileage. Just like my MK3 Supra, it's one of those cars that piss me off when people say they got it for basically free when I had to pay $8K for each. Just how it is now, and you want a nice one.

[@appalachian2a886]

FJB

[@knavekid]

This generation Celica GTS and the RSX TypeS were were the affordable hot hatches of the day. Their high revving engines were a blast to drive. However, the Celica's shifter was problematic for many young owners without much experience with manual transmissions. For this reason, 3rd to 2nd gear mis-shifts were fairly common resulting in many destroyed engines. Toyota did replace many under warranty but it was hit or miss on whether they would cover it. RSX Type-S mis-shifts also occurred, but it was less common. The styling of the Celica was quite radical at the time which I believe detracted from its popularity.

[@JerzeyBird]

My 2004 Celica GT's original clutch lasted over 200k miles. Two mechanics told me it's because I "knew how to drive", but I just think that Toyota made a great car in every way. Such a blast to drive. I bought a Crosstrek last winter for the 4 wheel drive, but for the first six months I felt like I was driving a bouncy castle.

[@kilroywashere9678]

Criminally underrated platform, sharp handling and one of the best 4 cylinders ever made. 2zz ftw.

[@Corbots80]

Lol

[@francel0198]

Reliability left the chat...

[@asmongoldsmouth9839]

​@@francel0198You don't seem to know much about Japanese engines. The 1ZZ and 2ZZ were phenomenal engines. So much that they were used in the Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Matrix, the Corolla and the Lotus.

[@francel0198]

@@asmongoldsmouth9839 And you don't see to know very much of the theme neither, because Lotus use a Variation of this engine, not the same engine, the problem with this engine is high oil consumption, weak intental parts, yes is a good engine is you are looking for fun and cheap option, but for daily is a nightmare. Not all Japanese engine are reliable.

[@kilroywashere9678]

@@francel0198 2zz’s are incredibly reliable if they’re taken care of, early models need an updated fuel pump but outside that no issues.

[@harpella]

I'm 40 and in my teens I loved the look of these! Specially the TRD version! Still do!

[@dragonstorm2074]

You almost did a review on my celica gts about 4 years ago but it broke right before the trip. I'm so glad that you got a good one to show to the community! And I'm really glad you enjoyed the chassis!

[@Loudest_Cricket_]

I've always been a fan of the 7th generation Toyota Celica. I was a young boy when they were new, and thought they looked really radical then. Knowing much more now than I knew then, I still want a GT-S.

[@tutsudo3260]

Get one soon, The price is going up on the cars and parts.

[@captainjosue]

I love this Celica so much. I own 2 of them. They are the funnest car I have ever driven. Totally slept on and I always get compliments on this car. I don't think I'll ever buy another car. The balance on this car is just so good. handling is amazing. It's super lightweight. If you add a performance mod (intake, ECU, turbo or supercharger) every horsepower gained you can feel it. Glad to be driving a rare car.

[@BitterDawn]

Also own two of them since new (02 Panasonic Edition GT-S and 03 GT-S, both manual) and after 21 years of ownership alongside a variety of vehicles, the Celica is my favourite.

[@suzuki100069]

My wife and I went to high school together anyway her dad passed 3 weeks before we graduated but before he did he bought her a 2000 celica the first year of that awesome body style and it was that crazy blue but just brought back memories seeing your thumbnail……. 6 kids later I’m finally able to start looking for one to surprise her this year for her birthday… just started watching your videos love them good job bud thanks for the flashback

[@captainjosue]

Did you get a Celica for your wife?

[@MrJoker42369]

Always was a huge fan of the style of this car. This, the RSX Type S, and Exlipse GSX were three of the absolute best looking cars out of Japan in the late 90's

[@Vinny_Capatony]

The mr2 just rolled over in its grave reading that 😂

[@downlowgo_401]

This car came out in 2000… so..

