Eurobeat Intensifies!

Launched in Japan in 1983, the Toyota Corolla GT Coupe needs no introduction. Oft-referred to as "AE86" in reference to its chassis code; it's a drifting legend and a keen driver's delight. But there's one AE86 that's more famous than any other; the white-over-black model that appeared in classic Manga series "Initial D" in 1995, and in the live-action remake of 2005.

Initial D was set in the mountainous Gunma Prefecture of central Japan and told the story of Takumi Fujiwara, a student working at a gas station during the summer holidays. Every morning, Fujiwara delivers tofu hops in his dad's Corolla to locals, but at night, something quite magical happens. When the sun goes down, the AE86 becomes the ultimate racing machine, and Fujiwara drifts the car on the spectacular mountain roads nearby - driving flat-out as he goes.

A solid base! It had throttle bodies and a host of other parts that we could work with. Bid was placed and boom, successful.

Seats, strut brace, steering wheel all had to be changed the moment she arrived in the UK. Just this week our Ice Blaster came and gave the engine bay a once over, she now looks 100x cleaner and we have some plans for some restoration over the winter of 2023/2024. Watch this space.

So is the Trueno experience all its cracked up to be? I can only comment based on this modified example. It has a soul, a unique character unlike any other car I've ever driven. Every mile that passes she tells you a story.. She has a unique smell to her, the moment you get in and fire her up you are excited for what the next 30 minutes or so are going to be bring.. and for that Toyota, I am forever grateful..