Alex's AE86 Corolla
Keeping the dream alive with an 80’s JDM icon.
Baton Rouge, LA - Roads are rough, the weather volatile, and despite it all, car culture is as prevalent as anywhere in the US. It takes serious commitment to make any classic restoration a reality. It’s especially challenging on the Gulf Coast where humidity, UV, and high temperatures can even take a heavy toll on modern vehicles and finishes. This is why I was so excited to talk to Alex about his love for 80s JDM and his THREE AE86 coupes.
Having moved from the West Coast, I took the JDM scene for granted. Sure, there are enthusiasts around the world, but the large community in places like SoCal or the Northwest make access to experts and parts significantly easier than other parts of the country. Alex is extremely passionate about this platform and after talking with him, I think the rarity and challenge is part of the fun for him. Baton Rouge is home to a few but very experienced Honda shops, but the Toyota following is a bit smaller. The community is small but tight-knit and Alex still keeps in-touch with the previous owners of his cars. They can count on each other for info and more importantly, when searching for rare OEM parts. This network came into play when one of Alex’s AE86s in the rare factory original yellow was involved in a hit and run just before we met up for photos.
With his yellow project car out of commission, we still opted to meet up and get some photos of his SR5 coupe, which he drives daily. This black 1985 Corolla may not be as flashy, but this simple build hits a perfect sweet spot between drivability and retro JDM style. The 4A-C has been out fitted with Techno Toy Tuning adjustable cam gear, and a kouki head for higher compression. the carburetor has received a 63mm velocity stack and on the other end, a Techno Toy Tuning test pipe and HKS Hi-Power catback give the humble 1.6L a satisfying note.
On the suspension side, Alex is running Stance USA coilovers and stiffer sway bars and bracing. This all helps to keep the 14x6 SSR XR-4s on the ground, and the already capable chassis feeling planted. The short wheel base and high revving engine are a combo that keeps this 35 year-old classic relevant. Alex’s next big tasks of restoring the interior and exterior on this car are taking a back-burner to rebuilding the his damaged yellow 86 first. The accident was a major setback and it’ll take some time to source all the OEM replacement parts; primarily shipped in from California and Texas. But who doesn’t love a redemption/restoration story and with his level of determination, I can’t wait to see where he takes his AE86 projects next.
