The Toyota Celica was introduced at the 1970 Tokyo Motor Show. Production started in December of that year. Originally, there was only the notchback Coupe.
This is a regular Tomica release 1600GT model. Available engines ranged from 1400cc to 2200cc 4-cylinder models, depending on the market. But the 2.2l version was apparently reserved for the US market.
The Celica was based on the Carina platform, and followed the American “Pony” car example of basing a sporty looking coupe on a rather tame family sedan. In size and performance, the Celica however was closer to European models such as the Opel Manta or Ford Capri. The style was unashamedly American though. Especially the 1st Gen Liftback Coupe, which really looked like a Japanese Mustang from the rear.
The Liftback Prototype “SV-1" was presented in 1971 and production started in 1973. The model shown here is a Tomica Limited 2000GT. Now, there were a plethora of different versions and minor facelifts in different markets, really too much to go into here. But both Tomica models here represent the first production versions.
Production of the first generation stopped in 1977. The Celica lived on until 2006, eventually becoming a FWD sports coupe, and 4WD Rally Monster, and a few other things. Hell, there even was a 4-door “Celica Camry” sedan, though that was luckily confined to the Japanese market. And every generation of Celica still has their fans - but for me, the first Gen were the prettiest. I’d happily have one in my driveway.
So what about the Wild ones then? Here are two “Aoshima Grand Champions” Celicas - again a Notchback and a Liftback. Both are customized “shakotan” style - low ground clearance, stanced wheels and big spoilers. That style was made popular by the “Shakotan Boogie” Manga series - life imitating art again.
Personally, my choice would be a standard Liftback - probably in yellow. But I wouldn’t be unhappy with any of these in 1:1. And I’m glad that people are finally starting to restore them properly around here. But I don’t mind the customized ones either, whatever floats your boat.
So what First Gen Celica is missing in small scale? I can really only think of one: The RV-1 Prototype.
That was a shooting brake version shown at the same time as the SV-1 Prototype that became the Liftback. But unlike the Liftback, no Shooting Brake ever reached production. For Shame.
Just look at it - Gullwings! Dot Tail Lights! Even a tow hook! What was the tow hook for? For the custom made trailer of course!
I think TLV absolutely need to, no, MUST make a model of this one.