Toyota Celica A40
The 'Mini-Mustang' matures into a sophisticated, Yamaha-tuned grand tourer.
- Power
- 123 bhp
- Top speed
- 118 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$35k
About the Toyota Celica A40
The second-generation A40 Celica, launched in late 1977, moved the model away from its pure pony-car roots toward a more aerodynamic, wedge-shaped design penned by Toyota's Calty studio in California. The 2.0 GT was the performance flagship, featuring the legendary 18R-G engine with a twin-cam cylinder head developed by Yamaha and twin Solex carburettors. While the US market received the larger-displacement but less powerful 20R engine, the JDM and European GT models remained the enthusiast's choice for their high-revving character. Today, the A40 is prized for its balance of 1970s Japanese style and robust mechanicals, though surviving examples are increasingly rare due to corrosion.
Toyota Celica A40 specs
The Toyota Celica A40 produces 123 bhp (92 kW) and 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).
| Make | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Model | Celica |
| Generation | A40 |
| Trim | 2.0 GT |
| Years | 1977–1981 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 123 bhp (92 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 152 Nm (112 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,076 kg (2,372 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 114 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Toyota Celica A40 worth?
A typical Toyota Celica A40 is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $35,000 (about £6,700 – £26,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Toyota Celica A40 rarity in CarSpot
The Toyota Celica A40 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 20 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Toyota Celica A40 fun facts
- The A40 Celica was the first Toyota model to be designed at the company's Calty Design Research studio in Newport Beach, California.
- The 18R-G engine's cylinder head was developed by Yamaha, continuing a partnership that began with the legendary Toyota 2000GT.
- Toyota reached the milestone of one million Celicas produced in March 1977, just as the A40 generation was being prepared for launch.
