Toyota Celica Coupe (1999 - 2006) 1.8 VVTLi T Sport 3d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

You're different, and willing to sacrifice certain creature comforts for a pedigree sportscar with history and pizazz. It looks great, is reliable an is superb fun to drive. A sensible and maybe over-looked option compared to the likes of the S2000, 350Z and TypeR. Arguably it's futuristic styling with outlast all of the above, as will the car itself if previous Celicas are anything to go by.

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

They love it. It has character and poise, and doesn't rattle the windows, not unless you go all chavy on it and fit some god awful exhaust (and garish alloys, and tinted windows and maybe a jap logo or two...urgh why!?).

Would you buy this car again and why?

From a reliability and performance point of view, I'm left wanting nothing really. Better fuel economy and a quieter, more comfortable ride would be my main reasons for choosing something else.

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably a diesel, most likely an Alpha Romeo Brera, Seat Leon FR or a VW Sirocco.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid a few hundred over the going rate for age/miles because it was pristine and had excellent service history. I think I got a good deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Reliability, performance, looks, previous experience of owning Celicas.

What was the dealer like?

They just happened to have the right model/colour I was after and offered a free warranty and new service + MOT when I bought the car.

What's it like to drive?

Power is all at the top end and it really belts it at you which can be quite unnerving. Once you learn to handle it, you'll have Fiesta STs eating your dust. The ride isn't the most comfortable. I've had to get a small back support as the seats have terrible lumbar area support, which can make your back ache on long journeys. It's also hard over bumps and quite noisy - the first mod most people do is to fit larger tires (215 vs 205) and install sound proofing. Other than this, it's like a go-kart. It weighs just over a ton - less than a Vauxhall Corsa VXR so it's handling is suitably tight with a nifty turn in. Braking is okay, but got better when I replaced the discs and pads with Mtec groved and EBC yellowstuff pads.

What's it like to park?

Very easy. Excellent all-round visibility and adjustable mirrors, plus its only a little larger than most hatchbacks.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The timing chain developed a squeak but this was fixed on its last service. Didn't impact on performance though. The T Sport alloys are very soft and unfortunately mine have developed buckles - common apparently which is a shame as they look great. Uneven tyre wear is also an issue, but again, nothing really wrong with the car itself.

What's most practical about your car?

It has a large boot, admittedly gained from lacklustre rear seat space, but if you only carry one other adult and maybe a small child it's fine. Fuel economy - the tank is 55litres, and this cost around £75 to fill at £1.35 a litre. This will get you between 350 and 400 miles average use which I don't think is too bad for an 8yr old 7s 0-60 190bhp car.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The leather interior is very nice, but really the look and feel of the car is the best bit about it.