They said it was “just a Corolla”… yet this humble Toyota became one of the most iconic driver’s cars on earth. AE86, Corolla Levin/Corolla GT Coupe and the fabled ‘Hachi-Roku!’
Yes, today I’m reviewing the 1986 Toyota 86 “Hachi-Roku”, also known as the Toyota Corolla GT Coupé Twin-Cam 16-valve AE86 – the rear-wheel-drive legend that shaped drifting culture, inspired Initial D, and won the hearts of enthusiasts around the world.
This immaculate example belongs to Toyota UK’s Heritage Fleet, making it an incredibly rare chance to drive what is essentially a time capsule. With its 1.6-litre 4A-GE Twin Cam, 123bhp at 6,600rpm, sub-1000kg weight and beautiful period styling, the AE86 remains a masterclass in mechanical purity and driver involvement.
In this full review, I take you through:
• The history and origins of the AE86
• Why the Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno split exists
• What makes the UK-spec Corolla GT Coupé special
• The modifications fitted to this exact car
• Full walkaround, practicality look, interior tour
• Real-world driving impressions in the rain
• Why the AE86 still matters in 2025
If you’re a fan of the Toyota 86, the GT86, drifting, rear-wheel-drive classics, or just raw 1980s brilliance, you’re going to love this.
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