Description
1978 Toyota Celica GT - Liftback Model
Offered for sale is a beautifully preserved and remarkably original 1978 Toyota Celica GT, finished in its factory shade of blue with a contrasting cream leather interior. First registered in 1978, this example stands out not only for its exceptionally low mileage of just 18, 444 miles, but also for its rare continuity of ownership and extraordinary period of careful storage.
According to the paperwork provided, this Celica was manufactured in Japan on 7 December 1978 before being imported to the United Kingdom, where it was first registered to Mrs Noreen Besent. The original lady owner cherished the car from 1978 until 2010, using it only briefly during the first two years of its life. The last tax disc on file confirms that the car was taken off the road early in its history, after which Mrs Besent gave up driving and the Celica was placed into dry, heated storage for several decades. This long period of preservation is a significant factor in the exceptional condition in which the car survives today.
The recorded ownership continues as follows:
1978–2010: Mrs Noreen Besent
2010–2014: Mr James Barton
2014–2014: Mr John Pickersgill
2014–2025: Mr Conor Morgan
The history file contains old tax discs, previous V5 documents and a written list that chart the car’s ownership journey, the original Toyota Celica Owner’s Manual, and the original Celica Liftback by Toyota sales brochure. A collection of invoices demonstrates careful servicing and maintenance, particularly following the car’s awakening from long-term storage.
The Celica has benefited from a sympathetic and well-documented restoration carried out by Mr Adrian O Boyle. Photographs within the history folder show the original look prior to restoration. The restoration included an outer-body strip-down to bare metal before repainting in a high-gloss application of the original colour. The body received comprehensive rust protection, preserving the integrity of the vehicle while maintaining its authenticity. The interior remains in superb condition, presenting as a well-kept and lightly used example of late-1970s Toyota craftsmanship.
It is exceptionally difficult to find a Celica GT of this era with such low mileage, such minimal use, and such traceable history. The combination of long-term heated storage, limited ownership, and professional restoration places this example among the finest available anywhere.
Presented today in excellent condition, this 1978 Toyota Celica GT represents a rare opportunity for the collector or enthusiast seeking a highly original, beautifully preserved, and well-documented example of Toyota’s iconic Liftback.
Viewing is by appointment only.
