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Is Toyota 86 same as AE86?

No, the Toyota 86 and the Toyota AE86 are not the same car. The Toyota 86 is a modern sports car produced by Toyota, while the AE86 was a rear-wheel-drive sports car produced by Toyota in the 1980s.


Differences Between the Toyota 86 and AE86


The Toyota 86 and AE86 are two distinct models with different design, performance, and production timelines:



  • Design: The Toyota 86 is a modern, sleek sports car with a low, wide stance, while the AE86 had a more boxy, compact design typical of 1980s Japanese cars.

  • Powertrain: The Toyota 86 is powered by a 2.0-liter boxer engine, while the AE86 had a 1.6-liter inline-four engine.

  • Drivetrain: The Toyota 86 is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, while the AE86 was exclusively rear-wheel-drive with a five-speed manual transmission.

  • Production Dates: The Toyota 86 was first introduced in 2012, while the AE86 was produced from 1983 to 1987.


Despite their differences, the Toyota 86 has been praised for its handling and driving dynamics, similar to the legendary AE86, which was known for its nimble, balanced performance.


The Legacy of the Toyota AE86


The Toyota AE86, also known as the "Hachi-Roku" (meaning "eight-six" in Japanese), gained a cult following due to its starring role in the popular anime and manga series "Initial D." The AE86's lightweight, rear-wheel-drive configuration and responsive handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts, and it has since become an iconic car in automotive culture.


While the Toyota 86 is not a direct successor to the AE86, it has been designed to capture the spirit of the original, offering a similar driving experience for a new generation of sports car enthusiasts.

How expensive is an AE86?


A Toyota AE86 costs about the same as a brand new #Toyota GR86. For $30k, which one is REALLY worth it? I really wish Toyota and the aftermarket would embrace '80s and '90s Toyotas Nissans and Mazdas and really start making some reproduction parts these cars are amazing.



What is the other name for the Toyota AE86?


In Japan, the AE86 was sold as the Toyota Sprinter Trueno and as the Toyota Corolla Levin, both of which were available in two-door coupe and three-door hatchback body styles. Toyota clearly thought the names should represent the AE86's personality, which drivers would come to love.



Why are AE86 so rare?


Obviously these cars are not being made any more and as such, when one gets binned into a tree or totalled at a race track, it doesn't get replenished. There isn't a factory churning out fresh models and the AE86 GT represents an incredibly brief moment in time as far as production is concerned.



What is the AE86 called in America?


In North America, these cars were sold as the Corolla GT-S, and they had a small but enthusiastic following. In Japan, they were known by their chassis code—AE86 or hachiroku, Japanese for eight-six—and they were rock stars.



What is the difference between Trueno and GR86?


GR86 Trueno Edition
It includes the Performance Package but is otherwise solely a cosmetic upgrade, with a black hood wrap, side stripes and spoiler. While the Trueno also rides on black 18-inch wheels, they're metallic black here instead of the matte finish on the other trim levels.



Is the GR86 based off the AE86?


Its design elements on the exterior and interior are a modern interpretation of the 1980's model. As for performance, the GR86 is recognized by many enthusiasts as Toyota's spiritual successor to the AE86.



What is Toyota 86 also known as?


The Toyota 86 is the result when two great car manufacturers collaborate. Toyota and Subaru resulted in a sports car that is unique in it's niche. It is also known as GT86 in some markets. Very identical to a Subaru BRZ but it has no turbocharge, very few tech chassis and small tires.



What did the GR86 used to be called?


The GR86 replaced the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S; the GR86 was produced in collaboration with Subaru. The GR86 is crafted for an exciting driving experience, featuring responsive handling and nimble performance. Its 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder Boxer engine can produce 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.



Why are AE86s so expensive?


Obviously these cars are not being made any more and as such, when one gets binned into a tree or totalled at a race track, it doesn't get replenished. There isn't a factory churning out fresh models and the AE86 GT represents an incredibly brief moment in time as far as production is concerned.



Is the Toyota 86 the same as the AE86?


The AE86 would go on to inspire the Toyota 86 (2012–present), a 2+2 sports car jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, manufactured by Subaru—and marketed also as the Toyota GT86, Toyota GR86, Toyota FT86, Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.