In the golden era of Japanese motoring, Toyota was quietly building more than just dependable sedans and family cars—they were crafting hidden gems. Ron’s 1982 Toyota Corona Coupe, a rare RT141 model, is one such example. And this particular car? It might be one of the last of its kind.

“This model only came out for about nine months,” Ron explains. “It was the last to be fitted with the legendary 18R-G engine before it was phased out due to tightening emissions regulations.” That detail alone makes this Corona a collector's dream. The 18R-G, a twin-cam inline-four co-developed with Yamaha, had powered everything from Celicas to rally cars in the '70s and early '80s—but by 1982, it was on its way out, and the RT141 marked the final chapter.

Ron acquired his car in May 2024 after spotting it on Yahoo Auctions Japan. “I had been eyeing it for months,” he recalls. “But I was hesitant. I’d recently bought a left-hand-drive RA29 Celica from the States and, well, the dealer wasn’t exactly honest about the condition.” Still, something about the Corona Coupe kept calling him back. Eventually, he pulled the trigger—and hasn’t looked back since.

Unlike many older imports, this one didn’t arrive as a tired relic. It came equipped with some serious upgrades: the iconic 18R-G has been stroked to 2.2 litres, fitted with performance internals, and paired with a suite of supporting mods that make this car far more than a vintage cruiser. With coilovers, independent rear suspension, a limited-slip diff, and a period-correct body kit, the car feels tight, responsive, and—most importantly—fun.

“It’s a great car,” Ron says simply. “It’s just fun to drive.” And that’s exactly what this coupe represents: a fusion of heritage and performance that punches well above its weight.

The RT141 might not carry the same fame as the AE86 or Celica GT, but for those who know, it’s a true connoisseur’s car—one that balances rarity, motorsport DNA, and old-school charm in a uniquely understated package.