1971 Toyota Celica (TA2) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Toyota Celica (TA2) ranges from 964 kg to 1116 kg (approximately 2,125 to 2,460 pounds), depending on the specific trim and equipment level. The maximum permissible weight, which includes passengers, cargo, and the vehicle’s own weight, is 1415 kg (around 3,121 pounds). This relatively lightweight design contributes to the car's agile handling characteristics, making it responsive for its time, while still maintaining solid road presence and stability.

The Toyota Celica (TA2) features a luggage compartment capacity of 273 liters (about 9.6 cubic feet), which, for a compact sports coupe of its era, offers a functional amount of storage space suitable for everyday use or weekend trips. Additionally, the roof of the Celica (TA2) supports a load of up to 50 kg (approximately 110 pounds), enabling the attachment of roof racks or carriers for extra cargo, such as luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear, thereby improving its versatility.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Toyota Celica (TA2) ranges between 155 mm and 175 mm (roughly 6.1 to 6.9 inches). This moderate ground clearance strikes a good balance between sporty handling and practicality. It allows the car to maintain a low center of gravity for improved cornering and stability while still providing enough clearance to navigate most paved roads and mild obstacles without scraping the underside.

The Toyota Celica (TA2) came equipped with rim sizes varying between 4.5J x 13, 5J x 13, 5J x 13.5, and 5.5J x 14, reflecting different trims and optional packages. The matched tire size for these rims is generally 185/70 R14. This tire specification provides a good blend of comfort, grip, and performance suitable for the compact sports coupe design of the Celica, maintaining the original driving dynamics and appearance.

Yes, the Toyota Celica (TA2) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its maximum length of 4331 mm (approximately 170.5 inches or about 14.2 feet) and width up to 1636 mm (64.4 inches or around 5.4 feet), it is well within the space dimensions of most typical single-car garages, which usually measure about 6 meters (20 feet) deep and 3 meters (10 feet) wide. Its low height, maximally 1321 mm (52 inches), also means it can easily fit under standard garage doors and crossbeams without clearance issues.

The Toyota Celica (TA2) refreshed the compact coupe formula established by its predecessor, the TA22 generation. While exact dimensions of the TA22 vary slightly, the TA2 generally shows a slight increase in length, width, and weight, offering a more substantial and modern feel. The TA2's increase in length, up to 4331 mm (170.5 inches), reflects a trend toward more cabin and trunk space, while maintaining a similar low height profile for sporty aesthetics. The width expanded up to 1636 mm (64.4 inches) versus the narrower predecessor, improving stability and interior room. Overall, the TA2 representation marked a practical yet sportier evolution of the Celica lineage.

Compared to similar compact coupes of the 1970s, such as the Datsun 240Z, Ford Capri, and Opel Manta, the Toyota Celica (TA2) fitted comfortably into the sporty coupe segment with competitive dimensions. With lengths ranging from 4163 to 4331 mm (163.8 to 170.5 inches), the Celica is typically shorter than the slightly longer Ford Capri but comparable to the Datsun 240Z. Its width of up to 1636 mm (64.4 inches) is marginally narrower than some competitors, contributing to its lightweight and nimble character. Ground clearance and curb weight place the Celica favorably for agile handling, and its 273-liter luggage capacity is practical for the class. The TA2’s compact yet functional proportions made it a well-balanced choice for enthusiasts seeking a stylish, sporty coupe.

The Toyota Celica (TA2) introduced between 1973 and 1978 came with a notable facelift and refinement compared to its predecessor. It retained the classic coupe silhouette but featured updated body lines that were slightly more aerodynamic and modern for the time. Performance-wise, the TA2 offered improved suspension tuning and engine options, focusing on better handling and driving enjoyment. The incorporation of wider rims and tires, up to 14 inches with 185/70 R14 tires, enhanced road grip and stability. These improvements resulted in a more mature and refined driving experience without losing the sportiness and compact charm the Celica was known for.

The Toyota Celica (TA2) is primarily a two-door coupe designed to seat four passengers, with two front bucket seats and a rear bench seat. While the rear seats are somewhat compact due to the coupe design, they are sufficient for short trips or smaller passengers. The combination of moderate interior space, a manageable overall vehicle size, and a functional luggage compartment of 273 liters makes the TA2 a practical option for daily commuting and weekend drives. It balances sporty appeal with everyday usability, appealing to those who want the flair of a coupe without completely sacrificing practicality.