[@dt6750]

and honda prelude

[@ochocinco8five]

The Eclipse was not Japanese it was domestic DSM

[@arcanevoid9199]

@@downlowgo_401 it was released in 1999

[@bobbyrejek6013]

So happy you didi this video. Up until recently I had a Celica. It was a 2000 GT, and I honestly loved it. Even with the lower horsepower engine it was a fun, zippy car. Lots of great memories with it, and now I have a brand new Hyundai Elantra N.

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

How you like the Elantra

[@bobbyrejek6013]

@@izzyplusplusplus1004 Whoa I missed this comment my bad. The N is AWESOME! It's fast, tires are grippy, it's luxurious, and the interior is amazing. I get comments on it all the time asking wtf it even is (I've made some cosmetic mods and most don't even know the new Elantra looks like that). I will say, it's a bit of a gas guzzler but that's partially due to me hooning it in N mode much of the time. Honestly from 35k OTD, I'm so, so happy.

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

@@bobbyrejek6013 Dang you're making me want one! How's the motor holding up?

[@NathanM007]

Yes! This car is super underrated and it gets that side eye look because people expect it to be rwd likes its parents but its still a super fun car! I have a 01 gts and absolutely love this car to death. Im in the works of finding a oem trd kit which seems to be impossible to find parts in good shape nowadays. Even though it has 180hp its light enough that its still super fun and handles like a dream.

[@adriannones-newman3646]

I have a 2000 GTS 6-speed that's been my daily for 7 years now, me and that car have been through hell and back, from accidents to a grenaded oil pump at 230k miles and rebuilding the transmission myself, put in a used 2zz in and got her back on the road, now at 270k, i honestly wouldn't sell my car ever, i love it more everyday

[@DesuVR]

Even the Hyundai Tiburon was meant to be an 'upgrade' from the Celica in Underground, but in Juiced, the Celica's are quite fun to rip around!

[@tylerhale1696]

Juiced was such a good game, I use to love the Peugeot 308😂 then in reality I learned they sucked

[@vitalino1981]

I remember finding a meta of juiced - underpowering viper, to use it in lower categories, where it shreds them all anyway, despite lowered hp.😅 I believe tuning around viper's settings U could cover up to 4 categories with it)

[@DesuVR]

@@vitalino1981 Yup I did that too! It was so OP. 😆

[@TheV8Pumpkin]

This car is literally the best first car for enthusiasts on budgets :) 2zz engine, sporty low suspension from factory and looks great for a $5000 car

[@dooglemaples1914]

Hey David would be interested to see a more in depth breakdown of the modification, eg: brands, sizing, what order the mods were installed in, reasons for the mods on the cars, power/handling improvements after mods. You explain how the car feels well but I want to know more about them, big fan for years here in Australia, love the content.

[@MRsw2092]

Nice to see these fun little cars starting to get the appreciation they deserve. This generation of the Celica and the MR2s of the same time are great cars that seem to be incredibly under appreciated.

[@MitchDore]

Thank you for making this! We appreciate it! -Mitch

[@gryphon123456]

I cross shopped this and the RSX. I remember this felt quicker and lighter but the RSX felt more substantial. This is a great car when done up right. Totally enjoyable platform.

[@jaakko222]

But what are the price differences nowdays? Idk about the RSX since they really didn’t sell it here in Europe, but Celicas are pretty cheap for what they are. Seems like a pretty good deal to me

[@thegamingguy1]

​@@jaakko222both cars are still underrated daily drivers imo! If you can find a nice one for $3000-4000, they're so hard to beat in terms of driving fun, reliability, comfort, practicality, modding potential etc... People are still TOTALLY asleep to these, but they'll wake up in like 5-7 years when good, fun, affordable enthusiast cars are even harder to find.

[@123PSPs]

​@@jaakko222RSX base models are everywhere and sell for cheap 2-5k the RSX -S are selling for over 10k in good condition . The Celica GT and GTS automatic sell for around 2-5k and Manual GTS good condition low mileage over 7k TRD and Tsunami editions are more sought after

[@omarawilson2853]

@@jaakko222well I’d say the RSX’s main selling point is the K20 that’s in it. It’s a very modifiable platform and has a really strong aftermarket. I imagine if the 2ZZGE had been a 2.0 it probably would’ve favored more. But it was the first 4 cyl to feature VVT and valve lift, something the K series would adopt

[@hitmixhyepock9405]

I had one back in 2002-03, a gt. I loved it for what it was. I needed a turbo though, and an lsd.

