The 1974 Toyota Celica is the first generation of Toyota Celica which is identified as A20, A35 series; this creation was in response to the growing market demands of cars that were both sporty and economical. Harking back to the muscular American car look of the 60s and 70s, it had a commanding hood, truncated rear deck and slashes, and bore the nick name ‘the Japanese Mustang.’
Regarding the power-train, the Celica was available with a range of secure inline-4 engines from 1.6L to 2.0L, with capability for manual or automatic transmission. There were two standard models of the body that included 2-door hardtop coupe, and another variant called as the lift back which arrived later in the year. Recognized for its fine handling, excellent body construction and stylish look, the Celica became a world’s favorite and set the stakes for Toyota’s rise in the realm of sports cars.
Engine Specs and Features
Specification
Details
Engine Type
Inline-4, naturally aspirated
Engine Code
2T-B
Displacement
1858 cc (113.38 cu in)
Power Output
108 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque
117 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Compression Ratio
9:1
Fuel System
Carburetor
Valvetrain
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Transmission
4-speed manual
Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive
Chassis and Dimensions
Specification
Details
Body Type
Coupe
Length
4163 mm (163.9 in)
Width
1600 mm (63 in)
Height
1295 mm (51 in)
Wheelbase
2420 mm (95 in)
Weight
~1030 kg (2270 lbs)
Turning Circle
~10.8 m
Fuel Economy and MPG
Specification
Details
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Economy (Combined)
24 MPG
Tank Capacity
50 liters (13.2 gallons)
1974 Toyota Celica Safety Features
Feature
Details
Seat Belts
Standard front lap belts; no shoulder harnesses in basic models.
Braking System
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes for improved stopping power.
Side Impact Protection
Basic reinforcement in doors to comply with 1970s safety standards.
Bumpers
Chrome bumpers with reinforcements to meet U.S. federal crash standards.
Visibility
Dual side mirrors and rear-view mirror for adequate visibility.
Lights
Standard halogen headlights and functional turn indicators for safety.
1974 Toyota Celica Interior Features
Feature
Details
Seating
Front bucket seats and a rear bench seat, upholstered in durable vinyl or fabric.
Dashboard
Simple, clean dashboard with analog gauges, including speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and oil pressure gauges.
Steering Wheel
2-spoke steering wheel, typically with manual adjustment.
Climate Control
Manual heater, with ventilation for basic comfort; no air conditioning in standard models (available as an upgrade).
Audio System
AM radio as standard, with optional AM/FM radio or cassette player in some trims.
Storage
Small glovebox, ashtray, and limited storage space in the center console.
Interior Lighting
Basic interior light for cabin illumination.
Flooring
Vinyl flooring for durability, typical of cars from this era.
Driver Controls
Manual windows, simple controls for ventilation, and minimalistic door panels.
Optional Upgrades
Optional sportier trim, better upholstery, and improved sound insulation in higher trims.
1974 Toyota Celica Exterior Features
Feature
Details
Body Styles
Available in a 2-door hardtop coupe and the lift-back model introduced in 1974.
Grille
Chrome horizontal bars with a bold Toyota badge at the center.
Headlights
Round halogen headlights, contributing to the car’s sporty and classic look.
Bumpers
Chrome bumpers with integrated safety features to meet U.S. federal regulations.
Side Styling
Mustang-inspired fastback silhouette with a sleek, long hood and short rear deck.
Wheels
14-inch steel wheels with optional chrome hubcaps or sportier alloy rims.
Tail Lights
Rectangular tail lights with horizontal layout to match the front grille design.
Windows
Standard side windows with chrome trim and manual window operation.
Roofline
Smooth and flowing roof-line, particularly in the coupe variant, giving it a sporty and aerodynamic look.
Paint Options
A wide variety of solid and metallic colors, including classic shades like white, red, and blue.
Current Selling Price in U.S.
Condition
Estimated Price (USD)
Excellent (Showroom)
~$23,600
Good (Restored)
~$15,200
Fair (Usable)
~$9,200
Poor (Project car)
~$4,600
Note: Prices vary depending on condition, restoration quality, location, and market demand. You can find 1974 Toyota Celica for sale in classic car marketplaces like Hemmings, Bring a Trailer, and edmunds, where prices tend to fluctuate based on demand and specific car conditions.
The 1974 Toyota Celica is a stylish and reliable sports coupe known for its blend of performance and affordability, with a design inspired by American muscle cars. Today, it remains a sought-after classic for enthusiasts, with prices reflecting its condition and originality
