Imagine owning a legendary Toyota AE86, but without the decades-long wait and astronomical price tag. Well, that's exactly what some enterprising individuals have achieved by purchasing replica AE86 bodies from Alibaba and transforming them into real cars. But is it a smooth ride or a bumpy one? Let's dive in.
The Replica Shells:
A year ago, news broke that replica shells for the iconic AE86 generation were available on Chinese marketing platforms. While reproduction pattern parts like fenders and quarter panels have long been sourced from China, the idea of ordering a complete body-in-white for a car as revered as the AE86 Corolla sparked excitement.
BigTime's Mission:
YouTube channel BigTime took on the challenge of turning a reproduction shell into a driveable car, dubbed a "Fake Toyota." However, it wasn't a straightforward process.
Sourcing the Shell:
BigTime acquired the shell from Battle Garage, an AE86 specialist in San Francisco, who had access to the one displayed at SEMA. Interestingly, the shell in the Alibaba ad photos wasn't a reproduction but a Hong Kong car treated to an acid dip. This raises the question: was this the car scanned for the repro shells?
Challenges and Shortcomings:
The shell's quality is decent, but it's not perfect. Many mounting holes don't align correctly, requiring redrilling or drilling. The fuel tank attachment points are missing, and the A-pillar is uneven, complicating window installation. The dash bar doesn't slide in easily, necessitating hammering. While the doors are impressive, window mechanisms require careful attention due to hidden holes.
Welds and Rust:
Welds in the engine bay and frame rails are subpar, demanding careful attention. The shell's history as a 40-year-old car with potential wear and tear must be considered.
Who's It For?
The replica shell is best suited for track cars requiring a straighter body or situations where a VIN isn't necessary. It's not ideal for those seeking a perfect, brand-new car replica. The process involves significant shop hours to make the shell usable, and it might not be worth the investment compared to swapping parts into an old but Toyota-built shell.
The Bottom Line:
While the idea of owning an AE86 is thrilling, the reality of working with a reproduction shell presents challenges. The question remains: is the hassle and cost justified for a car that, in the end, might not be a perfect replica?
