Cars

The Highly Coveted 1991 Toyota Celica GT-Four RC: A Rally Homologation Special

This article explores the iconic 1991 Toyota Celica GT-Four RC, a rare rally homologation special that embodies a unique blend of performance and historical significance. We delve into its distinctive features, such as its enhanced engine, advanced cooling system, and rally-inspired design, highlighting why this model remains a coveted collector’s item. The piece also touches on the car’s journey to the U.S. and its appeal to automotive enthusiasts who appreciate its rich racing heritage and robust engineering.

Embrace the Legacy: Drive the Untamed Spirit of Rally History

The Resurgence of the Celica Nameplate: A Blast from the Past

When Toyota hinted at bringing back the Celica, many casual observers probably wondered what the fuss was about. For years, the Celica had been overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the Supra. However, true automotive aficionados understood that a reborn Celica could be something truly special, especially if it recaptured the essence of its performance-oriented predecessors.

A Glimpse into Rally Heritage: The 1991 Celica GT-Four RC

Currently available on Bring a Trailer, this 1991 Celica GT-Four RC offers a compelling answer to the question of the Celica's potential. This particular model is a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive homologation special, designed to meet the stringent requirements for rally racing. It harks back to an era when the thrill of navigating a Toyota through virtual gravel stages was a quarter-arcade fantasy.

From Dependable Coupe to Performance Icon: The Evolution of the Celica

The Celica initially emerged in the 1970s as a dependable coupe with a four-cylinder engine. However, by the late 1980s, it had transformed into a formidable performance machine. The 1987 Turbo All-Trac, with its 190-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, was produced in extremely limited numbers, establishing the Celica's reputation as a serious contender.

The Legacy Continues: GT-Four RC and its Rally Descendants

Internationally, the All-Trac was known as the GT-Four, a name that still resonates deeply in Japan, even appearing on the GR Corolla, a modern rally-inspired successor. This featured car is a second-generation GT-Four, specifically the ultra-special RC variant. This version included numerous enhancements, allowing Toyota’s World Rally Championship team to optimize their competitive vehicle.

Engineered for Victory: Power and Performance Upgrades

The GT-Four RC shares its 2.0-liter inline-four engine with the standard GT-Four, but with a significant power boost to 231 horsepower. It also features a sophisticated water-to-air intercooler for superior charge cooling. The factory ECU mapping was more aggressive, and the bodywork was subtly refined for improved aerodynamics and engine cooling. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, complemented by a limited-slip differential at the rear.

Distinctive Design: Rally Aesthetics and Timeless Appeal

The car's exterior, finished in a understated metallic gray, is subtly enhanced by striking white 15-inch Oz Racing wheels, a nod to its WRC roots. Its organic styling and pop-up headlights are characteristic of early 1990s design, making it instantly recognizable to any rally enthusiast as a truly unique vehicle.

Interior Comfort and Modern Connectivity: A Blend of Eras

Inside, the cabin features supportive, comfortable seats and a classic Momo steering wheel, offering excellent tactile feedback. A Kenwood stereo with Bluetooth capability provides modern audio convenience, allowing for seamless streaming of music—perhaps even the 30th Anniversary Sega Rally soundtrack. Notably, the interior maintains a refreshing absence of distracting digital screens.

A Collector's Dream: Low Mileage and Enduring Appeal

With approximately 89,000 miles on the odometer, this Celica strikes an ideal balance: low enough to be desirable but not so pristine that it discourages regular driving. While its rally heritage suggests it could handle rough terrains, its current condition warrants careful treatment. Despite harsh winter conditions, it stands as a genuine classic for all seasons.

Important Considerations for U.S. Buyers: California Emissions

Prospective buyers should be aware that while this car has been in the U.S. since 2021, it has not passed California's emissions testing, which may affect its road registration in that state. Nevertheless, its history in the country adds to its appeal.

Seize the Opportunity: Owning a Piece of Automotive History

Many Toyota fans harbor fond memories of the spirited all-wheel-drive Celicas from this era, whether through personal ownership or virtual racing experiences. While a new performance Celica is anticipated, there's no need to wait. This auction, concluding on February 10, presents a rare chance to own a piece of this celebrated automotive legacy.

Subaru's Electric SUV: A New Era of Performance and Adventure

Subaru introduces its first independently developed electric vehicle, the Trailseeker, setting a new benchmark as the brand's fastest production car, surpassing even its iconic WRX STI models. This all-electric SUV signifies Subaru's strategic shift towards in-house EV manufacturing, initially showcased at the Japan Mobility Show and now confirmed for the Australian market, where the EV segment is rapidly expanding.

