Toyota Celica GT-Four ST205
1994-1999
The ST205 embodies Toyota's rally heritage in its purest form, combining turbocharged power with an advanced AWD system that could tackle any road condition. It represents the zenith of 1990s Japanese sports car engineering, built to homologate Toyota's WRC efforts.
Quick Take
The ST205 was the final and most powerful generation of the all-wheel-drive Celica GT-Four, developed from Toyota's WRC program. It featured a sophisticated AWD system with front, center, and rear differentials, making it one of the most capable all-weather sports cars of its era.
Best For
Key Strength
3S-GTE Turbo Powerplant
Watch For
Engine Reliability Concerns
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Developed as a homologation special for Toyota's World Rally Championship program, the ST205 carried forward decades of rally DNA. It was the culmination of the Celica GT-Four lineage that began in 1986, representing Toyota's commitment to all-wheel-drive performance.
Design Philosophy
Form follows function defines the ST205's aggressive aesthetic, with wider fenders, functional hood scoops, and aerodynamic elements serving the turbocharged AWD drivetrain. The design prioritized cooling, airflow, and visual aggression while maintaining the Celica's sports coupe proportions.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The 3S-GTE delivers power with typical turbo lag followed by a strong mid-range surge that pulls hard to redline. It's an engine that rewards commitment, building boost aggressively and delivering its 245 horsepower with mechanical intensity rather than refinement.
Chassis Dynamics
The sophisticated AWD system provides incredible traction and stability, allowing the ST205 to deploy its power effectively in all conditions. The suspension strikes a balance between rally-inspired stiffness and street compliance, with predictable handling that builds driver confidence.
Sound Signature
The turbocharged four-cylinder produces a distinctive wastegate chatter and aggressive exhaust note under boost. It's an unmistakably mechanical sound that announces its rally heritage.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder is a tuning legend, capable of handling massive power increases with proper supporting modifications. Factory 245hp is just the starting point, with 400+ whp builds being common in the community.
Toyota's sophisticated all-wheel-drive system features a viscous coupling center differential with locking capability. The system provides exceptional traction and neutral handling characteristics that made it dominant in World Rally Championship competition.
Honest Tradeoffs
The 3S-GTE is notorious for catastrophic failures, particularly blown head gaskets and spun rod bearings. These issues are often exacerbated by boost modifications without proper supporting upgrades and maintenance.
Even by 90s standards, the cabin feels cheap with hard plastics throughout and seats that lack proper bolstering. The dashboard layout is functional but uninspiring, and many interior pieces are prone to cracking with age.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for enthusiasts who want rally-bred performance with daily usability, especially those in challenging climates. Appeals to collectors of 1990s Japanese sports cars and anyone seeking genuine all-weather capability.