If you’ve ever wondered whether the legend of the AE86 Hachi-Roku is just 80s nostalgia turned up to eleven, I’ve finally got the answer — because Toyota handed me the keys to their own immaculate 1986 Corolla GT Coupé.

Within minutes of driving it, I had strangers grinning, pedestrians giving thumbs-up, and even a bloke in a burly AMG saluting the old Corolla like it was royalty. Yes… an AMG driver. Saluting. A Corolla.

And that was only the beginning.

This car didn’t just meet the myth — it rewrote it. From the metallic rasp of the 4A-GE, to the chassis that dances like it’s still listening to Duran Duran, to the glorious 80s cabin that made me wish I’d brought my Paula Abdul cassettes… this review became an unexpected emotional journey.

So does the AE86 truly live up to its reputation as a cult icon?
Or is it simply a rose-tinted relic from the days of shoulder pads and synth-pop?

I’ve driven it. Here’s my verdict.

👉 Read/watch the full review now BrownCarGuy.com

Regards
Shahzad | AKA BrownCarGuy