If you came here to read and learn about rare vehicles, then this car shown here car will likely bring some enjoyment. This is the one-of-a-kind 1994 TOM’s (Tachi Oiwa Motor Sport) Angel T01 prototype, a highly obscure project that was first ever shown to the world during the 1994 Tokyo Auto Salon. Built by TOM’S Inc. (株式会社トムス), a performance parts producer and vehicle tuner specializing in Toyota and Lexus models, also operating as an officially supported motorsport team, the Angel T01 project first ever began in the year 1991, starting off of course as just a sketch. From this point forward, chief engineer/designer Martin Ogivie, who formerly worked with Lotus, and the TOM’s Great Britain factory in the United Kingdom brought this dream car to life as a celebration of the company’s 20th anniversary, after having been founded in the year 1974 by former Japanese racing driver Nobuhide Tachi and Toyota dealership engineer, Kiyoshi Oiwa. At first glance, the compact proportions of the Angel T01 might suggest it’s built on a kei car platform, but in reality, it’s a ground-up creation with no borrowed chassis. While it cleverly incorporates select OEM Toyota components—like AE92 Corolla hatch lights to cut costs—the true allure lies in TOM’S bespoke engineering: from its carbon composite tub and dramatic gullwing doors to the fully adjustable double wishbone suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with bias control. A high-revving 1.6L 20-valve 1587cc 4-cylinder heart from an AE101 powers the T01 from behind the seats, paired with its original 5-speed, while a tucked Ford-sourced front radiator keeps it cool. Simply one of the most unique crossovers between England and Japan, all packed into a one-off car that, despite its Lotus-like appearance, certainly cannot be compared to anything else!
How many made? 1
Engine: 1.6L 20-valve 1587cc 4-cylinder
Debut: 1994 Tokyo Auto Salon
Top Speed: n/a
0-60mph: n/a
Photo Credit: @night._.walker
Research: @rarecarsonly