Toyota Celica T18 2.0 GT-i 16V (156 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.9 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota Celica:

The Toyota Celica is an automobile produced by Toyota from 1970 until 2006. The Celica name derives from the Latin word coelica meaning heavenly or celestial. In Japan, the Celica was exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store dealer chain. Produced across seven generations, the Celica was powered by various four-cylinder engines, and body styles included convertibles, liftbacks, and notchback coupé.
In 1973, Toyota coined the term liftback to describe the Celica fastback hatchback, and the GT Liftback would be introduced for the 1976 model year in North America. Like the Ford Mustang, the Celica concept was to attach a coupe body to the chassis and mechanicals from a high volume sedan, in this case the Toyota Carina....(Read more on Wikipedia)

T18 Overview:

Toyota Celica (T18). With 186 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.9 l/100km). Weighing only 1200 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.3 s). The top speed reaches 220 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Toyota Celica T18 generation was produced before Euro NCAP testing began in 1997, therefore no official safety rating is available from this program.

2.0 GT-i 16V (156 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A spirited performer with a noticeable power bump, delivering brisk acceleration (8.3s) and a more engaging driving experience, ideal for those seeking more thrill.

Fuel Economy

Impressive fuel economy (7.7 l/100 km) for its performance level, making it a practical choice for a sporty coupe.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast / Highway cruising

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Iconic 90s styling with pop-up headlights
  • • Excellent Toyota reliability across the range
  • • Engaging driving dynamics, especially in GT-i and GT-Four trims
  • • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
  • • Practical coupe with decent trunk space

Cons:

  • • Base models can feel underpowered
  • • Interior plastics feel dated by modern standards
  • • Front-wheel drive on most models limits ultimate handling compared to RWD rivals
  • • Potential for rust, especially in older, unmaintained examples
  • • Rear seats are cramped for adults

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(T16: 1988 - 1990).

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:Celica
Generation:T18
Modification (Engine):2.0 GT-i 16V (156 Hp)
Start of production:1989
End of production:1994
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:5
Doors:3
Engine:
Power:156 Hp @ 6600 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:78.1 Hp/l [40mm more]
Torque:186 Nm @ 4800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:3S-GE More details about the engine 3S-GE
Engine displacement:1998
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:3.9 l
Coolant:6.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:86 mm mm
Piston Stroke:86 mm mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.3 sec
Maximum speed:220 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.7 kg/Hp, 130 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.5 kg/Nm, 155 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1200
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:320 l
Fuel tank capacity:60 l
Size:
Length:4420 mm mm [40mm more]
Width:1690 mm mm [20mm less]
Height:1300 mm mm [10mm more]
Wheelbase:2525 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1465 mm
Rear (Back) track:1430 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/60 R14
Wheel rims size14
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Toyota Celica?