Hot Wheels Releases Dai Yoshihara’s ‘AE86R’, And It’s The Ultimate Stocking Filler
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Hot Wheels just launched the ‘Elite 64 Toyota Corolla Levin (AE86) Custom’, a hyper-accurate model based on Formula DRIFT driver Daijiro Yoshihara’s Turn 14 Distribution Toyota Corolla AE86 drift car, dubbed the ‘AE86R’.
For some, it might come as a surprise that the real-world version features a Honda K-swap, with a 306-horsepower 2-liter Civic Type R turbocharged K20C1 engine paired with an S2000 gearbox.
However, we can’t promise there’s a K20 under the hood of this model version!
Originally designed by Kei Miura, the AE86R features a TRA Kyoto Pandem Widebody Kit that has been perfectly replicated for the model.
It could be the perfect Christmas gift
Given that your chances of owning Dai’s one-off build are slim, this 1:64-scale version is the closest you’ll likely ever get. Well, unless he fancies selling up, of course.
The best part? It’ll only set you back 20 bucks, making the dinky Hachi-Roku model the perfect Christmas stocking filler for any JDM, Initial D, or drifting fan.
There’s a surprising attention to detail
With the widebody model, you get Hot Wheels “Custom Real Riders” replicas of Dai’s real-world deep-dish custom BBS Motorsport wheels, and they’ve even provided some negative camber for added drift-ready vibes.
Inside, the details continue with red bucket seats (though the listing states light-blue?) based on Sparco Racing QRT-Rs, alongside a chunky teal roll cage.
Up front are more intricate details like a GReddy intercooler and even hood fasteners. Unfortunately, there’s no opening hood, though!
The Elite 64 Toyota Corolla Levin (AE86) Custom comes packaged on an illustrated blister card in a Kar Keepers clamshell case, making it the perfect addition to any Hot Wheels fan’s collection.
Admittedly, it’ll sit nicely under my monitor, and I’m now fighting the urge to click the buy button!
Hot Wheels not your thing? This LEGO version of Takumi Fujiwara’s AE86 might be more up your street.
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Bill is a writer and photographer who has been part of the Drifted team since 2015. His work extends to various print and online publications, including Wangan Warriors.
As part of the King of Nations team, he traveled extensively for several years, capturing top-tier international drift events worldwide. His hands-on experience, including rebuilding his own Nissan Silvia S15 drift car, gives him unique insights into drift car building and global drift culture.
When not behind the lens or keyboard, Bill can be found browsing classifieds for his next JDM project or shredding virtual tires on popular simulators like Assetto Corsa, CarX, and Forza.
You can learn more about Bill’s story here or follow his socials on X (formerly Twitter), Flickr, Facebook, and Instagram.
