Long before the Lexus LFA and Toyota 86, there was the Toyota 2000GT, a limited production grand tourer built from 1967 until 1970. Just 351 examples were made, but it's gone down in automotive history as the car that brought attention to Japan's design capabilities. Prior to the 2000GT, Japanese automakers (Toyota included) were known for designing and building bland-looking but practical cars known for fuel efficiency and reliability. But Toyota wanted to break that mold, and the front-engined, rear-wheel-drive, fastback coupe project was initiated.

The 2000GT literally came out of nowhere and suddenly Toyota found itself the center of newfound attention. Toyota even fast-tracked two specially-built 2000GT convertibles for the 1967 James Bond movie "You Only Live Twice". Unfortunately, the convertible never made production, but all surviving coupes are now worth millions.

But what would that sleek fastback look like if it were designed today? Would it still be considered a revolutionary design for Toyota? That question is now being answered thanks to YouTuber TheSketchMonkey.

First off, the car's overall proportions are left unchanged. Why mess with perfection? But things like the whitewall tires, exposed chrome door handles, and the chrome A-pillar can all be changed. Another crucial modernizing element is to lower the car, although this isn't as easy as it might sound. The unique front headlights also don't need to be eliminated completely, just reimagined with a modern touch. Instead of large side mirrors typically used today, old school round mirrors are retained, though they're now black instead of chrome. New wheels are a must-have and the updated 15-inch wheel design perfectly suits the 2000GT's character. Making them wider improves the car's overall stance, too.

Ditching the chrome for black, lowering the stance, and retaining the same basic proportions are all that's needed to be done here, which is quite impressive considering the original design dates back over 50 years. Neither Toyota nor Lexus has fully adopted retro styling lately and we don't see that happening in the future.

However, with a next-generation 86 on the way, it's certainly possible for Toyota designers to incorporate some 2000GT design tribute here and there.