Toyota 2000GT

In 1965, at the Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota introduced its new lineup. Two cars from the new range belonged to the sports category. A small 48ci (790cc) Toyota Sport 800 and a 122ci (2.0-liter) Toyota 2000GT.

The 2000GT was the first Japanese car capable of challenging European sports cars in both design and performance.

The engine was taken from a Toyota Crown and sent to Yamaha for rework. After installing a twin-shaft head, its power was increased to 150 HP.

The six-cylinder in-line engine was mounted on an X-shaped spinal chassis, similar in design to the Lotus Elan chassis. The car used a 5-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, and vacuum booster disc brakes on all four wheels.

In October 1966, during the 72-hour marathon, the Toyota 2000GT set three world records for cars with an engine capacity of 1500–2000 cc (91-122 cu in), covering the entire distance at an average speed of 206.02 kph (128.04 mph).

Although the 2000GT was a great sports car, it was not a commercial success because it was too expensive compared to European sports cars. A total of 351 cars were produced, making each remaining Toyota 2000GT a very rare and valuable specimen.

Love at First Sight

From the moment you lay eyes on this iconic sports car, you can't help but be drawn in by its undeniable charm.

The low and wide stance of the Toyota 2000GT gives it a commanding presence on the road. Its long and elegant bonnet seems to stretch out endlessly, hinting at the power that lies beneath.

The flowing lines and perfectly sculpted curves of the body give it a sense of grace and sophistication, making it a true work of art.

Step inside the Toyota 2000GT, and you are greeted by a beautifully crafted interior that exudes luxury. The snug yet comfortable seats envelop you, making you feel as if the car was tailor-made just for you.

The attention to detail is impeccable, with every switch and dial placed in just the right spot for easy access.

But the beauty of the Toyota 2000GT isn't just skin deep. Underneath its stunning exterior lies a powerful engine that delivers an exhilarating driving experience.

The precise handling and responsive steering make every twist and turn of the road a true pleasure. With its impressive acceleration and top speed, it effortlessly leaves other cars in its wake.

Racing Success

The racing debut for the 2000GT came in 1966, when Toyota decided to enter it in the Japanese Grand Prix. Do not confuse with F1. From 1963 to 1976, this event was not an integral part of the races for the Formula 1 World Championship.

Although facing tough competition from well-established European manufacturers, the 2000GT showcased its potential by finishing third overall and winning its class. This remarkable performance put Toyota on the map in the racing world.

Following its success at the Japanese Grand Prix, the 2000GT embarked on an international racing career. It competed in various endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Fuji and the 24 Hours of Daytona.

While facing formidable opponents from Porsche, Ferrari, and other renowned brands, the 2000GT consistently demonstrated its speed, agility, and reliability. It secured class wins and podium finishes, further solidifying its reputation as a competitive racing machine.

One of the most notable achievements of the 2000GT came in 1967, when it set a whopping 16 world records for speed and endurance at the Yatabe Test Track in Japan.

These records included a 200-mile endurance record and a 72-hour average speed record, showcasing the exceptional durability and performance of the car.

Sadly, the racing career of the 2000GT was relatively short-lived. As Toyota shifted its focus towards more mainstream models, the 2000GT retired from competitive racing.

However, its success paved the way for future Toyota sports cars, influencing the development of the Supra and other high-performance vehicles.

Toyota 2000GT, Bond Model

The story of how the Toyota 2000GT became a James Bond car is a fascinating tale that showcases the iconic status of both the vehicle and the Bond franchise itself.

It all started when the production company behind the James Bond films decided to feature a Japanese car for the first time in the series.

The film in question was "You Only Live Twice," the fifth installment in the franchise and one that aimed to showcase the exotic locations and cultural diversity of Japan.

This presented a unique opportunity for the Toyota 2000GT to make its grand entrance onto the global stage.

To further enhance its appeal, the 2000GT was finished in a stunning white paint scheme with a red leather interior. This combination exuded class and elegance, fitting perfectly with the aura of the James Bond character.

The car's presence on screen was undeniable, capturing the attention of viewers and adding to the unparalleled cinematic experience that the Bond franchise is known for.

In "You Only Live Twice," the 2000GT was driven by the character Aki, played by actress Akiko Wakabayashi.

The car featured in some thrilling chase scenes, showcasing not only its aesthetic appeal but also its remarkable performance capabilities.

With its top speed of 135mph and a 0-60mph time of 10.2 seconds, the 2000GT lived up to its reputation as a true sports car, providing an exhilarating experience for both the driver and the audience.

The inclusion of the Toyota 2000GT in a James Bond film proved to be a significant milestone for both the car and the franchise.

It helped solidify the 2000GT's status as an iconic vehicle, and it showcased the Bond series' willingness to embrace and celebrate automotive excellence from around the world.

Since its appearance in "You Only Live Twice," the 2000GT has become a sought-after classic car, with its value skyrocketing over the years.

Toyota 2000GT Value

Due to its rarity and desirability among car enthusiasts and collectors alike, the price of a Toyota 2000GT can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, and specific features.

On average, a well-maintained Toyota 2000GT can range anywhere from $500,000 to $1 million. However, prices for this iconic vehicle have been known to exceed these figures, with some pristine examples fetching upwards of $2 million.

For example, the most expensive Toyota 2000GT sold achieved a price of $2,535,000. The sale was conducted at the Gooding & Company auction on March 4, 2022, in Fernandina Beach, FL, USA. It should be noted that this is the Shelby variant of this model.

Conclusion

The Toyota 2000GT is a true testament to the artistry and engineering prowess of its creators. It captures the imagination of car enthusiasts and admirers alike, leaving a lasting impression that transcends time.

With its striking looks, exhilarating performance, and rarity, it is a masterpiece that will continue to captivate for generations to come.