1967 Toyota 2000 GT Coupe

In the 1960s Toyota wanted to build a world-class car because the Japanese auto industry wanted to expand worldwide. Based on SCCA demands the 1967 model had many performance features not needed on a car designed for the street.

Toyota did the design but Yamaha built the car. In designing the car, Toyota used the technology of that era. Most of the performance features were from European influences. The car was hand built, so each individual body part was stamped with a number. The body is one welded piece of steel. The dash, console, steering wheel, etc., were fabricated by the Yamaha Piano & Violin craftsmen. The wheels are magnesium, which was used to make them light and strong.

These cars were built in the 1968-1970 model years. 351 total cars worldwide were made in the four years of production.

During the 1968 SCCA racing season, two 2000GTs were raced. They were prepared by The Carroll Shelby Organization in Southern California. After the 1968 season, Toyota decided to change direction with their racing efforts and the 2000GT's faded into history. The two Shelby-prepared cars are still active. One is in the state of Maine. The other is in Florida. Most of the 40 remaining GT's are in museum's or private collections.