Toyota Sports 800 Wins ‘Best of Show’ at Rétromobile 2025
Sixty years after its debut, the Toyota Sports 800 has claimed a prestigious award. At Rétromobile Paris, this remarkable compact sports coupé was named ‘Best of Show’ in the post-war preservation category. The trophy was proudly received by Ronald Kooyman, director of the Louwman Museum, from the event organizers.
Recognized by enthusiasts and experts as Europe’s premier classic car show, Rétromobile took place in early February in Paris. Toyota France invited us to display the Sports 800 alongside the RAV4 EV and the first-generation Toyota Prius, showcasing 60 years of electrification. On the event’s opening day, a panel of expert judges toured the exhibition, and upon discovering the Sports 800, they were immediately captivated. Not only did they admire Toyota’s first-ever sports car, but they were also impressed by its exceptionally well-preserved condition, earning it top marks in the competition.
The Toyota Sports 800 was officially launched in 1965, following a concept presentation at the 1962 Tokyo Motor Show. Its name reflects the engine’s 790 cc displacement—100 cc larger than the Publica, on which it was based. Thanks to dual carburetors, its power increased from 28 to 45 hp. The lightweight two-seater was also one of the first production cars to feature a removable aluminum roof panel, which could be stored in the trunk.
Between 1965 and 1969, a total of 3,131 units were produced, with 1,235 built in 1965 alone. Of these, only 300 left-hand-drive models were ever made, primarily for American military personnel stationed in Okinawa. The exact number of surviving Sports 800s remains unknown, making this award-winning example even more special.
