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One of the most unfortunate aspects of classic cars is that the number of enthusiasts eager to drive them often exceeds the available vehicles. While reviving production is theoretically possible, it’s a challenging endeavor. However, the iconic Toyota AE86 provides a unique case: its unibody has already been reintroduced. Buyers can currently obtain reproductions, provided they are willing to buy in bulk and are unconcerned about the source.
These reproduction hachiroku bodies are available for purchase on Alibaba, offered by Jiangsu Aodun Automobile Industry Company, which Made-in-China identifies as a supplier for FAW-GM, a partnership between General Motors and FAW, China’s second-largest automotive manufacturer. Their account showcases a variety of stamped body panels across multiple brands, including vented hoods for the Dodge Charger and bodywork for the VW Type 2. They even offer complete bodies for the 40-series Toyota Land Cruiser, though the AE86 body holds particular interest for me.
Images in one of the chassis’ two listings display an AE86 hatchback unibody covered in a grid pattern, suggesting that the company has used 3D scanning technology to replicate it meticulously. If these frames are assembled with the same precision and standards as those by Toyota in the 1980s (a capability suggested by the supplier’s relationships with OEMs), they could rival the quality of the original AE86 bodies. It’s important to note that while the manufacturer is based in China, the perception of “Made in China” has shifted dramatically and is no longer synonymous with poor quality—as acknowledged by Ford CEO Jim Farley. Moreover, even if there are slight irregularities in these frames, they are likely still straighter than the typical AE86 drift car at this stage.
For those considering building one of these AE86 frames but feeling hesitant, reinforcing it with a tube chassis might be a wise approach. This chassis design may be ideal for transforming into track-ready vehicles. While it may be exciting to create a brand-new ’80s Corolla in 2024, acquiring all the necessary parts to complete a full car could turn into a logistical challenge without starting with a donor vehicle. These reproduction bodies may serve as excellent replacements for rusted or damaged ones, assuming the VIN plates can be transferred smoothly.
One potential complication is that Alibaba indicates a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of five shells, even though individual units are listed for $9,500. This could hinder personal projects unless you find four fellow enthusiasts to form a group purchase. This could also lead to starting a small business focused on AE86 restoration—definitely a possibility worth exploring.
Ultimately, if you are inclined to take the chance on a frame that may or may not be suitable for the road, consider this your encouragement to move forward. We’d love to hear how it turns out—let’s hope for positive outcomes with these frames rather than setbacks. Hats off to anyone who successfully integrates one of Toyota’s forthcoming four-cylinder 2JZ-killers into their build.
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