The 1982 Toyota MX-1 Concept, a creation of Calty, emerged as a premium mid-engine halo sports car during an era when Calty's focus and role were evolving alongside Toyota's expansion. The 1970s marked a period of discovery and research for CALTY under studio chief, Executive Vice President Mamoru Yaegashi, concentrating on exploring future design trends.
The 1980s witnessed a significant shift in Calty's approach, emphasizing innovative design language and techniques. Design development teams were granted unprecedented freedom to unleash their creativity, marking a departure from the constraints imposed by major studios at the time.
In 1982, Calty introduced the Toyota MX-1 Concept, representing the pinnacle of engineering and design with its status as a mid-engine supercar. Characterized by scissor doors and a large jet fighter-like canopy, the MX-1 reached the creation of a full-scale model, which was presented to executives, including Eiji Toyoda. Envisioned as a halo sports car, the MX-1, unfortunately, never made it into production. However, Toyota did introduce a mid-engined sports car the following year, the 1983 Toyota MR2 Concept. The MX-1, had it reached production, would undoubtedly have been a mind-blowing addition to Toyota's lineup.
Source: Toyota; japanesenostalgiccar.com
Images: Toyota