My GT4 Group A Rallye Toyota Celica

"I first saw her spinning around in the Pennant Hills showroom in 1994 and knew I had to have her," Morris says. I "I was actually there shopping around for a MR2, but it only took a look at the Celica to change my mind."

Even the 'gulp factor' of the price tag didn't dampen his enthusiasm.  "It cost $93,000 - the list price at the time was $78,000, but it had been fitted with a few options.

"It was a bit more than I went down to spend. But I couldn't argue with that, because it was about the only one left in Australia... they brought 77 out and each dealer got only one.  So I thought "if you want the car, you've got to pay".

"I left a $50 deposit - that was all I had in my pocket - and came back the next day with the full payment. She was mine!"

Morris says his love of the car hasn't faded a bit since that day.

"It's still beautiful. Our relationship is now almost 17 years old and each day I look at her I still smile," he says.  "Everyone that notices her out on the road turns their heads to have another look - and are lost for words when I tell them how old she is.  Like any fine red, she improves with age."

Morris has resisted any temptation for major modification to the Celica.

"An exhaust system change and different wheels are the only mods," he says.  "Nothing needs to be changed - she is perfect.  She is very forgiving when being driven, always responsive when asked, and very exciting to drive.

" I feel privileged to own her. She just gets better with age.  She's only got 92,000km on the clock - which isn't a lot for a car of that age. I don't want to wear her out".

1994 ST205 Toyota Celica GT4 Group A Rallye.

Engine and outputs: 2.0-litre, 178kw
Transmission: 5-speed manual, all-wheel drive How many built: 2500 world wide (to qualify for world rally entry) Australian allocation: 77 Cost When New: $93,000 Value now: $35,000