The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a crown jewel of Japanese automotive history to its collection: a 1967 Toyota 2000GT. This award-winning, race-inspired white coupe, revered by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, is now on display as part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection.
Co-developed with Yamaha and styled by Albrecht Goertz, the same designer behind the BMW 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. Designed to challenge icons like the Porsche 911 and Jaguar E-Type, the 2000GT cost more than both yet delivered stunning looks, razor-sharp handling, and up to 200 horsepower in race trim.
"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."
Only 351 Toyota 2000GTs were ever built, including two special roadsters made for the James Bond film "You Only Live Twice." This particular example not only survives but thrives, having won both "Best in Show" and "Japanese Jewels" at the 2022 London Concours, making it one of the most celebrated 2000GTs in existence today. Powered by a high-revving DOHC inline-six and capable of speeds up to 130 mph, the 2000GT also saw racing success under the direction of Carroll Shelby, who campaigned the car in SCCA events, further cementing its performance pedigree.
The 2000GT's significance extends beyond its rarity; it reshaped global perceptions of Japanese engineering and design. Now proudly displayed in Fort Worth, this pristine white 2000GT offers visitors a rare opportunity to see the car that changed everything. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76137, houses over 200 collector vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles, with free parking and admission. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
