The ST205 and Rally Development
The ST165 and ST185 were previous GT-Four models that proved highly capable in rallying. Notably, the ST185 secured both the Manufacturers and Drivers’ titles during the 1993 and 1994 WRC seasons. However, changes to the new turbocharger restrictor regulations mandated that cars transition from 38mm to 34mm restrictors, thereby neutralising certain performance advantages.
Engineered to maintain a strong presence in the highly demanding rally environment, the ST205 featured Toyota’s third generation of 3S-GTE engines. Further technical upgrades included an all-aluminium bonnet, an advanced four-channel ABS system, a revised CT20B twin-entry turbocharger, and upgraded suspension, all aimed at enhancing performance. Furthermore, Toyota was the first manufacturer to implement the Anti-Lag System (ALS) within its rally car.
Development also heavily emphasised improving the Celica’s structural rigidity and its aerodynamic profile to boost handling capabilities. The wider body accommodated 18-inch wheels for optimal use on tarmac stages.
The Group A ST205 GT-Four Celica made its competitive debut at the non-championship Rally Australia in 1994. Driving the new machine, Juha Kankkunen finished second, trailing the Subaru piloted by Colin McRae. During the 1995 WRC campaign, the ST205 contended with new rival entries from Subaru and Mitsubishi’s Evo rally car. The ST205 successfully finished third at both the Monte Carlo and Sweden rounds.
The Celica GT-Four encountered a significant obstacle during its career. Following observations by an FIA official in Australia regarding its superior acceleration compared to rivals, an inquiry was launched. This investigation culminated during the Rally Catalunya in Spain, where Kankkunen and Armin Schwartz were involved in an off-road incident. Scrutineers subsequently inspected the team’s spare turbochargers and found that the ST205 had utilised a unit with unauthorised modifications.
The FIA president, Max Mosley, characterised the illegal turbo restrictor as “the most sophisticated device I’ve ever seen in 30 years of motor sports.” Consequently, Toyota was penalised by the stripping of championship points and a twelve-month ban from the World Rally Championship. Despite this suspension, the ST205 continued its participation in rally events. Arnim Schwarz, driving for HF Grifone in Italy, secured the 1996 European Rally Championship, and the ST205 remained active in the 1996 and 1997 WRC seasons until it was superseded by the Corolla model.
Read the full guide: Toyota GT-Four ST205 Buyers Guide
