The 1980 Toyota Celica is a celebrated model among classic car enthusiasts, known for its sporty design and reliable performance. However, one particular 1980 Toyota Celica boasts a history that elevates it beyond the standard model, adding a layer of American automotive legend to its Japanese roots. This is the story of a Celica with a unique journey, enhanced by the iconic Carroll Shelby.
From the factory floor in Japan, this Celica started as a robust machine, equipped with a 2.2L (20R) inline four-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission, driving a live axle rear end. Its journey took an interesting turn when it was shipped to Griffith, where it was fitted with a convertible top, bearing the number J0581, marking its transformation into a rare open-top variant.
The plot thickens as the Celica was then sent to Nevada, not for just any customization, but for the magic touch of Carroll Shelby. The modifications performed at Carroll Shelby’s shop were primarily cosmetic but significant. Notably, the car received special Carroll Shelby 4-bolt wheels. These wheels, while strikingly similar to the standard Toyota wheels, are distinguished by their unique center cap attachment, hinting at a custom, possibly one-off design. Adding to its distinctive appearance, stripes bearing the “Celica” name were applied, further setting it apart.
Original photographs from 1982, when the car was first purchased, capture its appearance with these Shelby enhancements. After its Shelby makeover, the 1980 Toyota Celica was shipped to Georgetown Toyota, where it was purchased by the current owner’s grandfather. He cherished the car for 19 years before it was passed down, ensuring its legacy within the family.
The stripes, a defining feature of its Shelby customization, are no longer present due to a repaint approximately five years before the current owner inherited it. Currently, efforts are underway to authenticate the Celica’s Shelby modifications officially and to recreate those iconic stripes.
Driven by a desire to bring this classic back to its former glory, a restoration is in progress. Addressing minor rust near the gas cap and the ambition to restore the Shelby stripes are key components of this project. The goal is to return this 1980 Toyota Celica to its status as a drivable show car, celebrating its unique blend of Japanese engineering and American customization history. This restoration is not just about preserving a car; it’s about reviving a unique narrative in automotive history.
