1967 Toyota 2000 GT most expensive Toyota ever sold

A 1967 Toyota 2000 GT was auctioned for an incredible $ 1.15 million, which makes it the most expensive Toyota ever sold and most expensive Asian car ever, according to the publisher of Hagerty’s Price Guide. The Toyota 2000 GT stands in line of Toyota’s long history of creating exciting, driver-focused sports cars which started with the introduction of the 2-cylinder boxer engined Sports 800 in 1962 and lives on in the Toyota 86.
“When the Toyota 2000 GT was built I was eleven years old, and I loved it. I said, I want to drive something like this when I grow up. My dream came true when I drove a 2000 GT in a vintage car rally. That was a really great experience,” said Akio Toyoda, president, Toyota Motor Corporation. “I want young people to feel those same desires when they see a new Toyota sports car. I want to transfer the thrill of the race track to our vehicles, and make driving fun and exciting for our customers.”
The 2000 GT was powered by a 2.0L straight-6 with a double overhead camshaft that generated 112kW and could reach 220 km/h on the track. The Japanese “supercar” established three world endurance records, including the fastest average speed continuously over 16,000 km at 207km/h.
Its elegant, flowing form was distinctively prominent among car designs in those days and it created a sensation overseas; so much that a specially customized 2000GT convertible appeared with Sean Connery in the James Bond movie, “You only live twice” in 1967.
During development of the 86, chief engineer Tetsuya Tada placed a 2000 GT in the studio next to the designers’ clay model. The result is that the 86 is infused with the character of the 2000 GT, especially the graceful side-window shape, long bonnet and rear fender line.
Similar to the collaboration with Subaru on the 86, the 2000GT was jointly developed with Yamaha Motor Co., which tuned the engine and assembled parts.
The Toyota 86 captures the best elements of three key models its rich heritage - the Sports 800, 2000GT and AE86 - and delivers passionate sports car fans in Saudi Arabia and around the world a unique and exciting driving experience.