How cool is this? Toyota is going to build a real-life AE86 Sprinter Trueno. The car is a modified Toyota GT86 that's been given all of the real-life specs that the fictional AE86 received in the manga. Joe Clifford, a member of the Toyota UK Special Projects team that's behind the vehicle stated, "
Right from the start, the Toyota GT86 was developed as a car that would appeal to enthusiasts, whether in standard trim or as an exploitable base for further modifications. With this Initial D concept we not only acknowledge how important the AE86 was in influencing Toyota's modern approach to sports cars but also demonstrate how the GT86 can be aesthetically and dynamically improved with relatively simple aftermarket accessories. But perhaps most of all, we just thought it was an achingly cool idea."
Well put, Joe! Sadly, Toyota has no plans to mass produce the vehicle as they will simply display a model at various UK car shows this Summer.
MANGA Synopsis [from Amazon]: From zero to legend in 60 seconds... Delivery boy Tak unexpectedly discovers that the skills he has acquired on the treacherous mountain roads of Mt. Akina have made him a street racing master. Urged on by friends and driving a rundown Toyota, he shames the best racers in town. But, Tak discovers there's more to life, and to himself, than he thought. Initial D is sure to ignite U.S. manga and import car fans.
Created in 1995 by Shuichi Shigeno, the Initial D manga consists of 48 volumes and was published intermittently up until 2013. An anime series was produced by Studio Comet & Studio Gallop in 1998 which consisted of 26 episodes. Several anime films followed which continued the story. Shigeno's manga also recieved a live-action TV series and film adaptation as well.