Toyota Celica Coupe (1999 - 2006) 1.8 VVTi 3d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I suppose it says i am a bit of a poser lol. On a warm summers day with the shades on you do get some looks, especially from the ladies ;).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all love the looks! Some call it the Ferrari, others the Red Devil. However, my dad complains about it being too low (even though it is standard) and my bigger friends complain about the lack of space in the back. I dont care though, i have my seat in the spacious front ;).

Would you buy this car again and why?

Probably! i would consider the 190bhp GT version with the cool body kit. I probably wouldnt buy a 140bhp version again, just because i have already owned one and would want to try something different next time.

What are you likely to buy next?

Toyota GT86, Hilux, Honda Accord Type S, Civic Type R, Lexus IS, Kia Pro Cee'd, Hyundai Velostar. i dont know to be honnest, i dont plan on changing for another 2 or 3 years so i will see what is available at the time, but i will be considering the cars listed above.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,750

When did you buy the car?

March 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, i got a late 2003 car that was built to 2004 spec, with only 31,000 miles for £3750, with full service history.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I loved the looks, it had very low mileage, was cheaper to insure than a mk4 Golf diesel, running costs are reasonable.

What was the dealer like?

Private sale.

What's it like to drive?

Great!! Driving position is perfect, seats are very comfortable, the centre console rises up just enough to use as a perfect armrest, everything is placed perfectly, good all round visibility, and the sound system is good! The 140bhp isnt the fastest car on the road, but it isnt slow either. just dont race any tuned turbo diesels at the lights becauls the Celica doesnt get up to much speed until you hit 4000rpm, and by then the diesel will have smoked you with all its torque. once they get going though, they will sit on the bumper of a 170bhp diesel Scirocco. i love the way they are quiet when you want them to be, with very little road noise, then once you hit the lift at 4000rpm, you hear the rip off the exhaust. even standard they sound really good!!

What's it like to park?

Easy!! It is as easy to park as a Nissan Micra. I do think the spoiler helps with this as it allows you to see where the back is. the wing mirrors are quite large so you can see pleanty to the sides, and the power steering makes turning simple. There is good all round visability. parking sensors would be nice, but not necessary. i find it easier to park than my friends 2004 ford fiesta!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. The front brake caliper was sticking and needed replaced a couple of months after buying the car, but i suppose that could of been because it wasnt used very often before i bought it. For MOT the front shock needed replaced but that could be put down to a combination of my driving and the numerous bumps and pot holes around my area. and thirdly, the big issue i have had with it is water leaks. recently i have fixed 2, one in the roof and one at the tail gate. They are easily fixed, but finding them is a nightmare. apart from that she goes 100% word of warning though, parts are really expensive!!

What's most practical about your car?

Boot is quite big and very useable. i dont think these care were designed to be very practical though, and if practiality is an important feature in a car for you, then this car isnt made for you, look elsewhere.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Half digital display is a nice touch heated wing mirrors are a good job too.