Toyota’s Celica sports car is poised to achieve its four millionth sale this year, as it also celebrates its thirtieth anniversary.

The longest continuously selling sports model in the sports segment and one of the three highest volume selling sports cars in the world, more than 110,000 Celicas have been sold in Australia. The model is now in its seventh generation.

Featuring a wind-cheating exterior styled by Toyota’s Calty studio in California, the current model has a state-of-the-art engine with intelligent variable valve timing and intelligent variable valve lift, and the choice of six-speed manual or Formula One-type E-shift four-speed automatic transmission.

The 1.8-litre twin-cam 16-valve engine delivers 140kW of power at 7600rpm.

Toyota offers two Celica model grades – SX and ZR – both with the 140kW engine and the choice of manual or E-shift automatic transmission.

All models have dual airbag SRS with force-limiting front seatbelt pretensioners, CD player with six speakers, alloy wheels with V-rated tyres, cruise control, wireless door locks and power windows.

Side airbags and ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution are standard equipment on ZR and optionally available on SX.

Celica was first produced in 1971, and the fourth-generation ST162 model - the first front-drive model – is today considered a collector’s item.

Enjoying a strong motor sport heritage over the last 30 years, Celica made Toyota the first Japanese company to win the Australian Manufacturers’ motor racing championship (in 1981), and claimed three Manufacturers’ Championships in the world rally title in 1993, 1994 and 1998.