[@Rttuning]

I've always really liked these in GTS form. The TRD or Action Package body kit was clean too.

[@SpiritedDriven86]

Had a 02 4AT GT as my 1st car, and a 01 6MT GTS as my 2nd car. I taught myself to drive manual in the GTS. Now i own a 13 6MT GT86. I miss my GTS dearly. Lost it unfortunately. That 2ZZ was the best part of the 7th gen Celica. So punchy and lively, more than my FA20 Boxer 4, which shouldn't be the case, and unfortunately it is. I wanted to keep it forever with getting the 86, but events in life prevented me from doing so. The 86 is one of my dream affordable sports cars and im fortunate enough to get mine, but ill get another Celica GTS in a heartbeat if i could, and make it my daily. I swear that 2ZZ will always be more lively and i miss it, as good as the FA20 is for the 86

[@ThorOdinson-zc2kq]

The 2zzge is one of the fastest revving four cylinders there is. For this and many reasons I built mine, got two extra engines and now have a twin charged 2zzge . Mines in my 06 time attack Exige. Fantastic motors, easy to work on and rock solid reliable

[@SpiritedDriven86]

@@ThorOdinson-zc2kq Thats pretty solid bro! I was in the middle of saving up for a ITB kit for my 2ZZ Celica until I lost it unfortunately, put the money on a down payment for the 86

[@theninethrees8044]

The 2ZZ are finally getting some love. I love my Matrix XRS, the “Lift” or “Vtec” kicks in better in the Matrix. It’s such an underrated hot hatch, fun as hell in the straight lines but handling wise the Celica is better because its sleek and nimble.

[@gurpreetsoomal5408]

I just sold my Matrix XRS with the factory 2zz and short-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. No one would believe me that it redlined to 8200 rpm from the factory, even Honda guys were surprised at this. I didn't do any performance mods on mine, but I can see how it can be a fun car at high rpms.

[@justsniped]

I’ve had 3 celicas in the past, a 95, 02 and 03, got tons of compliments and definitely loads of fun to drive even if you have the slower engine. Makes me wanna buy another 👀❤️

[@petlover651]

My buddy Bernie!!!! So amazing to see this video finally! Great job man!✌🏼

[@kaffielekobold8695]

This makes me miss my 2000 GT-S. That 2zz is such an amazing motor, and the car was an absolute blast thru empty twisties.

[@Txzone101]

That was my first car, I enjoyed revving it out to 8200 all the time. I think people slept on them because of the honda hype... everyone was a fan of the integra and rsx and this was in a way toyota's version. would really like to see someone drive this and an integra or an rsx back and forth... ones that are as close to stock as possible, that would make a great video.

[@NewSparky97]

I've had two of these, one GT auto and a manual GT-S. Even though I technically "traded up" to the VA STi I still have, I dearly miss the GT-S. It just had so much personality, the high revs of the 2zz, the vvti, everything. My attainable dream garage right now is another GT-S, an old small truck or kei truck, and my STi. Weekender, track car, daily.

[@MannyCruzal3]

Good to have you back David😌 glad you’re feeling better

[@tristanhnguyen]

I always love these as a kid. Didn’t like the MR2 Spyder much. But now I have both 😂 both are good cars and are underrated. But their underrated-ness end up leaving people with really good shocking first experience imo.

[@Mesder13]

I'm getting ready to 2zz swap my MR2 spyder at the moment and watching these is getting me hyped! Maybe one day I'll get David to drive it... 😁

[@theninethrees8044]

Nicee! I got a Matrix XRS and a MR-S, I originally wanted to do the swap but not I might go Turbo 😅

[@Mesder13]

@@theninethrees8044 Sweet! I slept on these early 00s Toyotas for too long, they never got the attention they deserved

[@supernova1562]

man those backroads of chesapeake/virginia beach are something else to drive on. glad i clicked on this to see the hometown lol

[@tonyscool200]

I own my 7gen since 2017 and it was my first and only car. You can't imagine how much joy it brings me when i let friends drive it and and they are amazed by how good jt feels to drive and push it around ❤

[@xx_mecoboy_xx]

Love the Trial Try force kit definitely getting it for mine, i also have the TRD wing.

