Keanu Reeves' Race-Prepped Scion tC Heads to Auction
This article spotlights a very special 2005 Scion tC, which is currently on the auction block. What makes this vehicle stand out is its past, having been piloted by the renowned actor Keanu Reeves in the high-profile Toyota Pro/Celebrity race. Beyond its celebrity connection, the car is a finely tuned racing machine, boasting a supercharged engine and comprehensive race modifications. This offers a rare chance for aspiring racers or collectors to acquire a car with a storied past and genuine performance capabilities, reflecting Reeves's personal journey from amateur to professional in the racing world.
Keanu Reeves' Former Scion tC Race Car Up for Grabs
The spotlight is currently on a 2005 Scion tC, now available for auction on Bring a Trailer. This particular vehicle holds a significant place in motorsport history, having been famously driven by the celebrated actor Keanu Reeves. Reeves, known globally for his iconic roles, is also a passionate motorsport enthusiast. In 2009, he achieved victory in the fiercely competitive Toyota Pro/Am race behind the wheel of this very Scion tC. His involvement in racing has since escalated, with the actor transitioning to professional racing in Toyota's GR Cup in 2024, driving a GR86.
The Toyota Pro/Celebrity race, an annual fixture alongside the Long Beach Grand Prix for nearly four decades until its conclusion a decade ago, was a unique spectacle. It pitted celebrities against professional drivers in specially modified Toyota compacts, with stars receiving a 30-second head start. This format often led to exciting, and sometimes chaotic, races, drawing considerable attention to both the participants and the vehicles.
This 2005 Scion tC, a veteran of such events, is far from a standard road car. It has been meticulously prepared for racing, featuring a robust roll cage, five-point harnesses for driver safety, and an onboard fire suppression system. Mechanically, the vehicle is enhanced with upgraded brakes and a heavy-duty clutch. The heart of this race machine is its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which has been supercharged. Coupled with aftermarket headers and exhaust, this boosted engine is estimated to produce approximately 250 horsepower, placing it squarely in the performance sweet spot for a front-wheel-drive setup. After its stint with Reeves in the 2010 Pro/Celebrity race, the car found a new home at a racing school located at Willow Springs in California, where it continued its life on the track.
For those contemplating a foray into the world of racing, this Scion tC presents an intriguing and potentially more accessible option compared to the considerable investment required for a new GR86 Cup car, which can start at $125,000 plus substantial per-race expenses. This car offers a more budget-friendly entry point into motorsport, allowing for a similar developmental path to racing that Keanu Reeves himself embarked upon, albeit without the 'instant kung fu' style learning of his cinematic characters. The auction for this unique vehicle is scheduled to conclude on April 23.
This auction of Keanu Reeves' former race car serves as a compelling reminder that passion knows no bounds, even for those at the pinnacle of their respective careers. It highlights the allure of motorsport and the dedicated journey many undertake to master the craft of racing. For enthusiasts, it’s not just about owning a car; it's about connecting with a legacy and perhaps, inspiring one's own pursuit of speed and skill. It demonstrates that with the right vehicle, commitment, and a bit of a dream, anyone can embark on their own racing adventure, following in the tire tracks of a celebrity who truly loves the sport.