Toyota South Africa is restoring a 2000GT, which it describes as “the crown jewel” in its historic fleet.
The company announced the restoration project in March 2021, and has now released photos of the Toyota 2000GT’s progress.
A key component of the project will be getting spare parts for the car, which was produced limited numbers in the late 1960s.
Fortunately, Toyota Gazoo Racing is producing genuine replacement parts for the vehicle, along with parts for the A70 and A80 Supra models.
“Obtaining the parts was just one part of the challenge. Selecting a team that could take on the task of performing a complete nut-and-bolt restoration on the legendary 2000GT was the second part,” said Toyota.
The company is therefore working with Generation Old School Benoni, who will be in charge of the restoration.
Following an assessment of the car, Toyota said that while the chassis is in good condition, several components will need to be refurbished or replaced.
These include the magnesium alloy wheels.
351 units
The Toyota 2000GT was a very-limited-run vehicle, and only 351 units were produced between 1967 and 1970.
Of these, three units were sent to South Africa – chassis number MF10-10131 and MF10-10206 in Pegasus White, and MF10 -10207 finished in Thunder Silver.
Along with its striking looks, the car featured a longitudinally-mounted 2.0-litre, 6-cylinder engine that was developed by Toyota and Yamaha.
The motor produced 110kW and 175Nm, and was mounted at the front – with drive sent to the rear wheels.
Toyota highlighted that the 2000GT’s desirability was further enhanced by the fact it appeared in the 1967 James Bond movie “You only live twice”.
Two convertible versions of the 2000GT were specially commissioned for the film, which starred Sean Connery.
Photos of the current restoration process are shown below.
Toyota 2000GT restoration – Photos
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