Toyota Celica GT-R (1973)Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Toyota Celica GT-R TA22

1973 — Japan

Muscle Era (1960-1974)Sports CarJapaneseRacing HeritageInvestment GradeRally LegendsHomologation SpecialsDesign IconsJDM Legends
Engine1,588 cc Inline-4 DOHC
Power115 hp
Torque105 lb-ft
Transmission5-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleCoupe
Weight2,138 lbs
0–60 mph10.2 sec
Top Speed109 mph
Production1,657 units
BrakesDisc / Drum
SuspensionIndependent, coil springs, MacPherson struts / Live axle, leaf springs, trailing arms

Toyota Celica GT-R TA22

The 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 represents the ultimate expression of the first-generation Celica. Built for homologation in Japanese touring car racing, the GT-R featured the legendary 2T-G twin-cam engine producing 115 horsepower, a close-ratio 5-speed transmission, and lightweight construction with aluminum hood and doors. Only 1,657 examples were produced across 1973-1974, making it exponentially rarer than standard Celicas. The GT-R dominated Japanese motorsport and established Toyota's commitment to performance engineering that continues today with models like the GR Yaris and GR86.

$55,000 – $120,000

Extremely rare with most examples remaining in Japan. Verify authentic GT-R specification with 2T-G DOHC engine and aluminum body panels. Many standard Celicas have been modified to mimic GT-R appearance. Check for rust in floor pans and rear subframe mounting points. Original parts are nearly impossible to find. Racing history adds significant value if properly documented.

Built at Toyota's Tahara plant specifically for racing homologation. Production was limited to just 1,657 units across two years. All were JDM-only and featured special GT-R badging.