I have a chance on a mint 1990 Toyota Celica All-Trac Turbo. Very rare and very well maintained. The car has been driven 132K but looks and runs like new. HKS intake and exhaust. Also, 200+ HP. Mine for $6.5K. I work with the original owner.

I'm a little concerned about buying a used turbo, especially with this many miles on it. AWD is very attractive however. I have owned several Celica's in the 70's and loved them all.

Would you buy a used turbo? Is 132K of impeccable maintainance enough to catch your attention? What kind of questions should I be asking?

Thanks.

 

I bought a '91 MR2 turbo (same engine) with 41k on it. The turbo was already blowing oil. I'd be a little wary of one with that mileage.

 

Toyota engines are very tough, even w/ mods, so I wouldn't be too concerned. You may need a turbo replacement before long, but it shouldn't be a big deal since you're getting the car so cheap. I used to know a guy who autocrossed one, and it was a really cool car, probably the best Celica ever.

I'd have it checked over by a mechanic who's experienced w/ turbos and AWD powertrains.

 

$6,500 is not a deal on that car. I know they are very rare and are wonderful cars but look up the value on the car. $6,500.00 is what it should be worth in good condition and I would definitely count on spending some mone on maintenance and/or preventative maintenance. I'm sure the turbo is close to worn out as those are not ball bearing turbo's. The car if well kept should offer many more years of enjoyment and those are fun cars but not as quick as most people think. If you're after all wheel drive and a turbo you can pick up a 1st Generation Eclipse/Talon/Laser for less money and get much more performance.

 

What's wrong with buying a used turbo car? Of course, figure into your budget that you will probably have to replace it at some point, but other than that, everything should be fine.

I have driven a 1993 Celica All Trac and it was a heavy tank-like car. Definitely not what I'd call a sports car.