A Great Car With an Even Better Back Seat

Toyota has reputation of making cars that are economical and far from flashy. The Celica has been an exception for a number of years and the new model is no exception.

I drove a 1993 Celica for the better part of six years and loved it. I only wish that the new model would have been available when I was in the market for a car about a year and a half ago. The new model is very sporty and, in my opinion, has taken on the look of the Lotus that appears in "Pretty Woman". At any rate, here is a look at what the new Celica has to offer:

* 16 valve DOHC (I have no idea what this means, but I know the Celica really moves and this is a big reason why)
* Power windows/locks/sun roof
* Dual airbags
* Anti- lock brakes
* Power steering
* CD/Cassette Player
* Six speakers
*

Ok, nothing out of the ordinary like the ability to lift off and fly over traffic, but a lot of the basic amenities that you look for in a car.

What I like best about the Celica is that it is sporty, but not overstated. In other words, you will turn heads, but you will not have a bunch of people looking at you and wondering how in the world you can afford such a car (i.e. the Porsche Boxster). The Celica also has great pick up and handles like a dream. Toyota also did a good job of placing the controls in an area where they can be accessed while keeping the eyes on the road. Always a positive in my book.

Additionally, the seats are quite comfortable and the the legroom is plentiful- especially in the front seat. The two door car also truly offers a back seat. In other words, two people can sit in the back of the car without being totally uncomfortable. Finally, I have never had any sort of mechanical problems with the Celica and this goes back to the one I owned for many years. It seems as if Toyota has managed to transfer their reliable parts and technology into a car that is pushes the upper end of the price range.

What do I not like about the Celica? Well, this is a search because there is not much that I would consider a negative. The trunk is a little tight, but not tiny. The wiper blades are not great when it comes to removing heavy grit, grime, or bugs. Yes, they tend to smear a lot. Finally, as with any sports car, the clearance is not great for those who are tall. You will be bumping your head if you are over 6"2, but you can always stretch your legs out since the car has more than ample leg room. In all honesty, these are about the only things that I have found that are not great with the new Celica.


I would recommend the new Celica, or the old model for that matter, to anyone who is looking for a sporty car with a reasonable price. The Celica is reliable, fast, and will meet all of your basic needs- except for hauling seven kids. Oh, and the back seat, well I think it would be best if you found out for yourself.