Toyota Celica

vs

Porsche 914

Japan vs Germany — 1970 vs 1973

Toyota Celica (1970)
Porsche 914 (1973)
Specifications
Celica TA22 GT914 2.0
Horsepower115 hp100 hp
Torque105 lb-ft116 lb-ft
Engine Size1,588 cc1,971 cc
0-60 mph9.8 sec9.8 sec
Top Speed118 mph115 mph
¼ Mile17.2 sec17.2 sec
Weight2,105 lbs2,138 lbs
Wheelbase2,425 mm2,450 mm
Length4,165 mm3,985 mm
Units Produced95,000
Original MSRP$2,798$5,299
Value (Excellent)$65,000$35,000
Collectibility7/107/10
Rarity6/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1970 Toyota Celica TA22 GT brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 answers with quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1970 Toyota Celica TA22 GT versus 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Toyota Celica TA22 GT producing 115 hp and the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 delivering 100 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Celica uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,588 cc, while the Porsche 914 relies on a Flat-4 SOHC with 1,971 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.