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50 years of Toyota in the U.S.

On October 31, 1957, Toyota officially opened for business in the United States. The American auto business hasn't been the same since.

By Peter Valdes-Dapena, CNNMoney.com staff writer

3 of 14

1966

2000GT

The first Japanese exotic, the sleek and sporty 2000GT was sold for just three years. Only 53 were sold and only 40 are believed to still be around. Its sticker price was about $2,000 more than a Porsche or Corvette.

Today, the 2000GT is the only Toyota that commands serious car collector money. In decent condition, it can sell for six figures.

Powered by a 2.0-liter 148-horsepower engine with a five-speed transmission, it was designed primarily for racing, and Toyota boasts of several world speed records. Carrol Shelby's racing team won a Grand Prix race with the 2000 GT in its third outing in 1968. It finished second to Porsche for the season.

Sean Connery drove a 2000GT in the 1967 James Bond film "You only live twice."

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