1989 Toyota MasterAce Surf

Another eclectic little spaceship/van straight from Japan. Looks like it should be hovering on a cushion of air. All the streamlining and sunroofs in the world can't hide it's utilitarian roots though.

Still -- gotta like a vehicle where most of the roof is plexiglass.

1981 Toyota Vanguard Camper Conversion

So many nice features -- the hubcaps transplanted from an Oldsmobile, the rust that matches the 70s brown stripes, the overhang which contributes to the slowly collapsing rear suspension. And the retro space-age shape; a collision between a fibreglass sci-fi space shuttle and a pickup. The heart shaped coat hanger antenna is a nice touch too.

But it is still in use, no doubt providing many a pleasant mile to a comfortable night in a campground. Large and small at the same time.

1990 Toyota HiAce Super Custom

JDM vans are somewhat common in Vancouver, however I've only seen few of these Toyotas.

Love the sloping, aerodynamic shape of the front door windows, and the interesting shut lines. Plus the extended step in front of the front wheel, and all those seemingly random sunroofs.

1987 Toyota MR2

1987 Toyota Celica GT

Once in a while a manufacturer hits a peak in their design and engineering. This is what I think happened with Toyota and the Celica. Here was a not-too-expensive, reliable, attractive, sporty car that sold well. Then the market changed, or management decided they wanted to go after the high end, or ... something. Regardless, this car is an example of the late peak period of the Celica -- a great smooth shape that still managed to be a good car as well.

1986 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

1991 (?) Toyota Sera