Widely recognized for its “smiley” front bumper, the first-generation Toyota Celica remains a global favorite among enthusiasts. Its pony car-inspired styling, marked by a long hood, short deck, and pillarless coupe profile, is reminiscent of the sports car style era.

From base models powered by 2T and 18R engines to JDM GT and GTV variants equipped with twin-cam 2TG and 18RG units, the Celica offered a broad performance spectrum. That versatility fueled its presence across motorsports, from rallying to circuit and drag racing, and continues to inspire builds ranging from faithful restorations to resto-mods stuffing everything from Honda F20 to LS1 V8 engines.

Then some builds push far beyond convention. This particular Celica redefines the platform entirely, a ground-up custom where nearly every component has been reimagined. Its centerpiece is a V12 engine, which has everyone’s jaws drop the moment they lay eyes on the 12 velocity stacks poking out of the hood.

The project comes from Shawn Bassett of Attacking the Clock, who is based in Florida, and originally wanted to use the rare 1LR-GUE V10 from the Lexus LFA. But with only 500 LFAs ever produced, sourcing that engine proved unrealistic, leading to a bold alternative: the 1GZ-FE V-12 from the Toyota Century.

Originally rated at 276 HP, this 5.0-liter V12 has been extensively rebuilt to produce around 700 HP and can rev to 10,000 rpm. Apart from the individual velocity stacks, the engine features custom-machined billet aluminum components, turning it into a work of art. Gear changes are handled by a ZF 8HP gearbox, allowing manual-style clutch control.

The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail extends throughout. The entire body is constructed from carbon fiber, complemented by exposed weave details for contrast, like the bumpers and fender mirrors. The wide-bodied Celica rides on classic BBS E55 wheels with custom center-lock hubs. A custom pushrod rear suspension with Moton shocks adds to the car’s engineering appeal and is visible through the rear shelf tray panel.

Inside, the original dashboard shape remains, but everything else is done in custom tan leather, carbon fiber trim, custom bucket seats, and rally-inspired stopwatches integrated into the center panel.

It’s a radical reinterpretation of a classic Celica, one that completely reimagines what it can be and what it can do. And with 12 cylinders under the hood that push out 700 HP, this is a Toyota Celica that can rival modern supercars with ease.