Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185 Rally Canarias 1994 Juha Kankkunen

The Celica that conquered the Canary Islands, now on your slot circuit

The Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185 from Avant Slot (ref. AV52704) faithfully reproduces the car with which Juha Kankkunen started in the 1994 El Corte Inglés Rally in the Canary Islands. A piece that combines historical accuracy with the competition engineering characteristic of Avant Slot, designed to shine in the display case as well as perform at the limit on the track.

Features and highlights

• Resin body industrially manufactured with the level of detail that distinguishes Avant Slot: air intakes, rear wing, mirrors, and graphics of the red and white Marlboro livery reproduced accurately.
• 4×4 drive system via pulleys or pinions, transferring the philosophy of the original ST185 to the track and providing superior traction in chicanes and technical sections.
• High-torque motor calibrated as standard to offer a linear response from the start, without sharp peaks that compromise stability.
• High-performance chassis with optimised geometry for the Classic Rally category, where reliability and balance are as important as top speed.
• Standard guide and braids ready to run; compatibility with universal track (Scalextric, Ninco) and with the main systems on the market.

Scale and level of detail

Manufactured in 1/32 scale, the model faithfully reproduces the wide and muscular silhouette of the ST185, with the Group A homologation rear wing, widened wheel arches, and sponsors arranged as they appeared on the Canary roads in 1994. The Marlboro livery —intense red on white— is one of the most recognisable designs of the Group A era in the WRC and is treated here with high-resolution screen printing.

Track performance

The simulated all-wheel drive via the pulley or pinion system is not merely an aesthetic feature: it translates into a more stable torque distribution under acceleration and greater consistency from lap to lap. The high-torque motor favours corner exit, while the low centre of gravity of the chassis keeps the car glued to the track even in the fastest sections. For the driver seeking consistency in club competition, this Celica is a solid tool; for the collector, a top-tier display piece.

Ideal for…

• Classic rally and Group A collectors who want an iconic reference from the 90s WRC.
• Club racers competing in rally car categories who value reliability over extreme speed.
• Slot enthusiasts wishing to add a model with historical significance and spectacular aesthetics to their collection.

Aspects to consider

As with all cars in the Avant Slot range, it is recommended to check the tension of the braids and the tightness of the guide before the first sessions. The 4×4 traction may require fine-tuning of the differential or pulley tension depending on the type of track and circuit length. Refer to the instructions included in the box for initial setup.

Juha Kankkunen and the 1994 El Corte Inglés Rally in the Canary Islands

Juha Kankkunen arrived in Gran Canaria in the spring of 1994 with four World Rally Championships to his name (1986, 1987, 1991, and 1993) and the Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185 in peak form. Co-driven by Nicky Grist, the Finn took to the island's roads as a showcase. The El Corte Inglés Rally —the commercial name of the Rally Islas Canarias at that time— did not score points for the WRC in that edition, but the presence of a legend like Kankkunen behind the wheel of an official Toyota Castrol team car turned the event into an exceptional occasion for motorsport in the Canary Islands.

The ST185 was then the most advanced rally car of its generation in Group A: permanent all-wheel drive with a Ferguson system, low-inertia turbocharger, double wishbone suspension, and a body stiffness that allowed it to absorb the impacts of the Canary surface without losing steering precision. Kankkunen and Grist dominated the stages with the confidence of those who know every limit of the car, leaving in the memory of local fans a performance that is still remembered as a benchmark of what the golden era of Group A was. This unit from Avant Slot immortalises exactly that moment.

Frequently asked questions

What track systems is this Avant Slot Toyota Celica compatible with?

It features a standard guide compatible with universal track, so it works directly on Scalextric and Ninco tracks. With an adapter guide, it is also compatible with other systems on the market such as Carrera.

What does it mean that it has 4×4 traction in a slot car?

In this model, the traction is transmitted to both the front and rear axles via a pulley or pinion system, replicating the mechanical philosophy of the real ST185. On track, this translates into greater stability under acceleration and a more controlled corner exit.

Is it suitable for club competition or just for collection?

Both. The mechanics are prepared for intensive club use, while the level of detail of the body and the fidelity of the livery also make it a reference collection piece within the Classic Rally category.

Does it need running-in or prior setup?

As with any performance slot car, an initial running-in at medium power is recommended to settle the braids and motor. Also check the tightness of the guide and the tension of the 4×4 pulley system before the first competition session.

Does it come with spare parts or additional accessories?

The model includes the standard elements of the Avant Slot range. For specific spare parts (guides, braids, tyres, pulleys), Avant Slot has its own spare parts catalogue with wide availability.

What scale is this model?

1/32 scale, the reference standard in competitive and collectible slot racing, compatible with the vast majority of circuits and accessories on the market.

The Avant Slot AV52704 Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185 reproduces Juha Kankkunen's iconic 1994 Rally Canarias livery in 1/32 scale. Featuring a 4WD drive system, high-torque motor and detailed Marlboro red-and-white bodywork, this Group A classic is a top choice for slot car collectors and club racers alike. Compatible with universal slot track systems including Scalextric and Ninco. A must-have piece for WRC Group A rally car enthusiasts and Avant Slot collectors worldwide.