Toyota Celica Cabriolet 2d (1988/F) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Cabrio still carries a premium. ST162 becoming collectable. Mine is US spec. from Japan with full electric convertible roof, not the iffy Euro-chop conversion from Germany and sold in the UK (half convertible, half leaky targa top!). Great open-air fun!
Costs
Toyota parts are mind-bendingly expensive and dealers don't like giving discounts. Very few parts shared with other ST162's. Make sure hood cover is there as it's over £1,100 to replace. Insurance is high, even on limited classic policy. Expect 26-30mpg.
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On the road
Driving
Satsifyingly urgent, it handles pretty well for a FWD car with most of it's weight over the front wheels. Has a tendancy to understeer wide when pushed, but lift-off oversteer is available on demand. McPherson struts all round keep everything on the road.
Performance
Sprightly, if not fast performance. Won't touch a 200SX, but with open air motoring, who cares? Auto is smooth and slick - sports mode allows full use of the engine to the red line. Satisfying with the top up, silly grin inducing with it down in the sun!
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Living with it
Reliability
Unbelievable build quality and engineering. Super-stiff chassis feels like it is hewn from solid steel. Far better than most conversions of the era. Engine never misses a beat and NOTHING ever seems to go wrong! (which offsets the high parts cost nicely).
Image
Shape is getting very dated now, but it still turns heads and is very rare in the UK. Superbly poseable with the roof down and the clean lines on show! And you get the ultimate toy, now banned by the Eurocrats - pop-up headlights!
Comfort
Seats could be better (mine were designed for Japanese market). Rear leg room uncomfortable for adults over more than a few miles. Hood-up head room surprisingly good for such a low car. Wind noise can be intrusive, but hood is snug with no draughts.
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Security and Service
Security
Central locking, but that's about it. Interior release for boot can be disabled, but is a bit pointless as there is open access to the boot from inside the car! Convertibles are never that secure, anyway. Can't insure one without a Thatcham 2 immobiliser.
Service
I can't fault the dealers. Yes, they're ridiculously expensive and won't discount, but they are extremely helpful and willing to do a bit of diggging to obtain scarce parts. Pleasantly surprised me, particularly as it is an import. DIY servicing is easy.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
115bhp 3S-FE 16V engine runs sweetly and quietly. Never any problem. UK models should have 135bhp 3S-GE 16V engine and manual gearbox - both very reliable. Some converted with 3S-GTE 16V turbo - avoid as the chassis needs the roof for that sort of power.
Other
Suspension was changed to sports set-up after import due to a broken road spring. 35mm lower and 30% stiffer gives fantastic road holding, but slightly harsh ride. Probably best to stick with standard springing and fit uprated dampers.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes