4th Gen (1986 to 1989)

The Toyota Celica, manufactured globally from 1986 until 1989 in its fourth-generation form, represents a radical pivot point in automotive history where the nameplate transitioned from rear-wheel-drive "pony car" to a high-tech, front-drive and all-wheel-drive powerhouse. Built on the T160 chassis, this era famously introduced the ST165 GT-Four in late 1986—Toyota’s first turbocharged, AWD homologation special—which secured the brand's first-ever Rally Australia victory in 1989 and paved the way for Carlos Sainz’s 1990 world title. In the 2026 Australian market, the fourth-gen Celica is a definitive underdog of the "Radwood" era, often overlooked in favour of the earlier rear-drive models, yet it is now seeing a massive resurgence as a credible entry-point into JDM ownership. The local buyer pool is a high-energy mix of rally purists and grassroots racers who frequently field the naturally aspirated SX at roll racing nights and local hill climbs, where its balanced handling and bulletproof 3S-GE engine still prove competitive. Desirability has reached a fever pitch in 2026 following the recent spotting of a camouflaged 2027 WRC prototype testing in Europe, which many believe is the precursor to a reborn GR Celica slated for a local 2027 arrival. Consequently, the market value of the fourth-gen Celica in Australia has remained impressively firm; while standard liftbacks remain an affordable choice for budget-conscious drivers, the legendary ST165 GT-Four has ascended into the realm of blue-chip collector assets, with pristine examples now commanding premium prices from investors eager to own the machine that kickstarted Toyota’s era of global rally dominance.

The Toyota Celica, manufactured globally from 1986 until 1989 in its fourth-generation form, represents a radical pivot point in automotive history where the nameplate transitioned from rear-wheel-drive "pony car" to a high-tech, front-drive and all-wheel-drive powerhouse. Built on the T160 chassis, this era famously introduced the ST165 GT-Four in late 1986—Toyota’s first turbocharged, AWD homologation special—which secured the brand's first-ever Rally Australia victory in 1989 and paved the wa… Read more