The 1967 Toyota 2000GT, a car that redefined Japan's place in the automotive world, has joined the Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. This award-winning, race-inspired white coupe is widely regarded as the most important Japanese car ever built, and its arrival at the museum marks a significant moment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Co-developed with Yamaha and styled by Albrecht Goertz, the designer behind BMW's 507, the 2000GT was originally pitched to Nissan, who declined. Toyota seized the opportunity, producing a hand-built masterpiece with the soul of a Porsche and the elegance of a Jaguar XKE. With only 351 units ever built, including two special roadsters made for James Bond's You Only Live Twice, the 2000GT is exceptionally rare. This particular example has won both "Best in Show" and "Japanese Jewels" at the 2022 London Concours, making it one of the most celebrated 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 car's racing pedigree was further cemented under the direction of Carroll Shelby, who campaigned the 2000GT in SCCA events.
Powered by a high-revving DOHC inline-six engine capable of speeds up to 130 mph, the 2000GT was produced to challenge icons like the Porsche 911 and Jaguar E-Type. It cost more than both competitors but delivered stunning looks, razor-sharp handling, and up to 200 horsepower in race trim. The car's display at the museum offers visitors a rare opportunity to see the vehicle that reshaped global perceptions of Japanese engineering and design.
The Toyota 2000GT joins over 200 collector vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137. The museum, which offers free parking and admission, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
