The Toyota AE86 needs no introduction, we already know that. One of those cars that went from being a common car to becoming practically a legend. Why? Because of the manga and anime Initial D, they carried it high. Now it is back in the headlines because Toyota has decided to manufacture original parts for its iconic 1.6-liter 4A-GE engine. Yes, the Corolla Levin and the Sprinter Trueno will have new original parts, and fans of the brand had been waiting for something like this for years… And finally it happened!
The return of the 4A-GE
The 4A-GE is a cult engine, one of those that excite. 16 valves, reliability and that very characteristic sound… It has its place on the podium of history, that is why Toyota now wants to bring it back. But it is not just any comeback, it is an even better version. The durability and precision of the 80s return, but with modern manufacturing techniques, simply exciting.
And watch the detail because these changes come after decades of requests from the enthusiasts! They reinforced the walls of the intake and exhaust ports and refined the machining in the combustion chambers… All designed so that performance is more consistent between different models of the brand.
Caring for the heritage
But this initiative is part of the GR Heritage Parts program, with which Toyota has already brought back parts of its most iconic models such as the Supra MK3 and MK4, the classic Land Cruiser or even the exclusive 2000GT.
But that the AE86 receives this special treatment surprises no one, few cars carry the cultural weight that this Corolla does!
There are already more than 200 spare parts available in the program catalog, and now those of the Trueno and the Levin are added, a true gift fallen from the sky!
Looking to the future
Even we are talking about going back to the past, everything returns with the technology of today! The engine block is now manufactured with a level of precision that in the 80s was practically impossible. The cast iron is more rigid, the crankshaft has been optimized with digital simulations, and reinforcements have been added that allow it to be mounted in transverse layout.
That means its potential is no longer limited only to the classic system! And it opens new possibilities for those who want to experiment or be a little more daring!
A nod to Initial D
For those of you who are fans of the brand, note this because the official launch will coincide with the 30th anniversary of Initial D at Fuji Speedway! A lot of symbolism because it was precisely that work that made the AE86 a world icon! Takumi Fujiwara’s mountain descents at the wheel of his Trueno marked an entire generation of fans…
Limited access outside Japan
The bad news is that getting these parts outside Japan will not be easy at all. International distribution will depend on official channels and, with the current shipping problems, prices for collectors in other countries will probably skyrocket…
A symbol
A unique and pioneering decision. Toyota, as always, declaring its intentions in the market in an industry that is increasingly focused on electrification. Not for now, there is still room for the heritage!
Japanese culture, passion for driving… And the freedom that can be seen on four wheels! This initiative guarantees Toyota that history does not stay only in the past, but remains alive, roaring on the roads!