It is more than 40 years since the Tarago appeared in Australia.
That puts it well and truly into the classic/collectible bracket.
It was a name derived from an Australian Aboriginal word for “my country” or “my house”.
Released in 1983, it was based on the Japanese TownAce/MasterAce Surf van, which itself had its foundation in an aging delivery van.
A second generation followed in 1990, with third and fourth gen versions following in 2000 and 2006.
The switch from rear-wheel-drive to front-wheel-drive, with the release of third generation Tarago in 2000, allowed for design improvements in space, accessibility and aerodynamics.
The fourth was the last version sold here before the Tarago was replaced by Granvia which interestly was recently canned.
To quickly create the original people mover, Toyota bolted velour covered seats to a carpeted floor and threw in some of the usual accessories.
But the design compromises and the delivery van heritage were very evident.
Driver and front seat passenger sat above the front wheels making for a bumpy ride.
The high-mounted engine intruded into the front cabin area, making the Tarago very noisy.
The driving position was most bus-like, but unlike competitors the steering wheel was fixed at a car-like angle.
Despite the drawbacks owners loved it.
It was the reliable people mover for big families that offered some luxury.
My question though is the Tarago a collectible automobile?
There’s at least one Facebook page for owners and the various Toyota clubs’ discussion forums have threads devoted to the Tarago.
So, it has a following.
However, I have never seen one at classic cars show or a coffee and cars.
For many mid-40s Australians, the Tarago is the first family car they can remember.
And that’s how collectability often begins.
I suspect we will see restored Taragos in the next few years.
David Burrell is the editor of retroautos
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