We don't just talk cars ... we teach how to buy them.

"Used Toyota Celica Overview And How
To Get The Best Price!"

Gotta love the Celica. What a fun drive! And they're actually great on gas! Who knew? The 4-speed automatic Celica GT gets gas mileage of 29 mpg city and 36 highway. Outside of a hybrid or a diesel, it's one of the very best rated.

But alas, the 2005 model marked the end of this line ... Toyota has ended production after 35 years, replacing it with the less athletic but roomier Scion tC.

We tend to think that the Celica will likely follow the same path as the Honda Prelude, with demand for the "good ones" remaining brisk, while supply diminishes with each passing year. We expect these to be harder and harder to find.

The most recent generation of Celica, produced from 2000 to 2005, was clearly its best. With responsive steering, strong brakes, a well-sorted suspension and plenty of pep under the hood, this car is fun to drive.

The GT sports a 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The GT-S ramps this up to 180 horsepower with variable valve timing and lift technolgy. The GT-S was also upgraded with a six-speed manual transmission.

In terms of features, the less expensive Celica GT comes pretty much with the basics only, such as air conditioning and a stereo system. The GT-S is much better equipped with standard features that include power windows and doorlocks, cruise control, alloy wheels, disc brakes, fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an upgraded audio system.

Used Toyota Celica shoppers should note, however, that both models can also be found with options such as a sunroof, keyless entry, 16-inch alloy wheels, high-intensity discharge headlamps, a rear wing and leather upholstery (only on the GT-S). In addition, models with the optional "Action Package", which consisted of a number of exterior body enhancements, can be found on 2002 and newer models.

In terms of performance, the Celica's suspension, braking and steering systems provide excellent handling and road dynamics. This coupe is quick and responsive with plenty of grip and little body roll when cornering. That said, the GT-S's sportier engineering emphasizes performance over comfort, making for a firmer ride ... perhaps too firm for some drivers. And while the GT isn't as dressed up or powerful as the GT-S, it still provides a fun and engaging drive.

Overall, a used Celica still makes a solid choice for those seeking a fun-to-drive and sporty-looking coupe ... while they last. And if interested, we can suggest a number of ways to help you save when buying one.

How To Get The Best Price On A
Pre-Owned Toyota Celica:

There are actually several different ways to buy a used Celica at the lowest price, even at wholesale.

ONE - Car Auctions:

You can go to Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area. While this will take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed truly outstanding buys for those who shop these events.

Here's an article with additional information on locating these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage: Find A Toyota Celica At A Public Car Auction In Your Area.


TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:

The technique explained here is incredibly effective and involves learning how to identify high quality but potentially "price-distressed" used Celica candidates for sale right on dealer lots, ones they are extemely desperate to sell and ready to unload.


THREE - Set Up A Dealer Competition:

Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. See the details in this Used Car Buying Guide. It's just amazing what happens to prices when you force dealers to fight among each other for your sale.


Also ...

If you're interested in a "Brand New" Toyota, there are some great deals to be had if you know how.

People swear by this well-proven method for getting the absolute best price on a new car. This method is particularly effective in the current slow economic environment.