By now you might’ve noticed that we’re slightly obsessed with everything 86. Who knew the economic Toyota Corolla would become legendary in the sport compact world and remain a popular tuning platform for decades? It’s strong enough for rally racing, nimble for drifting and time attack, and an all-around fun car to drive. We’ve featured a good amount of AE86s throughout the years, and since ’16 marks the 50th anniversary of the Corolla, we decided to look back at 10 of our favorites in no specific order:
Who: Yoshinori Kamata
When: May ’12
Why: Only 400 of these Black Limited editions exist in the world, and they were only available in Japan. Kamata-san of TEC-ARTS turbocharged the “7A-G” motor (essentially a 7A-FE block with a 4AG head), and it is also one of the best-looking AE86’s of all-time!
Who: Steve Wilcock
When: May ’11
Why: Using only a copy of TRD’s rare Sports Modification manual from ’85, Steve built his own N2 Spec Corolla, even with a period-correct TRD racing livery. It’s not all show, either… Powering the little Toyota is an N2/Formula Atlantic spec 4AG. Straight ballin’!
Who: Kiyonori Imai
When: October ’12
Why: Who says you have to be young to enjoy hooning? Kiyonori Imai, owner of Bee*R, started his drifting career at the age of 50. His roots originate in drag and road racing, but he soon found himself building this AE86 to learn how to drift. Underneath the hood is a 4AG-ZE motor, which came with a factory supercharger, but Imai-san replaced the blower with a Garrett GT25 turbo from a R32 Skyline.