Advice On Buying A Celica

[WillyMcG]

Hi,

New to the forums, hopefully I get a Celica and stick around.

I'm maybe looking at buying a Celica since I've had enough of my current car, mainly been looking at the 1.8 VVTi, either the 140 or the 190. Reading around, they appear to be reliable and have a kick, two things that I'm interested in. Is there anything that I should be looking for when I go and see one? Like known red flag, etc.

Thanks,

Will

[Scarlett Arrow]

Hi, Will, & welcome to T.O.C.

There is one model to avoid..the pre face lift (99-02) 140. These cars have an inherent design fault in the piston ring area, so if looking for a 140, choose a face lift (52 plate on).

Good luck in your search.

[WillyMcG]

Hi, Will, & welcome to T.O.C.

There is one model to avoid..the pre face lift (99-02) 140. These cars have an inherent design fault in the piston ring area, so if looking for a 140, choose a face lift (52 plate on).

Good luck in your search.

Yeah, I've read that in a few places. Apparently they drink oil like no tomorrow?

Anyway, are pre facelift 190's fine? I'm swaying more towards the 190's.

Thanks for the reply,

Will

[Scarlett Arrow]

Try driving both before committing. The pre face lift 190's have a light grey interior vinyl that isn't to everyones liking, and the gearbox ratios are set up for sprinting, rather than cruising. They're also getting a little long in the tooth now, and the Gen 7 doesn't have the build quality of a Gen 6.

Much depends on your particular driving style as to 140 v 190.