Toyota Celica Coupe (1999 - 2006) 1.8 VVTi 3d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I don't have any children and want to enjoy driving to work.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all like it, and wish they still made cars like this as opposed to 'sporty' versions of normal hatchbacks.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, it's fun to drive, looks nice and unique, is well put together and does what I need it to. I would consider the VVTLi version to get some more 'oomph' since the lack of turbo does grate sometimes.

What are you likely to buy next?

Can't afford its successor (FT-86) so will have to be something different. Wouldn't mind the new Dodge Dart or something else fun and unusual. Failing that, a Jeep of some description for a change of pace.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Car was low mileage and in good condition for its age, given a good price for my part exchange, and a few month's warranty.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Good looks, good reputation, previous car (Octavia) bigger than I needed, felt like owning a sporty car at least once in my life.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly, helpful, professional and businesslike. Bloomfield Car Sales in Dudley.

What's it like to drive?

Oh I wish it had a turbo! Have to drop down a gear sometimes for steep hills but then powers up them happily. Will cruise along as fast as you like on the motorway. Copes well with stop/start town driving.

What's it like to park?

Okay. Sightlines aren't great, especially to the sides/rear. Parallel parking is tricky as a result. Big doors can be an issue, nearly taken my ear off on the sill-less windows trying to squeeze back in tight parking spaces.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Alternator bearing was wearing out and was repaired under warranty by dealer.Battery was on its way out and died while car parked for two weeks at airport. Have had more bulbs blow in the last two years (four) than I did in nearly five years on my previous car (none).

What's most practical about your car?

Best for two people but can carry four if needed. Back seat folds down to hold a surprising amount of cargo.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Doesn't have any gadgets - manual climate and air conditioner controls, no iPod or navigation system. Good, simple, robust cockpit controls.