Emblems and Exterior Details
Author: Michael Yount
I’ve always enjoyed little touches that ‘make the car mine’ – but look like something the factory might have done. Big kudos to Dave Barton out in TX – he’s my go to for helping me make custom emblems using adhesive vinyl overlays.
This TE21 came originally with a 2TC hemi 1.6L engine. It had little “1600” emblems in the grill and on the deck lid. When Mr. Diaz built the car, the original 1600 motor was replaced with a 3TC — basically an 1800 cc version of the same engine — a 7mm longer stroke in a different block. I wanted the emblems to reflect the motor in the car. A nice little touch – especially because this body style never came with the 3TC/1800cc motor. The colors match the colors we used with the vintage Toyota logos on the wheel center caps.
The Corolla’s of this vintage had a very specific emblem in the center of the grille. It has a stylized “C” with a crown of blossoms or stars. Here’s a picture off of an ebay ad (asking $103!!!) for an original one.
Mine was in a little worse shape than the one above. So, bring on the red Testor’s lacquer paint and a toothpick.
Nice touch!!
Thanks Jay – I love doing little things like this that most folks don’t even notice.