Toyota Sports 800

vs

Toyota Altezza

Japan vs Japan — 1965 vs 1998

Toyota Sports 800 (1965)
Toyota Altezza (1998)
Specifications
Sports 800 UP15Altezza RS200 Z-Edition
Horsepower45 hp210 hp
Torque42 lb-ft159 lb-ft
Engine Size790 cc1,998 cc
0-60 mph19.5 sec6.8 sec
Top Speed96 mph143 mph
¼ Mile21.2 sec15.0 sec
Weight1,279 lbs2,822 lbs
Wheelbase2,000 mm2,670 mm
Length3,580 mm4,400 mm
Units Produced3,131
Value (Excellent)$120,000$30,000
Collectibility8/106/10
Rarity9/105/10
The Verdict

The 1998 Toyota Altezza RS200 Z-Edition emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 and 1998 Toyota Altezza RS200 Z-Edition share a manufacturer in Toyota, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Toyota brand. The 1998 Toyota Altezza RS200 Z-Edition holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 45 hp, a 165-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Sports 800 uses a Flat-2 OHV displacing 790 cc, while the Toyota Altezza relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Toyota Altezza RS200 Z-Edition edges ahead at 6.8 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1543 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 commands a significant premium over the 1998 Toyota Altezza RS200 Z-Edition, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.