The Celica has long been ahead of its time as far as styling is concerned. Seems like you just get used to the funky looks of the latest Celica and Toyota unveils a new one to challenge your retinas. This version of the Celica, while toned down somewhat from its predecessor, is still difficult to swallow at first glance. If not for the odd headlights and oversized rear spoiler, it would be a very pretty car. But it's not.

Reminding our staffers of several species of brutal underwater fish, the front styling is just too radical, despite some slight revision for 1996. However, the interior of the Celica is quite nice, with a subdued driving environment that places all the controls in all the right places. The effect is somewhat Teutonic in nature, and is nicely complimented by snug, supportive seats, covered in a new-for-1996 fabric. New wheelcovers for the ST and two new colors are also new this year.

ST models are rather basic, and power is supplied by a 1.8-liter twin-cam four cylinder that makes a whopping 105 horsepower. Front disc/rear drum brakes are the only ones available on the ST, and ABS is optional.

Under the hood of the GT is a 135-horsepower 2.2-liter four cylinder that moves the Celica briskly but without fanfare. Four-wheel discs are standard; ABS is optional. Compared to most of the competition in the sport coupe class, the Celica is woefully underpowered. But boy, it's as reliable as Grandma's pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving dinner.

A new convertible version appeared for 1995, and is the most attractive Celica drop-top in a decade, despite the bulging headlights and gaping air dam. Powered by the same 2.2-liter engine as the GT but hauling around some extra weight, don't expect the Celica convertible to force you back in your seat while doing the on-ramp shuffle. And at a starting cost of $24,000, we have three words for potential drop-top buyers: Mustang GT Convertible.

The Celica is solid, reasonably sporty, and has an outstanding reliability record. We can't recommend it, though, when less-expensive and speedier cars like the Probe GT, Neon Sport Coupe and Acura Integra are available for the taking.

1996 Highlights

Front and rear styling tweaks, a new spoiler, new wheel covers, two new colors and revised fabrics debut this year on the 1996 Toyota Celica.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1996 Toyota Celica.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.916 reviews

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5(87%)

4(13%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Fantastic quality automobile... Classic

Keith,01/24/2009

This car was owned by my brother first for 4 years. It went through many drivers when he owned it and was always extremely reliable and economical to own. I bought it a few months ago after a minor accident. I fixed the imperfections and am now driving it everyday. It's getting about 23 mpg with the top down most of the time. It shifts very smooth and takes corners effortlessly.

The Best of the Celicas

mikeyL,07/22/2002

A great touring car with enough pep to get up the most challenging hills. A stick is recommended because it gives the car more get up and go, The handling is great and the trunk is spacious for a car of its size.

Exellent

gelpija,09/08/2002

The car is in excelent condition. Service has been provided regularly by dealer. The car is economic in fuel use and has not required any type of major repair

Good solid fun convertible

03/20/2002

Fun and reliable . . . says it all.

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Features & Specs

MPG

19 city / 26 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed manual

Gas

130 hp @ 5400 rpm

MPG

19 city / 26 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed manual

Gas

130 hp @ 5400 rpm

See all Used 1996 Toyota Celica features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
0

More about the 1996 Toyota Celica

Used 1996 Toyota Celica Overview

The Used 1996 Toyota Celica is offered in the following submodels: Celica Hatchback, Celica Coupe, Celica Convertible. Available styles include ST 2dr Hatchback, ST 2dr Coupe, ST 25th Anniversary 2dr Hatchback, GT 2dr Hatchback, GT 25th Anniversary 2dr Convertible, GT 2dr Convertible, and GT 2dr Coupe.

What's a good price on a Used 1996 Toyota Celica?

Price comparisons for Used 1996 Toyota Celica trim styles:

The Used 1996 Toyota Celica GT is priced between $5,995 and$5,995 with odometer readings between 92137 and92137 miles.

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Which used 1996 Toyota Celicas are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 1996 Toyota Celica for sale near. There are currently 1 used and CPO 1996 Celicas listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $5,995 and mileage as low as 92137 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 1996 Toyota Celica.

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Find a used Toyota Celica for sale - 10 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $15,329.

Find a used Toyota for sale - 8 great deals out of 18 listings starting at $23,979.

Find a used certified pre-owned Toyota Celica for sale - 12 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $22,223.

Find a used certified pre-owned Toyota for sale - 1 great deals out of 5 listings starting at $22,917.

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Should I lease or buy a 1996 Toyota Celica?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Used 1996 Toyota Celica

Used