[@2zzcam594]

I owned a 2ZZ Celica for a long time now and still own it. Glad you changed your mind on the car. Also glad you had your hands on a 2zz 6 Speed Model to really appreciate the high rpm range. I agree with a lot of what you said. Especially considering they kept the name Celica while downgrading the platform tremendously in comparison to the GT4. Keep up the good work. Keep searching for the niche cars.

[@alstound]

Yes, but it’s not a downgrade from the ST205 GT-Four platform. This is a successor to the FWD Celica, and they just didn’t build an AWD turbo model.

[@cryaesthetic3603]

I own a 1zz Celica 6 speed. A great car too however that's the euro spec that had a more aggressive vvt and came with the same transmission as the 2zz. Incredibly satisfying

[@thegamingguy1]

The chassis is not really a downgrade, and that's exactly the problem with the stigma of this car. I think most people don't take the time to think about and really wrap their head around the fact that an AWD turbo rally inspired car is going to drive much differently than a FWD based Civic SI competitor, but people literally hate thinking bro. I get it, I'm dumb too, but damn they ain't make no fuckin sense sometimes. Instead of taking it for what it is, they complain it's not what they want like Fortnite kids crying to the devs tryna get shit patched out. Just play the game bro damn.

[@2zzcam594]

@alstound yes it was a great successor in terms of the FWD aspect. Toyota did a great job. However, the platform as a whole would be greatly enhanced with an AWD variant of the 7th gen. I am sure an AWD conversion would be much easier if that were a reality. 6th gen engine conversion seem to have more potential as well. 2zzSlow recently swapped his 6th gen with a TRD supercharged v6. Something not really heard of in the 7th gen community. That's why I see the 7th gen is considered a downgrade from the 6th gen. I am still quite happy with my GTS, though. The 7th gen did what the engineers intended very well.

[@2zzcam594]

@alstound I agree. I believe the Euro spec 1zz also came with rear disc brakes whole the North American version came with rear drum. Not sure why Toyota would do that.

[@neotestme]

People used to tell me that if they didn't 2nd before I hit lift in 2nd then they couldn't beat me. Lol. I miss my 02' Celica. Would be nice be able to afford one again. Stay lifted my friend and keep up the great work on the videos. Gigidy.

[@BenjiDubss]

The 7th gen celica GT-S was my first car back when I was 19. While all my friends were driving turbos (including my twinb brother) I was reving the piss out of my celica. I money shifted mine and it lived, my brother money shifted his bug eye WRX and blew the motor lmao. The 2ZZ-GE is a tank.

[@cg57schannel96]

Had both the Celica GT-S(2001) 6 speed with the TRD body kit and TRD exhaust sounded amazing with lift!! Recently got a 06 Acura RSX Type S and from owning both the only thing I liked stock for stock about the Celica was the handling it was amazing nice and heavy feel compared to the RSX but everything else the RSX beat it in my opinion. The downfall was the lift didn’t hit as hard as VTEC and came on super late in the power band but really liked it as my first car to learn manual.

[@arcanevoid9199]

lift should be hitting the exact same if not harder, and vtec engages like 200rpm earlier then lift

[@justsumguy2u]

I had 2, both GT's with the auto trans. Overall, I loved them. It's a front wheel drive car that handles a lot like it's rear wheel drive---the Celica will drift. There's also very little body roll. One drawback is that in GT trim with the auto trans, acceleration is pretty weak. I wanted a 5 speed model, but both times when I was looking for one, there wasn't one to be found. I'd buy another, but they've become quite difficult to find in decent shape

[@One_LuvZ]

I remember an old classmate who had one of these and used it for autocross. Always found them to be a good looking car with tons of potential if the aftermarket gave them a chance.

[@its.Andy1]

I remember my dad actually had one of these. He was always a Trans Am and Foxbody Mustang guy back in the 90’s then once he started a family, he got rid of them and got out of the car scene for almost 10 years. He then got the Toyota Celica in 2006. It was so clean but not overly done where it looks ricey. Unfortunately he got rear ended back in 2010 and it was totaled.

[@JOROM90]

I love these. Styling, handling, high revving engine, and a 6spd manual. Are you kidding me! I never found a clean one for myself, but owned 2 Corolla XRS's with this same engine and transmission. Crazy underrated.

[@cameronyeager7635]

I remember playing around with this car a ton in Underground 1 & 2 & tbh I never minded the looks. I think ppl just take the aesthetics for granted. It seems solid for what it is tho platform wise & pretty beginner friendly considering the motor. I have seen a couple of em in person & I'd imagine it's a joy to drive. Also color wise, I personally think they look best in silver it rly defines the lines well.

[@j.chenmuas]

It was a good starter car in the game as well 👌

[@phreum]

I owned this car was I was 18. My parents wanted me to get FWD because of winter. It was a great car. I went to college where you can take this back mountain road. It was a blast driving it up and down the mountains giving it all it had.

[@simonbowen4254]

The 2ZZ-GE (VVTL-i) is an incredible engine. Owned one for a couple years, the 'Lift' at 6200 RPM is extremely addictive and sounds amazing. I would love one of those engines in a Honda EF 9 lol.

[@highthai7]

I always thought the full body kit on the Celica GTS made them look much better.

[@s5SnipEmo]

After having a tuned Mk7 Golf R and an AWD Stinger GT2, I have since started appreciating simpler cars more. Driving a cheap reliable car hard is a lot of fun and you stay out of trouble a lot more. Also you save so much money. I have really been enjoying my 6Speed E210 Hatch.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

"Driving a cheap reliable car hard is a lot of fun and you stay out of trouble a lot more." Never a truer word hath been spoken!

[@LivingToDye]

I remember in highschool, a friend of mine got the “sport “ version and we had such a blast taking turns driving it down our local mountain. We thought we were the next touge masters lol. It definitely had character.

[@Golf2Quick0]

Had a 2000 GTS with a 6 speed manual and the TRD body kit. Looked great and ran well. When the VVTL-i kicked in, that Yamaha based head came alive.

[@MrJcoupe96]

A highly underrated car (in GT-S form). I saw these things when they were still new in the early 00's at street races, handing MANY people their a$$es. It may LOOK heavy but it's actually about the same weight of an Integra and has a high revving 180hp out of the box, mated to a 6-speed tranny. I'll never forget seeing one of these battle it out with an Integra Type R at the races and being a Honda guy myself, I was super impressed.

[@messageman9786]

Yeah seen a couple races as well but i much like the 1zz one bcs of its much more acceptable turbo builds as much as i love this car this is a good starter car for many ppl,my dad drove an integra type r about 10 years ago and his friend with the celica 143 whp said that he should try and actually enjoyed it...i sure as hell want to buy a Celica for my daily

[@uohtreB]

Awesome Celica ! Looks like really it handles well and looks cool. But those chrome taillight covers, got to go 😂

[@wiillsmithsacuk3287]

Yeah man my 2002 gts was perfect with the trd package no need to change anything on the styling just suspension lighter wheels and that's about it

[@rlgonzalez04]

Not chrome covers. The taillights are chrome and he added smoke vinyl. The taillights are from the '04 Tsunami edition. They're a chrome version of the updated '03+ taillights.

[@zoom868]

You should try a 1zz-fe in the base Pontiac Vibe that I have. Also just starting to upgrade it and my first one is a new intake.😎👍

[@genebyron1312]

I owned a white 1974 Celica ST with the red stripes. Loved driving that car! I remember it fondly. The pick up and cornering was really special. When I got married my wife loved driving it too. That was a long time ago :(!

