Toyota’s history in motorsports extends far beyond its recent Le Mans endeavors. Journey back in time, past the complex technology of modern vehicles, and you’ll discover a rich lineage of simple yet exhilarating Toyota Sports Cars. These iconic Japanese coupes, like the GT-S and MR2 Turbo, captivated enthusiasts with their engaging driving dynamics and helped solidify Toyota’s reputation for performance. While not necessarily the fastest in a straight line, these cars offered an addictive cornering experience that more than compensated.
Two classic Toyota sports cars, a red AE86 and a red MR2, parked side by side.
The AE86: A Legend on the Streets and Track
Mention “AE86” to any car enthusiast, and images of drifting, touge battles, and Initial D’s tofu delivery car instantly come to mind. This lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe, also known as the hachi-roku, has cemented its place in automotive history and popular culture. The AE86’s popularity, however, has been a double-edged sword. While it garnered a dedicated following, it also led to many poorly modified and neglected examples.
A close-up of the front of a red AE86, highlighting its pop-up headlights and iconic design.
Fortunately, there are still pristine examples that showcase the AE86’s true potential. One such example is a meticulously restored 1985 AE86 GT-S, owned by Toyota enthusiasts Duane Tomono and Janet Fujimoto. This car is a testament to their dedication and passion, featuring a stock 4A-GE engine, original interior, and period-correct SSR Longchamp XR-4 wheels. Every detail, down to the trim screws, has been carefully considered and restored using genuine Toyota parts.
The engine bay of a red AE86, showcasing its meticulously maintained 4A-GE engine.
The MR2 Turbo: Mid-Engine Magic
Alongside the AE86 sits another iconic Toyota sports car: a 1993 MR2 Turbo. Often unfairly dismissed as a “poor man’s Ferrari 355,” the MR2 Turbo offers a unique and engaging driving experience in its own right. Its mid-engine layout, lightweight construction, and turbocharged powerplant deliver exhilarating performance and handling.
A red MR2 Turbo with its T-tops removed, parked in a scenic location.
Duane and Janet’s MR2 Turbo has undergone a similar restoration process as their AE86. It features a rebuilt 3S-GTE engine with all Toyota parts, a refreshed limited-slip differential, and new stock bushings. While maintaining its original character, subtle upgrades like Work Equip wheels, Tein Super Street coilovers, and a Berk exhaust enhance its performance and aesthetics.
The rear of a red MR2 Turbo, showcasing its sleek design and aftermarket Work Equip wheels.
A Shared Passion for Preservation
These two distinct Toyota sports cars, separated by a decade, represent a shared passion for preserving automotive history. Duane and Janet’s dedication to originality and meticulous attention to detail showcase the enduring appeal of these classic machines. Their commitment to using genuine Toyota parts ensures that these cars remain true to their original form, offering a pure and authentic driving experience. These meticulously maintained examples demonstrate that true automotive enthusiasm lies not just in owning a sports car, but in understanding and appreciating its heritage.
