Ron Ng is clearly someone who has his life in order. It doesn’t matter to me whether he has a secure job, a healthy savings account, or a commitment to recycling; what stands out is that Ron has a matching pair of an AE86 and a new Toyota 86, separated by three decades. His priorities are evident.
In collaboration with Toyota, the latest video from Petrolicious showcases Ron Ng’s story and his connection to the Hachi Roku. For many young automotive fans who grew up watching Initial D and listening to Eurobeat mixes, the AE86 symbolizes the beginning of JDM fascination. Interestingly, Ron makes no reference to drifting or the anime in the video, although his driving scenes through the picturesque hills of Southern California resemble something out of the manga.
However, the journey wasn’t always smooth. Produced from 1983 to 1987 as a budget-friendly vehicle, the AE86 has aged considerably, and only a limited number of pristine models remain. Ron experienced frequent breakdowns with his first Hachi Roku, leading him to sell it in frustration. This decision was followed by regret, prompting him to seek out another; in total, he owned 11 different old Corollas.
“Out of all the cars I’ve driven, this one is the most enjoyable and fulfilling,” Ron stated.
The AE86 Ron currently drives is a well-maintained specimen. He undertook a complete restoration, dismantling it to the frame, repainting the chassis white, and swapping in a fifth-generation “black top” 20V 4AGE engine along with a 5-speed transmission from TRD. In terms of aesthetics, Ron has preserved the authenticity of the model by retaining original JDM Toyota bumpers and trim pieces, topped off with a set of 4-lug Volks TE37 race wheels.
Acknowledging the vintage and rarity of the AE86, Ron also purchased a brand-new 2017 Toyota 86 to start a fresh chapter.
“Whether it’s the AE86 or the new Toyota 86, they’re both incredibly fun to drive. I just can’t stay away from them,” Ron remarked.
.
