The Celica and The Bluebird

The cars that really caught my interest were these two - a Toyota Celica 2200 GT (RA24), and a Datsun Bluebird (P312). It is obvious, and I admit it, that I am a sucker for early model cars. It seems like those older cars were done right, maybe because things were simpler back then. These two cars are testaments of the simpler, yet effective and beautiful design cues devoid of electronic evilness.

The sight of this 1976 Toyota Celica 2200 GT was a slice of automotive heaven of yester years. The same decade when cars like the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxers, the Lamborghini Countach, the BMW M1, the Jaguar E-Type, the Fairlady S13 Z, the Kenmeri Skyline, and the first-generation RX-7 were either first introduced or were still in production. The Celica definitely got its design lines from the American muscle cars (Mustang/Camaro) of that time. What a decade that was, with such amazing cars on the road. 

This particular Toyota Celica is in excellent condition. The car has been perfectly restored and appears to be spotless. I probably waited for about 15 minutes around the car, hoping that I could spot the owner. I went back another 3 or 4 times but unfortunately never got the chance to speak with the guy responsible for such an impressive job on the Celica. 

Judging from some signs in and around the car, it was pretty obvious that the owner is Filipino (front tag, Philippine flag, stickers) and/or a resident of Louisiana (rear tag). Filipinos have a good reputation for restoring vintage Toyota cars impeccably, especially in California. And this car definitely exudes that high quality workmanship.

Garnering 2nd place for the Best Old School Celica at the 16th All ToyotaFest is not a walk in the park.

That Celica was a thing to behold, especially at such level of cleanliness. 

Now, let's talk about this Datsun Bluebird (P312). I know little about this blue oldie. But from what I've read, this was Nissan's first serious trial at entering the US sedan market. Sure, it isn't a sporty car, nor is it a groundbreaking one, but it sure looks simple and good. It looks rather ordinary - trying to fit in to the mainstream sedans on the road during the 1960's. 

Car sales for the Bluebird wasn't that impressive in the US, but it was a hit in Europe. Well, the design, in my opinion, looks quite European. Maybe that is the reason why it was considered a flop stateside. 

This side mirror just looks too sexy. Small form factor with maximum impact on style.

This is another properly restored car, but probably not up to the standards of the previous oldie Celica. It could definitely use some minor body work. Overall, however, it is still an impressive build. I wouldn't mind having this as a daily driver. I bet this Bluebird would look nice on the beach, with a surfboard strapped to the roof California-style.

After this post there shouldn't be any doubt of my fondness of old cars. They are the bee's knees.