Is the Corolla the 86?
4 Answers
AE86 is a model from the compact car series of the Toyota Corolla. AE86 is not a name but merely a chassis code. The AE86 refers to the fifth-generation Corolla first produced in 1983. Previous models included the TE27, TE51, TE55, TE61, TE65, and TE71, followed by the AE86 chassis. This chassis was not only used in the Corolla but also in the Trueno, hence the distinction between fixed-headlight and retractable-headlight AE86 variants. The AE86 marked the final FR (front-engine, rear-wheel-drive) model in the Toyota Corolla lineup, as the current Toyota 86 shares nothing with the AE86 beyond the '86' designation.
The Corolla is definitely not the 86. I've been driving a Corolla for several years—it's your standard family commuter car, fuel-efficient, spacious, and highly reliable, perfect for daily commutes or hauling the family around. The 86 is a whole different story—a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with a low stance and thrilling handling, delivering drift-ready fun. Speaking of the 86, we can't forget the classic AE86, which was the sporty offshoot of the old Corolla, but the modern 86 is a standalone model co-developed by Toyota and Subaru (as the BRZ), targeting driving enthusiasts. Corolla drivers prioritize practicality, while 86 owners chase performance thrills. If you test-drive both, you'll instantly feel the difference—one is as dependable and hassle-free as a household rice cooker, the other as fiery and exciting as an outdoor grill. Don’t get them mixed up—Toyota’s lineup has something for everyone.
Having spent a lot of time in the modified car scene, I have to say the Corolla and the 86 are worlds apart. The Corolla is front-wheel drive with a softer chassis, ideal for city commuting. If you modify the suspension or add a turbo, it can be a bit fun—just look at the GR Corolla's sport version to see its potential. The 86, on the other hand, is a rear-wheel-drive sports car straight from the factory, the hottest in the modding community with tons of drift parts available. The 86's name pays homage to the AE86, the performance version of the Corolla in the '80s, but the modern 86 was independently developed and doesn't share a platform with the Corolla. Car enthusiast advice: if you prefer a low-key project, start with a base Corolla and mod it. If you want to dive straight into the excitement, go for the 86. Once you've driven both, you'll realize they're not in the same league.
When I first started driving, I also mistook the Corolla for the 86, but later I got it straight. The Corolla is Toyota's best-selling family sedan, known for its low fuel consumption and ease of driving, making it the top choice for housewives or office workers. The 86 is a sporty little coupe, with a stylish design and excellent handling, especially popular among young people. They are completely different; Toyota's official positioning separates them. I recommend visiting a dealership to see the actual cars. The Corolla's interior is practical and simple, while the 86's interior has a strong sporty feel. Take a test drive, and you'll immediately feel that driving a Corolla is about easy commuting, while the 86 is about thrilling speed. Don't worry about making the wrong choice; both are reliable Toyota models.
