1981 Toyota Celica Supra: The Birth of a Legend on Bring a Trailer

The Toyota Supra’s origins date back to the Celica, with the first-generation model featuring a smooth inline-six-cylinder engine.

This 1981 Toyota Celica Supra, currently listed on Bring a Trailer, marks the beginning of the Supra legend.

With its 2.8-liter engine producing 116 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, this car embodies the refinement of six-cylinder power.

The interior features vinyl and cloth seating, air conditioning, and a graphic equalizer for the cassette stereo.

The car has undergone engine reconditioning, including new valve seals, head gaskets, and a new muffler.

This Celica Supra is a rare find, especially considering its connection to Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who owned a Celica XX in her youth. The auction ends on October 28, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.

As the Supra evolved into a standalone model, it gained a reputation for speed and performance, but this early example showcases the breed’s origins in refinement and grand touring.

With the Celica poised to make a return, this 1981 Toyota Celica Supra serves as a reminder of the legendary names that once shared the same space.