1989 Toyota Celica Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 1989 Toyota Celica was virtually identical to the 1988 model, when the all-wheel drive model was introduced to the lineup.
The 1989...
The 1989 Toyota Celica was virtually identical to the 1988 model, when the all-wheel drive model was introduced to the lineup.
The 1989 Celica offered a few different engine choices, depending on the trim levels. ST and GT coupe, the GT hatchback, and the GT convertible got a 116-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The GT-S coupe and hatchback had a 135 horsepower engine with 2.0 liters. The turbo-charged All-Trac got a 190 horsepower engine, which was the most powerful four-cylinder engine in the US at that time. Fuel economy was about 25 to 32 mpg, depending on the engine and transmission.
The 1989 Celica has many loyal fans, some who say it is the best car ever produced. Drivers of the 1989 Celica love its Toyota reliability combined with its sporty look and, particularly in the All-Trac, its power and performance. The car runs very smoothly at freeway speeds, and is popular for racing due to its excellent handling. Rust is a common problem among Celicas of this era, and many owners complain that the back seat is practically useless.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are quite fond of the 1989 Toyota Celica, appreciating its fun driving experience, performance, and reliability. Many have praised its acceleration, handling, and unique features like pop-up headlights. However, some drivers mentioned issues like steering difficulties, weak headlights, and occasional maintenance needs due to age."
Love this baby. They dont make um this good anymore. Very solid car overall. The performance is still astounding and it still beats those 'new' cars off the line and at 40 rolls. Toyota just doesnt make um like thye did, this thing is built to last for the long run.
September 15, 2008it had excellent handling, excellent pick-up.
April 6, 2008Imported GTR 4WS. didn't break down much but when it did i had to import parts - expensive. Not fastest car ever but handled amazing.
December 2, 2007What owners say
Love this baby. They dont make um this good anymore. Very solid car overall. The performance is still astounding and it still beats those 'new' cars off the line and at 40 rolls. Toyota just doesnt make um like thye did, this thing is built to last for the long run.
September 15, 2008it had excellent handling, excellent pick-up.
April 6, 2008Imported GTR 4WS. didn't break down much but when it did i had to import parts - expensive. Not fastest car ever but handled amazing.
December 2, 2007I submitted my first review (the oldest one listed here) before I knew to do it under my login. The photos, however are mine. Here is an update: As of 03/30/2007 my 1989 Toyota Celica ST Coupe is still humming along! I put new tires on it and it needs a CV joint and tie-rod ends. I also found out that the trunk has a rain leak but I don't know where exactly. I had to pull the rubber drain plugs out to keep it dry. The water drips on the driver's side taillight bulbs and causes them to blow out. I covered the tail light assembly with plastic and I think that will be a temporary fix. The engine runs as strong as ever at 203K miles! Toyota builds a great engine. The cruise control is jerky when it cuts in at highway speeds. I still love the car and I am surprised that there are so few on the road. If I ever save enough money I would like to do a complete restoration
March 30, 2007Performance - Definitely not a true performance oriented car, more like an economy version of a sports car. Not a bad car for day to day commute. Build Quality - Very sturdy car at speeds below 150km/h, which is all you'll ever need in this car. Appearance - Not the best designed car, though I personally liked mine a lot. Cost of ownership - So long as everything is in good shape, cost of ownership is very affordable for a student like I was when I had one. Fun Factor - This was a good car to mess around in. The 2.0L DOHC 135hp gave it a good kick for a car that's supposed to be used for the commute to school and work.
July 6, 2009Great little car that is perfect for a first car or a weekend driver. Picks up very nicely and still manages to get high 20's in M.P.G despite being twenty one years old. I've had it for a year and haven't had to replace anything! Its fun to drive and whip around corners and can accelerate and decelerate faster than alot of other coupes.
February 8, 2010Enjoyable to drive. Head turner. Pop up headlights. Plenty of acceleration and excellent handling. McPherson struts. Twin cam 2.0L engine.
July 7, 2008I had this car in my early twenties and it was a great vehicle to drive around in on a nice sunny day with the top down. It was great not having to fill up more than once a month. Runs great, and will make someone else very happy.
March 17, 2012for a car that was made in 1988/9 this was great 150bhp out of the 2.0 ok brakes, good on the bend's and would top out at about 145mph ish. i would have another one anyday.
March 18, 2008An exciting car to drive. Light and fast. Cloth interior and alloys as standard. They come with sunroof and/or AC. FWD so traction's good. Lots of fun if you can find one now.
February 21, 2008
