Revival of a Cult Engine
The popularity of classic cars continues to grow, and Toyota has decided to support this trend by expanding its GR Heritage Parts catalog. Among the new additions are recreated and updated engine components for the legendary AE86 series.
Parts for the 4A-GE
The new cylinder head and cylinder block assemblies are designed for the 1.6-liter 16-valve DOHC 4A-GE engine installed in the Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno. These cars, produced from 1983 to 1987, became true cult models, known for their performance and impact on car culture.
According to Toyota, the recreated parts retain the basic design and characteristics of the originals but have been “modernized using contemporary modeling technologies, production methods, and materials.”
Cylinder Head Updates
The cylinder head has received additional machining, reducing the area of untreated cast surfaces, a new coating for the intake ports, and camshaft cover pins. Furthermore, some surfaces of the intake and exhaust valves have been made thicker.
Cylinder Block Improvements
The cylinder block is now manufactured using a new honing process, which increases production precision. The use of higher-rigidity cast iron adds extra strength, and the modification of the crankshaft cap structure is based on computer modeling.
Compatibility with Other Models
In addition to the rear-wheel-drive AE86 series models, the cylinder block assembly is also suitable for front-wheel-drive cars like the Corolla FX-16, thanks to additional mounts and ribs that allow for transverse engine installation.
Presentation at the Event
Toyota will present an AE86 with the recreated parts at the “Initial D 30th Anniversary 2days” event, which will take place on September 13th and 14th at Fuji Speedway in Japan. Visitors will be able to order the new components on-site.
Availability and Prices
The new engine parts will go on sale in May 2026, and their price will be announced later. Other components from the GR Heritage Parts catalog for the AE86 Trueno and Levin are already available on the official website.
The GR Heritage Parts collection currently includes over 200 components for eight different models, among which are various generations of the Land Cruiser (J40, J60, J70, J80), the rare 2000GT, the AE86 series, as well as the A70 and A80 generations of the Supra.
This move by Toyota demonstrates how automakers can combine tradition with innovation, ensuring the availability of parts for historical models. Such initiatives not only support the life of classic cars but also contribute to the preservation of automotive cultural heritage for future generations.