That Time James Bond Drove a Toyota

Japan's First Supercar

The Toyota 2000GT is one of the most memorable and collectible cars of all time. It was Japan's very first supercar and even starred in the Connery-led Bond film You Only Live Twice. But this now $1.2M Toyota was almost a Nissan...

Photo: Toyota

A Classic That Almost Wasn't

The Toyota 2000GT was initially a Nissan/Yamaha project and went by the name of Yamaha A550X/Nissan 2000GT. Ultimately the venture was canceled in June of '64. But Toyota wanted in on the performance car game and teamed up with Yamaha to resurrect the plan. 

Photo: Toyota

>>Join the conversation about the 2000GT right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

New Levels of Performance

The engine bay featured a 2.0-liter inline-six 3M engine utilizing a cast-iron block, aluminum head, and DOHC setup. It screamed to 7,000 rpm and boasted 150hp and 130 lb-ft of torque while reaching 135 mph. Toyota supplied the 3M from its Crown model and Yamaha perfected the design with the addition of the aluminum head.

Photo: Toyota

>>Join the conversation about the 2000GT right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Unveiling of a King

2000GT designer Satoru Nozaki was greatly influenced by the Jaguar E-Type as he wanted to bring European style to the Land of the Rising Sun. His baby was ultimately unveiled at the 12th annual Tokyo Motor Show in 1965 and took spectators by storm. Just 351 were produced between 1967-1969.

Photo: Toyota

>>Join the conversation about the 2000GT right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Legends Never Die

To this day, it remains the only Japanese car driven by Brittain's most famous spy. Few cars have attained the same level of glory as the 2000GT as evidenced by one example selling for $1.2M at an RM Sotheby's auction. This vehicle truly was worthy of Agent 007 himself.

Photo: Toyota

>>Join the conversation about the 2000GT right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Check out the how-to sections of ClubLexus.com for help keeping your car in great shape.