[@leonhart423]

That damn C-One hood. I usually thought most of the after market hoods looked tacky as hell for this car, but that one looks alright. Kinda sad there isn't a supercharger or turbo kit on this car with that hood but still happy to see the 7th gen getting love. Also I think Liquid Silver Metallic is the best color on the 7th gen, only to be outdone by Zephyr Blue Metallic on the face lift models.

[@gnardicles]

The supercharger comes soon! 👀

[@thekrimsonchin6023]

@@gnardicles The NewCelica legend himself :O

[@elmerr1285]

i love my zephyr blue celica but i have no clue where i can get paint for the trd parts i got so i can paint match them

[@thegamingguy1]

​@@gnardicleshey man do you know what shift knob that is? I wanted something like it for mine but couldn't quite find the right one.

[@thekrimsonchin6023]

@@grug69 Gonna repaint my liquid silver to thundercloud soon. It's a beautiful color.

[@kaydenjazz7701]

definitely a great first car and the 2zz is slept on!

[@mickeymang6]

Yes, the MR2 community has been building those for a while now.

[@subie25i30]

I loved these when they came out Bc they did so well with mods. Glad to see people still modding them nicely.

[@NovaHendrix]

Wow this video is out my area crazy to actually see a car review so close to home

[@nickjacobsss]

This one looks so good. I don’t like them stock, but the owner of this really did a great job making it look mean

[@grantkendrick277]

If I could find a cheap clean v6 Tiburon id really enjoy playing with that. Top gear said they were really solid fwd sports coupes at the time

[@rushking19]

He needs to review a clean / built tiburon.

[@grantkendrick277]

@@rushking19 gotta find one first lol. I've only seen one Tiburon in the last 5 years that had a straight body and not crappy paint

[@rushking19]

@@grantkendrick277 they are out there . They pop up every now and then .

[@EmperorHelix]

My 2002 GT-S has 62k miles on it; bought it 2 years ago at 41k miles; previous owner was a multi-millonaire that passed and his estate was auctioned off. I love this car and take maintenance extremely seriously. Will one day change the color to dark green pearl and install a turbo.

[@SCarolinaX]

Growing up, we had a blue 80s celica. I loved it. I remember my step dad having chrome rims on it, a stereo, speakers. I remember because we lived in LA… and it got stolen like once maybe? But for sure remember it was broken into several times. Aaah, great memories.

[@UmmmmRamos]

My first car! Great car and fun

[@ThatDudeinBlue]

What an awesome first car!

[@PANTYEATR1]

I remember when these Celicas came out. The GTS had a warning label on the sun visor about how fast this thing could reach illegal speed. I've always liked this Gen of Celica, but i think they got a bad rep from that oil pump issue.

[@rushnerd]

Lol that is AWESOME. I'd love to put that label on mine if it was even possible to find it anymore. I wonder if there are pictures?

[@PANTYEATR1]

@@rushnerd maybe a Google search will show you what it looks like. It was a paper label wrapped around the visor.

[@rushnerd]

@@PANTYEATR1 Yeah that would be extremely rare new car stuff. I'll ask around the NewCelica forums, but I doubt anyone but owners who bought it new would know about it. Still humorous. I only have an automatic, but first gear goes up to 45 freakin' MPH and fast.

[@YourGhostInside]

We were lucky here in Australia, we got both the Celica and the Sportivo Corolla which both came with the 2ZZ engine. I have a corolla and Stock V Stock I would take it over a civic any day, and so would my civic friends after they've driven it. There's actually a fair amount of aftermarket support for them now, and certainly some wild builds happening. There's a guy in Sydney that has one making north of 430hp and it's just absolutely stupid. Thanks David for reviewing such a cool Celica, wish there was more of them around!

[@infadelakainf]

I remember my friend had one in like 03, and he always drove it at 10/10s. Super sketchy on English roads. Great video

[@AliceC993]

I've always had the thought in the back of my head about swapping a 2ZZ into my '99 Corolla. Would it be blazingly fast? Absolutely not. Would it be fun? 100%.

