The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a 1967 Toyota 2000GT to its Ron Sturgeon Collection, marking a significant moment for automotive enthusiasts. This white, award-winning coupe, co-developed with Yamaha and styled by Albrecht Goertz, is renowned for reshaping global perceptions of Japanese engineering and design. Only 351 units were ever built, making it one of the rarest and most celebrated vehicles in automotive history.
Originally pitched to Nissan, who declined, the 2000GT was seized upon by Toyota as an opportunity to challenge European sports cars like the Porsche 911 and Jaguar E-Type. With a hand-built construction, a high-revving DOHC inline-six engine, and up to 200 horsepower in race trim, it delivered stunning looks and razor-sharp handling. Carroll Shelby campaigned the car in SCCA events, further cementing its performance pedigree. The 2000GT also gained pop culture fame when two special roadsters were made for the James Bond film You Only Live Twice.
This particular example has won both “Best in Show” and “Japanese Jewels” at the 2022 London Concours, making it one of the most decorated 2000GTs in existence. "This is the most important Japanese car ever made. Period," said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "It's not just rare—it's a symbol of a moment when the world finally took Toyota seriously as a performance brand."
The addition of the 2000GT underscores the museum's commitment to showcasing vehicles that have shaped automotive history. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, houses over 200 collector vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles. Visitors can see the car alongside other rare exhibits, with free parking and admission. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
The Toyota 2000GT's presence at the museum offers a rare opportunity to witness a car that not only redefined Japanese automotive excellence but also influenced global perceptions of the brand. Its legacy as a trailblazer in performance and design continues to inspire collectors and enthusiasts alike.
