1976 brought not just the new Liftback version of the popular Celica, but all the Celicas had significant improvements, including a longer wheelbase, wider track, bigger and wider wheels and tires, among others. It was practically a whole new generation. And ride, handling and braking were all significantly improved, in areas where its predecessor had been a bit weak. The result was a better car overall.
There was a good Car & Driver article comparing the styling of the liftback Celica to a 3/4 scale 1969 Mustang fastback. In typical gonzo C&D style, the photos were complete with a guy wearing a Nixon mask in the car.
As to the car, itself, it went a very long way to establishing Toyota’s solid reputation in the US.
Yup! This Celica, the ’76 SR5 Corolla lift-back and the same year SR5 pick up truck cemented Toyota’s long term reputation of building high tolerance, reliable cars.
I wish Toyota still made these in exactly this model with updated emissions and safety. I wanted one so badly in school…
I have a 1991 toyota celica convertible she’s beautiful
Toyota still makes the GR86, a true sports car. It is also quite well priced for its capability.
The car I should have bought. ’76 was a watershed year for Japanese imports- the Corolla Liftback and the 1st Gen Accord appeared at the same time. From that time on, it was a “gloves off, take no prisoners” approach to the American can market.
I always liked the Celica. From 74 that I rode in (terribly cramped back seat as I recall) to the ’82 or so that a colleague at work had. I would think they could still sell a bunch of these if they still made them.
I think small sports coupes of this era (’71 to ’76) are the most beautiful from a design standpoint: Celica, Mercury Capri, Opel Manta, Chevy Vega, Alfa Romeo Veloce, Fiat Dino.
If only more automakers made something comparable nowadays.
“If only more automakers made something comparable nowadays”
This x 1,000,000,000.
Amazed that with people in general having smaller families or not getting married etc with the implication being that smaller cars and/or less doors are required, cars have gotten larger, not to mention the SUV craze.
Agree!
Very nice indeed if having in my view too much 1970’s ‘flair’ .
The sad fact is : if they made it, no one would come .
I still want an earlier RT43 Coupe but that’s never going to happen at this late date .
-Nate
My “fav” generation of the “Celica”!
My elementary school gym teacher, Mr. Thompson, bought one in 1977. The dated retro Mustang-like styling didn’t appeal to me then. Or now.
In 1977 I ordered a new Honda Accord, a great vehicle. However by the time the dealer received “our” car – they were commanding a much higher price than what they quoted me, and I realized I would never get the Accord for that price. I asked for my deposit back and went over to the Toyota dealer and picked up a new Celica Liftback. Chatting with the Toyota dealer during the sale, I ended up being hired a short time later as parts manager.
Great story! I was and am a big fan of the original Accord, but in 1976-77, a Celica Liftback was an “up-market”, more prestigious car.
And the Celica was more robust and durable.
I remain unconvinced. The Mustang rip off styling was commented on in Australian magazines of the era.
At least our appliances were spared some of the worst 5MPH bumpers this side of Dearborn.