First time poster... With a question about a first Celica Options

[Speedy-Sloth]

Hey guys!

I've been lurking about on here for months now, trying to learn as much as I can about 6th Gen's. Ive always thought they were beautiful but until really reading into it I had no idea quite how cool a car the 6th gen's have the potential to be!

I've always liked toyotas ever since my dad brought home a 4th gen when I was a kid, but unfortunately for years now I've been living in essentially pedestrian only zones so a car and for that matter a driving permit seemed... Pointless... Having recently relocated to the Isle of Man, I can finally get my arse in gear... It's almost embarrasing to think at 25 i'm still not driving :S.

I'm looking to learn in the best way possible, and why not do it in the car I've wanted for years... Better than a 1.1 fiesta popular

Luckily for me living on the Island, I have the benefit that most of the cars here are Very low mileage. Sub 50k '95-'99 ST's are everywhere but they all cost near enough to £2750...  GTs tend to be the same price but they are few and far between. 

Suppose you get what you pay for... Anywho... What I really want to know from some of you is this, it's near enough the same price for me to get an ST or a GT, both cars would set me back about £2200 post haggling and near enough £700 to insure. Is the difference between the 2 engines noticeable enough to warrant the extra searching?

If so have you any advice on what to look for as well I'd be grateful, I really wouldn't want to finally get my dream car only to find it has a shagged engine because I don't know what to look for!

Cheers in advance guys,

Speedy-Sloth

[jimmykay]

personally, I have no clue how rare the GT-4's are overseas, and have no clue how rare they are becoming.
Also, this is going to be your first car. I have a hard time telling you to get a GT-4 because the gt-4 vs gt is a huge power increase, almost double, and its up to you if you can handle the extra power. gt has slightly more power than the st, but comes with disc brakes in rear instead of drums.

I would just hate for you to get a gt-4 and wrap it around a tree or a light pole. (oh god, i must be getting old at 28)
I would personally, get a gt (which sounds like its a more feasible option right now) and grow into it with your driving, then when you're ready for something different, sell it and pick up a gt-4 if you're still interested.

I would look for the usual car things with your shopping. celicas are notorious for rusting at the bottom of the doors.
Also, the valve seals are known to go bad. Look for a white puff of smoke from a cold start.
a lot of age related things should start showing wear. I mean, at best you'll find a '99 which is still 10 years old.

Just trying to help.