[@nathanmcclymont3950]

lots of fun. i have a Runx Z which is basically a JDM carolla hatch with the 2zzge and 6sp manual. goes nuts and doesn't get noticed by police

[@AliceC993]

@@nathanmcclymont3950 There was a version of the E120 (9th gen) Corolla, for 2005 and 2006, in the US that received a slightly derated 2ZZ-GE from the factory, known as the XRS. No such version existed for the E110 (8th gen) sadly, which ran from 1998-2002 in the US. All of those received the standard 1ZZ-FE, without VVT-i for '98 and '99 and making 120 hp, receiving VVT-i and +5 hp for MY 2000.

[@DeepRacer-zr4yp]

@@nathanmcclymont3950 In europe it was just called the Corolla T-Sport. It was also a hatch with the 2zzge and the C60 6sp manual

[@jeast417]

Celica gets hate while civic, and rsx gets praise

[@icekole9978]

Facts

[@oddmanout1807]

Love episodes like this. The attainable vehicles draw me in.

[@Mrb00st]

Never understood the hate on these, they're super underrated and probably my favorite celica generation. The GT with the 1zfe is just a commuter car, but the GT-S really is something special, it reminds me of a DC2 Integra GSR at a time when Acura had gone a little more refined with the dc5 rsx-s. It was lighter, angrier, weirdly hard-core. So fun! The 2zzge has long been one of my favorite motors.

[@hamie63_m]

Sad it got so much hate with that engine and those looks just because the name was once RWD. But an RSX was an instant classic

[@rahxe80]

I remember the 7th gen being pretty popular, every body wanted one especially after the action package got released. I remember going to the dealership drooling over a red gts

[@zubiddydoodoopop]

I owned 2 2zz Celicas. First was auto, second was stick. Both were great but both were consumed by midwest rust. Both also needed an extra 1000 rpm to stay in the aggressive cam for good power. The Elises happened to get an extra 1000 rpm to work with with their 2zz motors. I'd love to know what changed between the Celica & the Elise to get that extra range because I'd love to do a build once I know what to do once I find one in better shape.

[@arcanevoid9199]

nothing changed, its purely ecu limited

[@mightywings314]

​@@arcanevoid9199Apexi FC fixed that.9k rpm

[@Nub00005]

the 2003 Pontiac Vibe GT ECU had a lift point of 5800rpm instead of 6200rpm so that was a pretty easy part to get that made it a little more fun to drive

[@thatbullarod]

that crossover to vvti is insane in this car you can really hear it reminds me of the good old vtec crossover lol

[@amcezm0n3y47]

I thought these were so much cooler than their contemporary competition. The civic, integra, and ser sentra were all certainly cool in their own rights but the high strung nature of the 2zz and the sublime handling characteristics made for a fantastic driving experience.

[@josephfranzen9196]

When I was 17 this was my first car for my senior year. My cousin sold me his 01 GTS for $5k which I thought was a great deal in 04. I had planned on modding it with my enlistment bonus as I shipped to BCT/OSUT at Benning two weeks after graduation. When I finally finished at Benning and went into Airborne school I ended up with the 82nd 1st/504th at Bragg. A week after I brought my Celica down I sold it and bought an 05 EVO MR which 18+ years later I still have as my weekend / track car. I’ve always wondered what the Celica would have been like had I kept it. I did like the ZZ and thought it was cool having something different than the dozens of B swapped Civic’s running around but it couldn’t touch the 4G63.

[@ThereIsNoSpoon4]

Love my 2000 GTS, wish I had more money to treat her how she deserves.. Clear coat has started to peel off, she's really showing her age paint wise. Engine bay is immaculate though. JDM imported engine, rebuilt transmission, short throw shifter and some various other things. I love her very much.

[@davidgoodwin6997]

A 7th gen GT was my first car. Sold it to my sister almost 15 years ago, and got it back from her in 2021 when she bought a new car. Once I find a good donor it’s gonna get a 2zz/6 speed swap, but until then I’ll keep cruising around in it as is.

[@kiefershanks4172]

Someone in my condo has a nice silver Celica on nice wheels and keeps his car nice and clean. Honestly, it's a really nice car. I really like the liftback and the trunk space it has while maintaining the sporty coupe look. These are way more unique now that two door FWD coupes are pretty rare these days.

