Toyota clinches seventh WRC championship

author: FutureCar Staff    

Over the weekend, Toyota Gazoo Racing's World Rally Team achieved a significant milestone that may have gone unnoticed by many. Elfyn Evans finished third at Rally Chile, with teammates Kalle Rovanpera and Takamoto Katsuta following closely behind. The team also secured a one-two finish on the Power Stage, earning enough points to claim their fourth consecutive World Rally Championship (WRC) Manufacturers' title. Furthermore, it is highly likely that a Yaris driver will win the Drivers' championship, with Rovanpera leading the standings and Evans trailing by 31 points with two events remaining. This would mark the fifth consecutive championship for Gazoo Racing.

However, despite the outstanding performances and the undeniable excitement of the sport, the WRC seems to be struggling to gain popularity. The current state of awareness around WRC is such that only the most dedicated fans truly appreciate the achievements of Toyota. It raises questions about the need for a potential overhaul of the WRC, similar to the transformation that Liberty Media brought to Formula 1. Such an incredible motorsport deserves a wider audience.

This recent triumph serves as a reminder of Toyota's previous success in rallying. Before the Gazoo Racing era, Toyota had already secured three Manufacturers' titles. The first of these victories came 30 years ago in 1993, with a rally version of the Celica GT-Four, similar to the one used in the current championship.

The rally replica of the Celica GT-Four is an interesting car. It is based on the GT-Four Rally, a special edition exclusively available in Japan. The rally version of the car featured a narrower body, shedding 40kg compared to the standard model. This weight reduction was achieved by removing electric windows and mirrors, the sunroof, foglights, and even the rear wiper. These unique characteristics make it an ideal starting point for building a rally replica.

Many modifications have been made to this GT-Four. The bonnet and lamp pod are exact replicas of those used by Toyota Team Europe during the car's heyday. The OZ Roulette wheels are the perfect choice for the GT-Four, and the interior has been enhanced with Recaro seats, a Momo steering wheel, and a TRD gear knob. However, the most exciting aspect lies under the fibreglass bonnet - the 2.0-litre turbo engine has been rebuilt with various upgrades, including a new hybrid turbo, Delphi 800cc injectors, OE pistons, uprated cams, a ported and polished head, and a rally-spec exhaust. These modifications have increased the engine's output to 300hp, providing an exhilarating driving experience through the close-ratio gearbox.

Despite being a Japanese import rather than a UK model, this GT-Four has been in the country for 25 years, making it a familiar sight. It has been owned by the managing director of a well-known competition preparation specialists for the past five years, ensuring it has been well taken care of. Additionally, the car comes with a substantial history file that documents its past.

What makes this GT-Four even more appealing is its price - £20k. With many rally replicas and homologation specials becoming too valuable to be used as intended, this GT-Four offers a chance to experience a truly raw rally experience without worrying about its value. It has been well-used and modified, allowing the driver to enjoy the car without being overly cautious. So, get behind the wheel, get comfortable, and don't hold back!

FutureCar Staff