- An example of the rare JDM homologation special spent over 14 years parked next to a UK home.
- Moss and some rust have covered the bodywork.
- The interior and mechanical components are in better condition than expected.
The Toyota Celica GT-Four is a desirable classic, with the ST185 generation having aged gracefully since its debut in 1989. A rare example of the fifth-gen homologation special appeared on sale in the UK, after being neglected for a long time.
The poor Celica spent over 14 years resting next to a house, exposed to the harsh UK weather. As a result, the bodywork has been covered with dirt and moss, looking like an image from a post-apocalyptic future.
More: Toyota Celica Rumored To Return With Turbo 2.0-Liter Engine And AWD
Despite enduring decades of harsh weather conditions, the Japanese sportscar has minimal signs of body rust, mainly around the windshield and on the underbody. Still, a deep clean is required to have the full picture. In any case, it would make a fantastic restoration project, possibly adding the iconic WRC-inspired livery with red and green graphics on a white body.
The condition of the interior is far better than anyone would imagine by looking at the moss-covered bodywork. The white leather-upholstered bucket seats appear to be in great shape, as with the Momo steering wheel and the aluminum shifter.
andrbyrn / eBay
According to the listing on eBay, this is not just a regular GT-Four, but one of the “very few” RC models imported from Japan. The RC debuted in 1991 as the JDM-spec equivalent of Europe’s Carlos Sainz Limited Edition, and Australia’s Group A Rallye. The model served as a homologation special for the 1992 WRC season, with a limited production of 5,000 units and a few extra features compared to the standard GT-Four.
More specifically, the RC was distinguished by a slightly different front bumper with more intakes, a water-to-air-intercooler (instead of air-to-air), a shorter gear knob for the model-specific E151F five-speed manual gearbox, GT-Four RC emblems on the seatbacks, and a numbered plaque on the center console.
More: This 1972 Toyota Celica Was Collecting Dust In A Garage For 20 Years
Under the hood, lies the original turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 222 hp (165 kW / 225 PS) and 304 Nm (224 lb-ft) of torque when it left the factory, sending power to all four wheels via a full-time 4WD system. The engine has had better days but is reportedly still running.
According to the seller, the brake rotors and pads have been removed, due to a burst brake pipe. This means that the buyer will need a tow truck to take delivery, and a lot of elbow grease to bring the Celica back to roadworthy condition.
The WRC homologation special is located in Rochdale, Lancashire, looking for a new home. The listing price on eBay is £7,100 ($9,213), far less than the price of a pristine GT-Four these days. Would you save this youngtimer from the mold or let it pass?
