Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185
The water-to-air cooled homologation special that secured Toyota's WRC dominance.
- Power
- 235 bhp
- Top speed
- 143 mph
- Est. value
- $20k–$45k
About the Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185
The Celica GT-Four RC (known as the Carlos Sainz Limited Edition in Europe) was a homologation special built to qualify the ST185 for Group A rallying. It is distinguished from the standard GT-Four by a unique front bumper with additional cooling vents, a lightweight aluminium bonnet with a distinct scoop, and a water-to-air intercooler instead of the standard air-to-air unit. These modifications addressed cooling issues faced by the rally team, helping Toyota win the WRC Driver's and Manufacturer's titles. It remains a highly sought-after JDM icon due to its direct link to the golden era of 1990s rallying.
Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185 specs
The Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185 produces 235 bhp (175 kW) and 304 Nm (224 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
| Make | Toyota |
|---|---|
| Model | Celica GT-Four RC |
| Generation | ST185 |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 1991–1992 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 5,000 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 235 bhp (175 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 304 Nm (224 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 143 mph (230 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,460 kg (3,219 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 161 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 GT-Four RC ST185 worth?
A typical Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185 is estimated to be worth $20,000 – $45,000 (about £15,000 – £34,000).
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 GT-Four RC ST185 rarity in CarSpot
The Toyota Celica GT-Four RC ST185 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 45 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 GT-Four RC ST185 fun facts
- Of the 5,000 units produced, 1,800 were sold in Japan as the RC, 3,000 went to Europe as the Carlos Sainz edition, and 150 went to Australia as the Group A Rallye.
- The RC version features a shorter-throw gear lever and a different synchroniser design compared to the standard ST185 for faster shifting.
- The water-to-air intercooler system was specifically chosen for the RC because it offered more consistent intake temperatures during the low-airflow conditions of rally stages.