Beneath its rugged exterior, the Trailseeker boasts impressive performance specifications. Generating 375 horsepower, it utilizes Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system to achieve a rapid 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.4 seconds. While speed is an inherent benefit of its electric powertrain, the vehicle is primarily engineered for genuine off-road exploration, featuring 8.3 inches of ground clearance, advanced dual-function X-MODE for challenging terrains, and a substantial towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. This mid-size electric SUV is larger and more practical than the Solterra, aligning it closely with the capabilities of an electrified Subaru Outback.

The Trailseeker, built at Subaru's Gunma plant in Japan, benefits from a collaborative effort with Toyota, sharing a modified version of the e-TNGA electric platform also found in the bZ4X and Lexus RZ. Powering this innovative SUV is a 74.7 kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 280 miles and capable of charging from zero to 80% in under 30 minutes. The interior is designed for modern convenience and comfort, featuring Subaru's largest 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a spacious flat-floor cabin. Entering the US market with a starting price of $39,995, the Trailseeker is set to rival electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E, with its arrival in the US scheduled for spring and in Australia a few months later.

Subaru's venture into the electric vehicle market with the Trailseeker is a testament to embracing innovation while honoring its heritage of robust, adventure-ready vehicles. This new offering, with its blend of speed, capability, and environmental consciousness, paves the way for a sustainable future in automotive engineering. It demonstrates that advanced technology and traditional brand values can coexist, driving forward with purpose and excitement, inspiring both drivers and the industry toward greater achievements.

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Lowe's Offers Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer at 36% Discount

A fantastic opportunity awaits those looking to efficiently tackle outdoor cleaning projects. Lowe's is currently offering a notable discount on a popular electric pressure washer, making powerful cleaning accessible and affordable. This device simplifies the arduous task of removing stubborn dirt and mildew, transforming grimy surfaces into pristine ones with ease and speed. Its operational benefits, coupled with positive user experiences, underscore its value for homeowners.

This particular electric pressure washer from Greenworks is presented as an ideal solution for a variety of domestic cleaning needs. Its design prioritizes user convenience and environmental friendliness over traditional, often cumbersome, gas-powered alternatives. With robust performance for light to medium-duty applications and a compelling price point, this offer from Lowe's is poised to attract many who are keen on maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of their outdoor living spaces.

Exceptional Value on the Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer

Homeowners seeking an effective and budget-friendly cleaning tool will find the Greenworks Cold Water Electric Pressure Washer at Lowe's to be an excellent acquisition. Priced at just $89, a substantial 36% reduction from its original price of $139, this electric model offers remarkable value. It's perfectly suited for lighter cleaning duties, such as revitalizing patio furniture, washing vehicles, or tidying up sidewalks. While more powerful versions, including a 2,100-PSI model also on sale for $149, are available, the 1,800 PSI variant provides ample power for common household tasks without the added expense or complexity of higher-end units.

The appeal of this Greenworks pressure washer extends beyond its attractive price. It features a 13-amp universal motor capable of delivering 1.2 gallons of water per minute at 1,800 PSI, making it highly efficient. Designed for user convenience, it incorporates a push-button starter and a total stop system, which automatically shuts off the motor when the trigger is released, enhancing safety and conserving energy. The package includes a generous 35-foot power cord, a spray wand with a 20-foot non-marring hose, three specialized nozzles, and a soap applicator, ensuring users have everything they need for a comprehensive clean. This combination of power, convenience, and included accessories makes it a versatile tool for various cleaning challenges around the home.

User Satisfaction and Practical Benefits

The Greenworks Cold Water Electric Pressure Washer has garnered positive feedback from users, who commend its efficiency and ease of use. One customer highlighted its effectiveness in "cleaning the dirt and mildew off the pavers around my pool," praising it as a "great tool" that is also "very easy to assemble, use, and store." This sentiment underscores the product's ability to deliver satisfactory results for common outdoor cleaning tasks, such as removing stubborn grime from concrete or wooden surfaces, and its user-friendly design that simplifies both operation and storage.

Another satisfied user described the model as "sturdy and well-built," further attesting to its quality and durability. The review also noted that "the pressure is great, and it’s very simple to use," which are crucial attributes for any cleaning equipment. Such testimonials reinforce the idea that this electric pressure washer is a reliable and practical choice for homeowners. Its strong performance in everyday cleaning, coupled with its robust construction and straightforward operation, makes this discounted Greenworks pressure washer a compelling option for anyone looking to maintain a spotless home exterior without significant effort or investment.

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