The Toyota 2000GT is one of the most desirable Japanese classics, and its value in the used car market continues to climb. Rocky Auto, known for making gorgeous 2JZ-powered replicas of the classic Toyota sportscar, announced a new version with a 2.0-liter powertrain and the option of an open-top bodystyle. The Rocky Auto 2000GT is fitted with a 2.0-liter straight-six gasoline engine of unknown origin. This is smaller in displacement compared to the 3.0-liter 2JZ of the existing Rocky Auto 3000GT, bringing it closer to the original in terms of specifications. Note that in Japan, the license plate numbers are indicative of the displacement (models with engines under 2,000cc have 5-series plates, while those above 2,000cc have 3-series plates) meaning that the new replica is even more convincing.
Toyota never offered a convertible 2000GT,
despite the popularity of the custom-made example that appeared in the 1967
James Bond Film “You Only Live Twice”. Rocky Auto corrects this injustice by
launching the 2000GT in both coupe and open-top versions. Other than the
additional bodystyle flavor, the design appears to be identical to the 3000GT
replica, remaining faithful to the original. Note that Rocky Auto’s models are
not based on an existing production vehicle, but feature a custom-made chassis
under their handmade bodywork.
The Rocky Auto 2000GT made its debut at
the Nagoya Mobility Car Show in late November, but the official launch will
take place at the Tokyo Auto Salon later this week where both the coupe and the
open-top versions will be exhibited. The company will also announce the
specifications of the 2.0-liter engine and start accepting orders. Pricing has
yet to be disclosed, but the previous replica started from around $200k making it
a bargain compared to a genuine example of the Toyota 2000GT.
