Vying for the top spot of the world’s largest carmakers, Toyota sold an incredible 10.5 million cars in 2021. Among those, are hatches, hybrids, and a handy number of sports cars.

Taking a look back at where Toyota comes from. Founded in 1937 to where it stands today, sports cars are a relatively late addition to the company. Unveiled in 1965 and sold through a small chain of stores, the Sports 800 was the first tentative step into the world of speed. Not the kind of speed machines we have come to expect from Toyota, but more of a Kei Car. Yet, from this little roadster onwards Toyota has rolled out some of the best sports cars. Icons, including the Supra in its various models, along with the MR2 have wowed gearheads the world over.

A familiar sight on public roads? But how many gearheads know what lies behind the brand’s model line-up? Snippets of information that most gearheads overlook. From innovative firsts to groundbreaking racing and sports car tech, there is more to Toyota than you realize.

10/10 Toyota 2000GT

Japan’s first, and best attempt at taking the US sports market, the 2000 GT was an instant success. It didn’t matter production stopped at 351 cars. The arrival of Toyota’s supercar was an omen of things to come. Under the hood, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated in-line six put down 148 hp.

But what most gearheads do not realize is Toyota worked on the 2000 GT project alongside Yamaha. In…