01-10-2009 03:40 PM

Chances are, when you think of Toyota Corona, one of these pops into your head. It’s the first model Toyota designed specifically to suit US tastes and what really got the company moving in the US market. Or you might recall the Toyota Tiara, the USDM name for the Corona of the previous generation.

But here’s one that people have rarely ever seen, even those in Japan - a 1958 Toyopet Corona - and it’s for sale at Yahoo Japan Auctions. It has about 50,000 miles on it and the seller claims the littlest spot of rust. Granted, it’s not the prettiest thing, but it’s one hell of a rarity. As Indiana Jones would say, “It belongs in a museum!” And look at the pic below the jump; it actually runs!

The going price is about $13,800 with no bids.

Thanks to toyotageek for the tip!

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I had the chance to buy one of those earlier this year for $800. Guy didn't speak english well, and I never got to meet him in person. He said it ran, interior was good, etc...

I would have loved to try driving it home at near its 55mph top speed.

Edited January 11, 200916 yr by blue 72