The Toyota 2000GT '67 stands as a monumental icon in the history of Japanese automotive engineering, often credited as the car that announced Japan's arrival onto the global stage of sports car manufacturing. Introduced in 1967 as a collaborative masterpiece between Toyota and Yamaha, the 2000GT showcased a sleek, stunning design unmistakably influenced by the grand touring coupes of Europe. Its flowing curves, pop-up headlights, and elegant proportions made it an instant classic, and it is widely regarded as Japan’s first true supercar.
Under the hood, the Toyota 2000GT was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-six engine, developed with Yamaha, capable of producing around 150 horsepower. This allowed the car to achieve a top speed of approximately 135 mph (217 km/h) and acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 8.6 seconds—astonishing figures for its time, especially from a Japanese automaker. Its advanced engineering included a five-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel disc brakes, and a limited-slip differential, rivaling the best Europe and America had to offer.
Despite its racing pedigree, which included victories in the Japanese Grand Prix and a starring role in the James Bond film 'You Only Live Twice,' the 2000GT was not a high-volume seller. Only 351 units were produced between 1967 and 1970, partly due to its high price and exclusivity. Yet, its limited numbers have only increased its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Today, the Toyota 2000GT '67 is revered for both its stunning looks and its pivotal role in elevating Toyota—and Japanese automotive manufacturing—onto the world stage.
