Considering buying a GT-S

[Camride]

Hey guys, I'm obviously new here. I'm thinking about buying a 00-02 Celica GT-S. I just wanted to get some general info on these cars before I actually start looking at buying one.

First, what kind of gas mileage do you guys get on average? This one is kinda important to me, as I'd like to get something that is fun to drive but still gets around 25-30mpg average city/highway. Also, what kind of power does the 00-02 GT-S make? I won't be doing any major mods to the car, probably just intake and maybe a few other things. From the little I've read here the GT-S is better for bolt-ons and the GT is better for turbo upgrades, so the GT-S is better for me. How good is the 6 speed in these? Is it pretty stout or is it something that will break under a decent amount of abuse? How are the auto's in these cars? I don't want one, but just in case I find a better deal on an auto I'd like to know. Is there anything I should look out for, any common problems?

Thanks for your help guys!

[CELERY GT-S]

first off dont get an 02 it has a 7800 rpm rev limiter which makes it significantly slower then the 00-01s and 03-04s. I have a 00 GT-S 6 speed. Im pretty rough on it and it gets between 22 and 27mpg city and between 29 and 34 hwy depending on the situation. if u stay out of lift u will get very good mileage(about as good as a GT, just on premium fuel). Stay away from the autos at all costs! the nature of the powerband + 4 speed auto in a terrible combo, the only thing that makes the gt-s quick at all is the 6 speed(u have to keep it above 6200rpms to stay in the powerband). 6 speeds generally run low 15s stock (a few people have hit 14.7 and 14.8) auto GT-S's run high 16s..if u get an auto u might as well get a GT.
as for the tranny, if u are rough on it im not sure how well it will hold up..mine has had some grinding issues, since i got the car toyota has replaced 2nd, 3rd, 4th and reverse and 2nd is back to grinding when the car is cold. I think that may have something to do with my trd quickshifter though.
Common problems are lift bolts breaking(causes power loss at high rpms) and bad belt tensioners. Not a problem free car, but pretty reliable overall.

[BHam00GT-S]

^^what he said.
Here's a little more info. If you can find a 6 speed GT-S built before Nov. 2000 (think thats the date), then lift kicks in at 6000. This makes a big difference because it would be a lot easier to land shifts in lift. You can find the manuf. date on the drivers side when you open the door.
Synchros have a tendency of going out every now and again, and like he said, the lift bolts can break. They are simple to replace though

[jonnyess]

the lift bolts can break. They are simple to replace though

UNBROKEN worn lift bolts = simple to replace

BROKEN lift bolts = technical nightmare (generally speaking)

glad to help :wave: