1980 Toyota Celica

This page is a draft. It has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

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What changed

A mild refresh with square headlights, a new grille and hood, and revised tail lights; the US Grand Prix GT Liftback is offered.^1,2

Transmissions: 5-speed manual³, Automatic^1,2
Drivetrains: Rear-wheel drive³
Trims: ST^1,2, GT^1,2
Packages: Liftback body^2,1, US Grand Prix GT Liftback (1980)², Griffith Sunchaser (1979–1981)²

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Reputation: what owners and the press report. Tap one to see what to check.

Rust behind the body panels All years One source so far

What to check: Look under the car and behind the panels for rust.

Two readers commenting on Curbside Classic's reprint of a 1980 road test say these Celicas rusted away in Ohio and that the backs of the panels had little protection.

Sources ⁴

Rare options, colors and interiors to look out for, and whether finding one is good news.

80V045000 1980
The alternator pulley can crack and break, which stops the battery charging and can scatter pieces. The pulley is replaced.^5,6

Checked against NHTSA records on 21 October 2026.

Every warning and recall for this generation, with a box to tick.