March issue closing date -> we are closing
Toyota 1000 Special (1971). Collector's item for Harm
A special car from a different era; a time capsule whose value is determined not only by its age, but especially by how well it has stood the test of time. This Japanese car has always been meticulously maintained, never restored, and that adds to its appeal. Its charm is linked to the feeling it evokes of the "seventies," a time when simplicity, solidity, and compact cars set the tone. In 1977, Harm bought the Toyota 1000 Special as his daily driver. He remained in that role until 1990, after which it moved on to the role of second family car; a quiet force in the background.
Reliable
Harm: "I worked in a body shop at the time and simply thought the car looked good. Perhaps a bit basic according to those in the know, but the affordable price and Toyota's renowned reliability were the deciding factors. And that's been proven beyond doubt; we've owned the car for 48 years now. I simply call it a classic, because a classic is something with value; and this little Japanese car certainly is. Although it's only used sporadically, I notice in conversations that it brings back memories. Who would have thought that after almost half a century, the car would still exude the same old-world charm?"
Auto veterans club
The Toyota 1000 Special bears the AVC badge, which represents the "De Fryske Wâlden" association. This is a friendly group of classic and vintage car owners from the Northern Netherlands, whose vehicles are at least 40 years old. The goal is simple yet rewarding: to establish and strengthen connections among enthusiasts and to participate in a handful of tours together each year. It's about pride, sharing stories, and passing on history; please don't be too modest.
Toyota a strong brand
The Toyota 1000 was the compact predecessor of the later Toyota Starlet, a model that attracted a large fan base in the Netherlands. We're now confident enough to consider the Toyota 1000 Special itself—with its indestructible 1.0-liter K engine and lightweight body—an iconic status. A close bond with Toyota is easily established; and you can, of course, also have a close bond with Auto Motor Klassiek. Colorful on your doorstep every month, full of stories, photos and reports about cars like this indestructible Japanese car.
((More photos below)
This is class, it spontaneously puts a smile on your face.
Great little car I had as my commuter in the late 70s. Light blue version. It was going well until some idiot on the Amsterdam Overtoom tram ran a red light on the left and drove behind a tram I was just pulling out of. End of the little Toyota, totaled. Luckily, I wasn't wearing a seatbelt, so I moved into the passenger seat without injury.
As Peter already mentioned, it's rarer than a Lamborghini. For me, it's a car with a significant memory. The neighbor boy knocked on my door on Saturday afternoon with a cry for help. The Toyota had a blown head gasket. He'd managed to quickly get a new one, but the next morning he had to take the car to Seedorf, Germany, where he was stationed. The gasket needed replacing, but my father didn't have time. He gave me the instructions and an encouraging pat on the shoulder when he said, "You can do that too"... gulp... I was 14 years old...
Finally, after about three hours, the job was done. Everything was properly torqued with the torque wrench and the valves properly adjusted. I wasn't exactly a "good guy" when I insisted we warm it up, stop, let it cool completely, and retighten it before starting the drive to Seedorf. It paid off. The bolts came through perfectly! The valves were adjusted again, and I was done. After 1500 km, I did the same thing again, and the car would never break down again. It was my first. A great memory with that little Toyota 1000!
Dear readers, I had a mustard yellow Toyota 1000 with Kent. 4148SE.
Coupe version.
This was my first car.
Not an economical car, but good. It was serviced at Toyota dealer Trost in Utrecht.
It's a pity that dealer Trost no longer exists.
See my publication.
Tel. 0630368689
Rarer, and therefore more exclusive than a Lamborghini 😉