Concept Car Of The Day: 1972 Toyota RV-2 - AllCarIndex

Concept Car Of The Day: 1972 Toyota RV-2

Sep 09, 2024

In 1972, Toyota unveiled a revolutionary concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show called the RV-2. This 2-door wagon was ahead of its time with its sleek styling featuring sharply formed edges and large rectangular headlights. The front bumper only covered the corners, allowing the grill to stand out prominently. The roof line terminated behind the large doors on each side, giving it a unique look.

One of the most distinctive features of the RV-2 was its pair of side-hinged clamshell doors above the rear waistline. These doors covered the entire rear section of the car and were sealed by an integrated roll bar. When raised, the doors could support a tent stretched between them, providing a sleeping area for two adults. Additionally, the front seats could fold down flat to accommodate another two adults for sleeping.

The RV-2 was larger than its predecessor, the RV-1, and its engine was uprated to include SU carburettors, allowing it to reach a top speed of 190 km/h. It shared major mechanical parts with either the Mark II or the Crown, depending on the source, but both models had wheels with 5 studs like the RV-2.

Despite its innovative design and positive reception at the Tokyo Motor Show and in the USA market, the RV-2 never made it into production. A fully functional prototype was showcased, and Toyota even printed brochures to gauge potential interest, but ultimately, the RV-2 remained a concept car.

The RV-2's engine, a straight-6 SOHC with a capacity of 2563 cc, packed a punch with 130 hp. Its dimensions, including a length of 4655 mm, width of 1760 mm, and height of 1310 mm, made it a standout in the world of concept cars at the time. Though it may never have hit the streets, the Toyota RV-2 remains a fascinating glimpse into the innovative direction car design was headed in the 1970s.