There have been speculations that the launch of the next generation of the Toyota GT86 would be delayed. Nevertheless, the second-gen GT86 is coming, although we still have no idea what exactly it's going to look like. But if this certain automotive artist has his way, the next GT86 should have looks similar to the original 86 legend—the Toyota AE86.
An Automotive Icon Worth Resurrecting
The AE86 isn't actually a nameplate unlike the current 86 or GT86, which has been in existence since 2012. It's a series of twin rear-wheel drive compacts named Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno (with the retractable headlights). The name AE86 was derived from an internal code that Toyota used during its development. However, the names 86 and Hachi-Roku stuck due to various reasons.
Because of its affordable yet very fun-to-drive nature (and a whole lot more), the AE86 became a cult icon. It was catapulted to godly status when it became the featured car in the Japanese manga and anime series Initial D. Until now, the Fujiwara Tofu Shop's AE86 with its panda-like finish (black and white) remains the most popular 86.
Borrowing Design Elements From The AE86
Even at first glance, the digital rendering by Rain Prisk (@rainprisk on Instagram) of the next-gen GT86 takes inspiration from the AE86, in particular the one driven by Takumi Fujiwara. The digital rendering combines the modern looks of the GT86 and a number of design elements of the AE86, especially the Trueno.
For instance, Rain's GT86 render borrows the front look of the AE86 Trueno when its headlights are retracted. But instead of adopting the retractable headlights of the AE86 Trueno, Rain just made the headlights narrower. This also made the front grille particularly narrow. While we love the AE86 retractable headlights, they can't return due to various reasons.
Next-Gen GT86 With A Panda Finish
In addition, Rain's GT86 borrows the panda paint job of Takumi's AE86. The lower section dons a black finish while the upper body sports a white wrap. Just like Takumi's AE86, Rain's GT86 features a black side stripe that divides the white section into two. This black stripe also runs from the headlights all the way to the rear lights.
If there are things that Rain's GT86 lacks, it's the Fujiwara Tofu Shop letterings on the front door, the black hood, and the tofu on the trunk.
Source: @rainprisk on Instagram