The Toyota Celica 1.6 ST (TA60) was a coupe produced between 1982 and 1985, representing the second generation of the Celica model line. Falling within the TA60, RA40, and RA6 chassis codes, the 1.6 ST occupied a position as an entry-level to mid-range offering in the Celica lineup, providing a balance between affordability and sporty styling. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a stylish, reliable, and relatively economical rear-wheel-drive coupe. This generation Celica marked a significant departure from the earlier, more compact models, adopting a larger, more angular design influenced by the contemporary American automotive aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Celica |
| Generation | Celica (TA60,RA40,RA6) |
| Type | 1.6 ST (TA60) (86 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1982 |
| End of production | 1985 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 121.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 4000 rpm (87.03 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2T-B |
| Engine displacement | 1588 cm3 (96.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 70 mm (2.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4330 mm (170.47 in.) |
| Width | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Height | 1320 mm (51.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1350 mm (53.15 in.) |
| Rear track | 1365 mm (53.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.6 ST variant of the Celica was powered by the 2T-B engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilized a single overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain and a carburetor for fuel delivery. The 2T-B engine produced 86 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The transmission was a five-speed manual, offering a relatively engaging driving experience for the time. The 2T-B engine, while not particularly powerful, was known for its reliability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. It was a common engine in other Toyota models of the era, benefiting from economies of scale in production and parts availability.
Driving Characteristics
The Celica 1.6 ST, with its 86 horsepower and five-speed manual transmission, offered a decent, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but it wasn’t a particularly quick car. The rear-wheel-drive layout provided a balanced feel, and the suspension, while basic, offered a comfortable ride. Compared to the more powerful Celica variants, such as those equipped with larger engines or fuel injection, the 1.6 ST felt noticeably slower. However, its lighter weight and simpler mechanicals contributed to better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. The five-speed transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing performance. The gear ratios were spaced to provide reasonable acceleration in each gear, although the car lacked the punch of more powerful alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 ST trim level represented a fairly basic specification within the Celica range. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument cluster, and manual windows and locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Exterior features included steel wheels with hubcaps, and relatively simple trim. Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, power windows, and a sunroof. The 1.6 ST was aimed at buyers who prioritized value and reliability over extensive features.
Chassis & Braking
The Celica 1.6 ST utilized a body-on-frame construction, which was common for rear-wheel-drive cars of the era. The front suspension was an independent coil spring setup, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension was a rigid axle with leaf springs, a more traditional design that prioritized simplicity and durability. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Power steering was available as an option, making the car easier to maneuver at low speeds. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between handling and ride comfort, although it wasn’t as sophisticated as the fully independent suspension systems found on more expensive sports cars.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Celica 1.6 ST was generally well-received by automotive critics as an affordable and reliable coupe. It was praised for its stylish design and decent handling, but criticized for its relatively low power output. Compared to other trims in the Celica lineup, such as the 1.6 GT or the 2.4 models, the 1.6 ST offered a more economical option for buyers who didn’t require the extra performance. Fuel economy was a strong point for the 1.6 ST, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. Reliability was also a key selling point, as Toyota had a reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. In the broader market, the Celica 1.6 ST competed with other affordable coupes, such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, although it offered a more refined and fuel-efficient alternative.
Legacy
The Toyota Celica 1.6 ST (TA60) has become a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. The 2T-B engine, while not a high-performance unit, is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance. Parts availability is generally good, as many components were shared with other Toyota models of the era. The rear-wheel-drive layout and sporty styling continue to appeal to enthusiasts. Today, well-maintained examples of the Celica 1.6 ST are sought after by collectors and those looking for a classic Japanese coupe. While not the fastest or most luxurious Celica variant, the 1.6 ST represents a significant piece of Toyota’s automotive history and offers a unique driving experience.
