Celica GT4 ST185

 Well..... this happened! 

It was a complete barn fiend, that was too good to pass up. I have owned a couple for ST182 celicas in the past, when I was about 19yrs old and and have great memories of them. At the time I could never afford a real GT4, so instead I put a GT4 bonnet on my ST182 GTR. It looked great, but was front wheel drive....still plenty of power for an inexperienced young driver with no fear!! 

Anyway, I had been watching the prices of auctions over the past year and really couldn't believe how quickly they have been rising. Prices in Japan are insane right now and I was quickly seeing my hopes of getting one disappear. I had been watching the Celicas for a while and found one that was in need of restoration. However, after the owner shared so pictures, it was half a car....with serious need of panel replacement and welding. A little more work than I wanted to commit to. 

I decided to search the UK for an imported example, so see what was available. I really didn't want to import one blindly and pay an excessive premium for the privilege. 

After finding one that looked great, I started negotiating with the owner. It turned out that this was his Grandfathers old car, and his Grandfather had sadly passed away. He was using it in the short term with his girlfriend but due to purchasing a new house, they needed the cash. OKAY - so the story checked out, as did history and MOT checks. Photos looked good and it was rust free......it was time to commit and take the plunge. As I was working offshore, I took the risk and purchased it sight unseen, and arranged for the haulier to collect and deliver. 

The car arrive quickly a week later and no hassle from the previous owner or delivery company. Once it landed on the driveway, I could see some orange peel on the passenger side. Yes, it has had a poor spray job..... but zero rust as promised. Also, some other areas had the rattle can paint job effect, hower I think this has all been cosmetic repairs by the Grandfather. 

The car has covered about 200 miles a year for the last 10 years. Prior to the owner keeping it, it was imported by the original owner (unknown). Upon first inspection its in great condition for a 29 year old car. Interior is near mint, with original stereo and no modifications at all. 

Exterior wise, the paint needs attention, however, the strong point is no rust! I checked the arches, etc and strut tops  plus sills and wheel arches and all good!! 

The previous owner was all above board and told me before hand that the window motor was making some noise, but it did work. Also, that the horn seems to have an issue an d doest work so Ill need to sort that for the next MOT! 

Apart from that, it seems a great car and a solid base for restoration........I think a full paint job is on the cars down the line! Plus some engine bay cleaning and painting......