[@austinwebbcreative]

Glad you’re feeling better David!!

[@jaymayjay315]

I really like the bang sound when shifting to the next gear…. Sound so good

[@thegamingguy1]

Ayo thanks for shedding some light on this super underrated car man! Just a few months ago my dad and I picked up a 2000 GTS with only 113k miles for $4100, and honestly dude I feel like we freaking stole it! I truly think in the coming years once people move on from 90's cars to 00's cars, people might start waking up to these and realize it's very comparable to both the 6th and 8th gen Civic SI, but most people can still actually afford to buy one of these! Such a great ownership experience for the price. Thanks again David!

[@yanb1981]

Thats what I'm talking about David, glad you got to enjoy some NA 2zz action. Now you gotta review my 05 Corolla XRS! Imagine that same sweet 2zz pull in a sleepy ass corolla. I'm in Atlanta too. Anyway, solid review, always glad to see some 2zz love

[@MrDaoby]

Should look into the Corolla XRS that came with the 2zz if you're a fan of VVTLi

[@Magowin]

I owned one new when F&F came out the same year and I remember seeing one in the movie it just wasn’t a featured car it was one of the background cars. I loved that car handled like it was on rails and got a 14.7 in the 1/4 with it with just a RMM intake.

[@giovannigamez8901]

I always like the trd edition look with the rear wing

[@ejaokay]

These cars are a ton of fun. They did Vtec better than vtec, I've driven one a few times and it's like a motorcycle with 4 wheels because it redlines at 8500 rpm. They're also a very good looking car and the styling has been timeless. Put this next to a civic si the same year, which one looks better and more modern?

[@zandern9489]

Glad you got to experience the Celica difference sir. Appreciate this. Love my 88 GT and GTS. (Shhh, the GTS is a bit more fun in a different way tho) Truly a thrill to drive, very fun. While a bit underpowered and slightly heavier than others, it’s the rpm and gearing for me. Toyota did something amazing here. It loves 2nd and 3rd. 7400 redline and it just keeps pulling. Even with a lighter flywheel it maintains its thrill. And even though the shifter (on mine) isn’t near as good as most Honda’s, it’s very fun to rev match and take corners. The handling is great and yes, just feather that throttle or give a bit more in corners and it will do what you want.

[@GarrettsGear]

I would absolutely freak if i saw this thing in person lol. I would be completely shocked that someone actually put that much love into one, i LOVE this car...

[@B_Y22]

When I was in middle school in 2001 I wanted either a ford lightning or celica gts and looking back there was only a little over $10k difference between starting msrps but now the value difference is way more than that.

[@mondomoleno.3404]

Boyracer versions of Toyota cars are always slept on, but always good. I knew a guy who had a Corolla XRS and it was a blast. The little differences between it and my base model Corolla, even aside from the engine, made it so much better

[@soopaghetto]

I never thought id see a celica of that era looking this good! Bernard put in the work! shout out from the 757

[@Cobra_427]

Those taillights give me 2010 F-150 vibes with the chrome, but the car pulls it off really well, done up right these cars look great and it has a nice exhaust note too

[@collinwaugh939]

a very underrated slept on car i owned one alongside my civic type -r and it was a great sporty cheap car to have fun in !

[@NuckinFutzCrust]

While your at it, can you review a 02 Mazda Speed Protege and the 02 Nissan Sentra SE-R?

[@bigross1990]

So the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th were all primarily fwd. but 4th, 5th, and 6th had the all trac awd models. So really they were mainly fwd from 85-06. I had a base model 7th gen with a 5-speed, and it was a great runner even well into the 200k mile range. Not as cool at the 2zz though.

[@mikeinsi87able]

I can hear the music in the background playing as I'm on the modifications screen. Riders on the stormmmmmm 😎😎😎

[@Brancovtn65]

I love lightweight high rpm NA vehicles, but this car with an AWD system paired to the 3SGTE would have made for an extremely capable opponent.