The 1967 Toyota 2000GT represents the definitive moment Japan entered the global supercar arena. Developed through a high-profile collaboration with Yamaha, this model proved that Toyota could produce a world-class grand tourer. Chassis 10128 is a particularly storied example, having traveled through Mozambique, South Africa, and Costa Rica before joining a prestigious UK collection. Its journey eventually led to the ownership of racing legend Bobby Rahal. Recently, the car secured a class victory at the 2024 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
Hand-Built Design and Engineering
Yamaha craftsmen constructed the 1967 Toyota 2000GT by hand at the Iwata factory. This meticulous process resulted in a car that stands less than 46 inches tall at its peak. Satoru Nozaki designed the flowing bodywork, which features pop-up headlights and large driving lamps faired into the nose. The steel X-shaped backbone frame provides a rigid foundation for the four-wheel independent suspension. Consequently, the car offered handling characteristics that rivaled the best European sports cars of the decade.
Refining the Solar Red Exterior
This 1967 Toyota 2000GT underwent an extensive refurbishment in Costa Rica between 2013 and 2014. During this time, the body was removed from the frame and refinished in the striking factory shade of Solar Red. Professionals in Chicago replated the brightwork, including the grille surround and bumpers, to ensure a concours-level finish. Subsequent freshening in the UK further addressed the paint and body panels to maintain its stunning appearance. Every detail reflects the care required to win at major international events.
Inside the Right-Hand-Drive Cockpit
The interior of the 1967 Toyota 2000GT showcases a blend of racing utility and luxury craftsmanship. Black vinyl seats with knitted inserts provide a classic feel for the right-hand-drive configuration. Rich wood veneer accents the dashboard and center console, highlighting the Yamaha partnership. Drivers interact with a wood-rimmed steering wheel and a distinctive L-shaped handbrake lever. The inclusion of Jeco timepieces and a dual-faced rally timer emphasizes the car’s grand touring intentions. It remains a functional and highly aesthetic workspace.
Advanced Suspension and Braking Systems
Beneath the beautiful bodywork, this 1967 Toyota 2000GT features significant mechanical upgrades performed in 2015. Technical experts installed replacement Eibach springs and Öhlins shock absorbers to refine the ride quality. The steering rack was rebuilt, and the servo-assisted disc brake system received a complete overhaul. Magnesium alloy wheels remain a signature feature, secured by bright knock-offs for a period-correct look. These updates ensure the car performs as brilliantly as it looks on the show lawn.
The Yamaha 3M Inline-Six Performance
The heart of this 1967 Toyota 2000GT is the 1,988cc 3M inline-six engine. This powerplant utilizes a cast iron block paired with a Yamaha-designed aluminum cylinder head. It features dual overhead camshafts and hemispherical combustion chambers for efficient power delivery. Triple Mikuni-Solex 40 PHH carburetors provide the air and fuel mixture, having been fully rebuilt in 2015. Power reaches the rear wheels through an all-synchromesh five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. This setup produces a smooth, high-revving character unique to Japanese engineering.
Engine Output and Technical Specifications
The 1967 Toyota 2000GT delivers its performance through a 2.0L DOHC inline-six engine. Induction is handled by triple Mikuni-Solex carburetors, while the cooling system features a factory-correct radiator. A five-speed manual gearbox and rebuilt limited-slip differential manage the engine’s power. The car rides on 15-inch magnesium alloy wheels wrapped in Vredestein Sprint Classic tires. Braking is provided by four-wheel discs, supported by a refurbished servo system. These specifications highlight the car’s role as a sophisticated technological showcase.
Summary
This 1967 Toyota 2000GT is one of the most documented and celebrated examples of the MF10 series. Its recent win at Amelia Island under Bobby Rahal’s ownership confirms its status as a world-class collectible. With only 351 units ever produced, finding an example with such diverse global history is incredibly rare. The car benefits from years of professional maintenance and high-quality restoration work across multiple continents. It stands as a perfect representative of Toyota’s first foray into the elite sports car market. This 2000GT is ready for its next chapter in a premier automotive collection.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
