The 2000 Toyota Celica Convertible Concept, crafted by Calty Design Research, Inc., Toyota’s U.S. styling studio in Newport Beach, California, seamlessly merged the allure of a convertible with the sporty sophistication of the Celica. The conversion to convertible required minimal design changes, introducing a soft top that elegantly folded beneath a hard tonneau cover, while sleek lines from the front bonnet were incorporated into the design of the new rear boot lid.
The interior was meticulously designed to evoke a sense of race car aggressiveness blended with refined style. The convertible, adorned in a unique blue exterior color, featured leather-upholstered seats with the front seats trimmed in grey and vivid blue ultrasuede, accented with grey pearlized leather. The back seats showcased solid grey leather with perforated seat backs over blue fabric. The top and bottom of the steering wheel were also adorned with pearlized grey leather.
Under the hood, the convertible was powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder DOHC all-aluminum engine generating 180 horsepower at 7,600 rpm. This engine incorporated Variable Valve Timing and Lift with Intelligence (VVTL-i), ushering in a new era of performance from 6,000 rpm to the redline at 7,800 rpm. VVTL-i dynamically adjusted intake/exhaust lift at high engine speeds, improving both output and fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
Engine: Inline-4
Position: Front Transverse
Aspiration: Natural
Valvetrain: DOHC 4 Valves per Cyl w/VVTL-i
Displacement: 1795 cc
Power: 180.0 bhp @ 7600 rpm
Driven Wheels: FWD
Front Tires: 215/45 ZR 17
Rear Tires: 215/45 ZR 17
Front Brakes: Vented Discs
Rear Brakes: Discs
Front Wheels: 17.0 x 7.5 inches
Rear Wheels: 17.0 x 7.5 inches
Transmission: 4-Speed Auto
The 2000 Toyota Celica Convertible Concept perfectly embodied the marriage of dynamic design and robust performance, offering a thrilling driving experience in a stylish and convertible package.
Source & Images: Toyota
