TOYOTA

TOYOTA

SPORT 800

VIN : UP1512430

UP1512430

The 1969 Toyota Sport 800: An Unsung Legend of Japanese Automotive Innovation

In the annals of automotive history, certain cars emerge as trailblazers, embodying innovation and leaving an indelible mark. The 1969 Toyota Sport 800 stands as one such gem, a lesser-known treasure that encapsulates the pioneering spirit of Japan’s automotive industry at the time.

A Concentrated Powerhouse

The Toyota Sport 800, also known as the Toyota Publica Sports, was a compact sports car produced between 1965 and 1969. Despite its modest size, it boasted remarkable performance thanks to its air-cooled, two-cylinder engine with a displacement of just 790 cc. This diminutive beast delivered impressive power for its class, showcasing the engineering prowess of Japan at the time.

Revolutionary Design

The futuristic design of the Toyota Sport 800 made it a coveted sight on the road. With its wraparound windshield and distinctive headlights, it stood out, drawing admiring glances wherever it went. Its lightweight fiberglass body not only enhanced its agility but also contributed to its fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

A Legend on the Track

While not originally intended for competition, the Toyota Sport 800 quickly proved its mettle on Japanese circuits. Competing in various endurance and hill climb races, it demonstrated its capabilities and gained a reputation for performance and reliability. Its presence on the track solidified its status as a true sports car.

A Lasting Legacy

Though production of the Toyota Sport 800 was limited, its legacy endures. Well-preserved examples of this car have become sought-after collector’s items, testifying to its significance in Japanese automotive history. For many enthusiasts, the Sport 800 represents a symbol of Toyota’s early ingenuity and innovation in the realm of sports cars.

Conclusion

The 1969 Toyota Sport 800 epitomizes the spirit of innovation and performance that characterized Japan’s automotive industry at the time. Despite its small stature, it has left an indelible mark on automotive history, reminding us all not to underestimate the power of a compact car. Today, it remains a lesser-known yet revered legend, a testament to the brilliance of Japanese automotive engineering.


SPECIFICATIONS

NUMBER PRODUCED

3,100 units

DATE OF DELIVERY

1969

CHASSIS TYPE

Steel monocoque chassis

LENGTH

3.3 meters (130 inches)

WIDTH

1.4 meters (55 inches)

HEIGHT

1.2 meters (47 inches)

WEIGHT

600 kg (1,320 pounds)

ENGINE

790 cc air-cooled, two-cylinder engine

POWER

38 horsepower @ 5,400 RPM

TORQUE

52 Nm @ 3,800 RPM

0-60 MPH

20 seconds

TOP SPEED

150 km/h (93 mph)


GALLERY


Privacy Preference Center