Ep 62. 1971 Toyota Celica

Jay Leno's Garage is back with another exciting episode titled "1971 Toyota Celica." As the name suggests, this episode features the classic Japanese sports car that changed the face of the automotive industry. Jay takes a deep dive into the history of the Celica and shares some interesting facts about this legendary car.

The episode starts with Jay highlighting the design elements of the Celica that set it apart from other classic cars of its time. He talks about the sleek and compact body, which was a departure from the big and bulky muscle cars popular in the US. The Celica's design was heavily influenced by European sports cars, and it became an instant hit with car enthusiasts all over the world.

Next, Jay talks about the engine and performance of the Celica. The car was equipped with a four-cylinder engine that provided a decent amount of power. However, what really set the Celica apart was its handling. The car had a relatively light body and a well-tuned suspension that made it a joy to drive. Jay takes the car out for a spin and demonstrates how well it handles on the road.

In addition to performance, Jay also talks about the cultural impact of the Celica. The car became a symbol of the Japanese car industry's rise to prominence in the 1970s. Its success paved the way for other Japanese car brands like Honda, Nissan, and Mazda to establish themselves as serious competitors to traditional American automakers. Jay also shares his personal connection to the Celica and how it was one of the first sports cars he ever owned.

As with every episode of Jay Leno's Garage, there are interviews with experts and enthusiasts who share their knowledge and experiences with the car. In this episode, Jay meets with an owner who has restored his Celica to its original condition. They discuss the process of restoring the car and the challenges he faced along the way. Jay also meets with a Toyota engineer who designed the latest version of the Celica and talks to him about how the car has evolved over the years.

Towards the end of the episode, Jay talks about the market value of the Celica and how it has appreciated over the years. He shows some examples of well-preserved Celicas that have sold for impressive amounts at auction. He also shares some tips for aspiring collectors on how to find and evaluate a Celica for purchase.

In conclusion, "1971 Toyota Celica" is an excellent episode of Jay Leno's Garage that showcases the history and significance of this classic Japanese sports car. Jay's passion for cars is evident throughout the episode, and he provides an entertaining and informative look at the Celica's design, performance, and cultural impact. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just a casual viewer, this episode is definitely worth watching.