Japan's First Supercar: The Best Features Of The 1970 Toyota 2000GT

According to Top Speed, around six years ago, Toyota was regarded as the biggest carmaker in the world; widely known for its family sedans and capable SUVs. But in recent decades, the Japanese have built themselves a solid name in sports car manufacturing and racing through popular vehicles such as the Supra, GT-86, and the Lexus LFA.

However, it was around 5 decades ago when Toyota continued to have the sober image of becoming a successful economical car manufacture. They wanted to head in the direction of eco-friendly and low emissions, which was rather controversial. This direction seemed to take a swift U-turn in 1987 when the magnificent 2000GT model hit the markets. This glorious vehicle was widely regarded as the first Japanese supercar. Following the great success of the first and second Japanese Grand Prix events in 1963 and 1964, worldwide enthusiasm for all forms of motorsport suddenly increased in Japan and motorists began asking for manufacturers to produce high-performance road cars. Toyota heard their audience, loud and clear. Hence, the Toyota 2000GT 1970 model.

Toyota wanted a range-topping grand touring model which would positively highlight their creative technologies and slick manufacturing knowledge that it had accumulated over the years, starting back in the 1930s. Their aim was to create a practical, high-performance coupe which was comfortable but also accommodated a person for everyday use. As well as this homely luxury idea, Toyota wanted the 1970 2000GT to face only minor modifications before being just as effective out on the racetrack.

The World’s First Ever Japanese Supercar: The 1970 Toyota 2000GT

This specific Toyota 2000GT was unleashed and set free onto the market in 1970. The 1970 2000GT was a marvelous low-volume model, boasting exotic materials and impressive speculation levels which were practically unheard of. The car was not assembled on Toyota’s regular production lines, but traveled to Yamaha, which had the facility to piece the cars together in small batches and carefully finish each by hand – something which its customers loved.

One of its drivers favorite features was the snooped coupe body of the 1970 Toyota 2000GT, which came in the form of an X-shape frame. Power came booming from a 148 hp 2.0-liter DOHC (dual overhead cam) straight six engine. Features such as a four-wheel independent suspension and magnesium alloy wheels had never been seen before on a production model made in Japan, so this was certainly an exciting first for them, as well as their eager customers. The performance of the 2000GT was also world-class, it was able to deliver a maximum speed of 133 mph and hit 62 mph from 0 in just 8.6 seconds.

The 1970 Toyota 2000GT Was Ground-breaking In Its Time

The 1970 Toyota 2000GT had a well-positioned cockpit which was dressed in a rosewood veneer dashboard. The motor also featured a five-speed manual gearbox, auto-tuning radio, and a reach-adjustable steering column.

Although it was rather cramped compared to similar European products, it did provide some comfort and features luxury amenities previously unseen in a Toyota. The automobile certainly looked cool, with its sloping coupe back and long prominent hood, it was enough to make anybody stop in their tracks. The 1970 model received a re-vamp to its exterior, lifting its hood slightly higher, which allowed the Toyota to keep up with modern changes within the car world.

The 1970 model was highly popular amongst Toyota lovers as it came fitted with an air-conditioning unit - something which was definitely up and coming at the time and certainly very sought after.

The instrument panel was similar to other GTs of the era, consisting of two main gauges behind the steering wheel and an array of buttons below. Five smaller clocks sat above the radio unit, while more switches were sat around the center stack. The seats had a slight sport feel, but nothing compared to the likes of Jaguar or Ferrari had to offer. Overall, the 1970 2000GT provided nothing more than what was necessary for a driver to thoroughly enjoy as a grand tourer.

A Revolutionary Time For Toyota

The 1970 2000GTs arrival marked a very important moment in Toyota’s history. It proved that Japanese cars don’t have to focus on fuel economy and low prices exclusively. Although, it didn’t bring the success that the Datsun 240z or the Jaguar E-Type did sales-wise. The 2000GT lived on long enough to become a fine legend of its time, picking up many keen admirers on the way. It’s loved by many, and it’s lovers and super car enthusiast are willing to pay high prices to be lucky enough to call on their own.

The 1970 model deserves plenty of recognition for the high-performance, delightful vehicle it is. Current high auction prices speak volumes about its value, and to some it’s actually a lot more exotic than a Jaguar E-Type.

Sources: Hemmings, Top Speed, Toyota