Meet The Lexus V12-Powered Toyota Celica With A Clutch Pedal And 10K RPM Redline

Now here’s a build that’s as wild as it is wonderful, and it all started with a dream of fitting a Lexus LFA V10 into a humble Toyota Celica.

Florida-based Attacking The Clock Racing (ATC) first unveiled this jaw-dropping Celica at SEMA 2024, and it’s still grabbing attention for good reason. The mastermind behind it, Shawn Bassett, had initially planned to drop in the LFA’s iconic V10. However, since sourcing one turned out to be nearly impossible, he pivoted to a different kind of powerhouse: a V12 from a Toyota Century limo.

That engine didn’t stay stock for long. It was built up to deliver a massive 700 hp and rev all the way to 10,000 rpm. Sitting on top are twelve beautiful velocity stacks with perfectly machined bells that peek through the hood. To manage all that power, the engine is paired with a modern ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. However, there’s a very special twist.

Unlike the ZF autos found in cars like the Supra or BMW M2, this one has a clutch pedal. Bassett figured out how to manually control the ZF’s internal clutch packs using a traditional third pedal. That means you can blip the throttle while stationary, clutch-kick into oversteer, or just drive it like a normal automatic when you want to take it easy.

The attention to detail on this Celica is seriously next level. There’s exposed and color-matched carbon fiber scattered throughout, a set of vintage BBS E55 wheels mounted to custom center-lock hubs, and a pushrod rear suspension you can actually see through the parcel shelf.

The Celica is finished in British Racing Green with a tan leather interior. Meanwhile, custom Speedhut gauges and carbon Tillett bucket seats round it out. Honestly, this build could have easily gone the full track-focused route.