This classic 1985 Toyota Sprinter GT APEX AE86 3 door coupe was inspected for a client at USS Nagoya auction on 21 April 2017.
This model became famous in Japan and then the rest of the world thanks to being featured in the Initial D series of Japanese manga and anime, then in Gran Turismo and other car racing video games. See Toyota AE86 Wiki for more details.
This has led to increasing demand for the cleanest and most genuine examples, and therefore increasing prices which are discussed more here:
This AE86 was in good condition overall considering age and modifications. The engine check warning light was on but may have been something simple like an O2 sensor as there was no apparent issue with the engine which was running fine when inspected. Not running hot and no unusual noises.
Auction report noted rust underneath, which can be seen in the close up pictures. This was actually not too bad for the age of the car and the body itself was solid. Importantly, there was no rust in other typical problem areas for this model, such as rear quarter panels.
Auction report also mentioned past repair history to front and rear, with “wrinkled” rear floor, and repair traces to the front of the car. On inspection it was clear that the rear underfloor had been damaged and repaired at some point in the past. However both front and rear repairs did not appear large, and were at least a few years old.
Interior was missing the rear seats and trim. A couple of cigarette burns on the seats, but no obvious smell of smoke inside the car.
Some cracking to the dash.
Aftermarket parts included: roll cage, LSD, exhaust manifold, muffler, computer, cams, clutch, BRIDE racing seat, stainless mesh brake hoses, air cleaner, steering wheel, gauges, WORK alloys (different front to rear), fenders, and FRP bonnet.
Clearly the vehicle had been used either on the track or for some spirited road use.
A few dents and other faults are noted in close up pictures. Tyres were nearly bald and needed replacing.
This AE86 was eligible for import to Australia under the 1988 and older rule.
It sold for 985,000 Yen FOB, which at the time would have been approx. $16,400 landed in Australia (at 82 Yen to the dollar), plus approx. $1,000 compliance allowance, new tyres and on road costs.
View other Japanese Classic Collector Car Auction Inspection Examples
We only source the best vehicles with clean and tidy interiors, and only vehicles we would be pleased to own ourselves. This is why we are constantly told by clients that the vehicles we source are well above the condition of most others on the local market.
Whether you’re looking for a classic 1985 Toyota Sprinter GT APEX AE86 like this, or any other type of vehicle we can find it for you in nice condition.
The pictures are typical of the information we provide prior to auction for each vehicle of interest, with any faults shown so you can clearly see the condition before we discuss whether to bid, and your budget.
It is vital when sourcing your vehicle to use an agent that takes the time to physically check each vehicle and looks beyond the auction pictures and report to confirm condition. Some vehicles may have an unpleasant smoke or other odour, rust underneath, or other faults which are impossible to know without inspection.
View Auctions to search for available vehicles and research 3 months of past auction sale prices for any make or model.
See What We Do to fully understand our car import service.
Our Import Cost Calculator sets out all the costs of importing a car from Japan.
Hi Geoff
I drove the Leaf 1500 km back to Townsville over the weekend.
It’s back here and straight into use. So far our fuel costs are 0 thanks to the sun.
If you want me to write a short piece for your website on your excellent service and get some good photos I’m happy to.
Thanks again.
Cheers
Dave