TOM'S Heritage unveils a resto-modded AE86 Corolla Levin

Preserving and fortifying what always made the AE86 special

Without question, the tail-happy 80s cult-classic Toyota Corolla Levin continues to resonate with car enthusiasts worldwide. This enduring appeal is precisely why many Japanese tuning houses remain deeply invested in these machines, cars made even more iconic by drifting and the Initial-D anime.

Recognizing this timeless passion, TOM’S has launched TOM’S Heritage, a dedicated restoration business created to mark the brand’s 50th anniversary. To underscore just how serious these builds are, TOM’S unveiled a fully completed, resto-modded Toyota Corolla Levin AE86 at the recently held Tokyo Auto Salon.

Team TOM’S

Founded in 1974 by Nobuhide Tachi, TOM’S (Tachi Oiwa Motor Sport) is one of Toyota’s most respected performance partners. The company has earned multiple championships in Super GT and Super Formula, while its close relationship with Toyota Gazoo Racing has helped translate racing technology directly to the street. TOM’S-developed components, such as superchargers and suspension systems, continue to be available for a wide range of Toyotas.

TOM’S Heritage

TOM’S Heritage is a premium resto-mod program that revitalizes iconic Toyota classics, turning them into modern collector cars. If you’ve ever wanted a brand-new Toyota AE86, this is as close as it gets, far beyond a simple tribute or sticker package.

More than a restoration, TOM’S Heritage bridges the past and present of Japanese motorsports, preserving the AE86’s legacy while enhancing performance through bespoke TOM’S components for sharper dynamics and meaningful power gains.

Restored Body & Modernization

TOM’S performed a full reconstruction of the AE86, beginning with a brand-new body-in-white unibody. Rather than simply restoring it to factory condition, the chassis was improved with additional welding and reinforcement.

From there, every component was restored or upgraded, with panels replaced, new fasteners used throughout, and select legacy Toyota parts incorporated where available. Subtle new aero pieces mirror the original design, while a completely redesigned underbody adds improved rigidity and airflow, all without compromising the car’s classic look.

Interior

The interior has been completely refreshed by TOM’S. The seats feature entirely new foam, not just reupholstered covers, to provide improved support while maintaining a classic feel. The upholstery uses modern materials carefully chosen to replicate the look, feel, and texture of 1980s-era interiors.

The door cards have also been redesigned, and ahead of the driver sits a TOM’S vintage-style three-spoke steering wheel, wrapped in leather to complete the period-correct driving environment. I’d say the only thing missing here would be for TOM’S to re-issue their iconic bucket seats by Sparco and a 4-point safety harness

Igeta

For any old-school Toyota enthusiast, the TOM’S Igeta is an instantly recognizable wheel. Originally produced in the 1970s, the iconic multi-spoke, one-piece design was cast in magnesium and offered exclusively in 13-inch diameters for racing use. During the 1980s, the Igeta evolved into a modular, three-piece wheel, retaining its distinctive inner design while adapting to changing motorsport needs.

As part of the TOM’S Heritage Project, the legendary Igeta has been brought back to life once again. Reproduced as a modern two-piece wheel and now available in a 15x7-inch diameter, the revived Igeta maintains its classic appearance while offering more contemporary fitment options.

4A-GE Power

Propulsion comes from a fully built, 1.6-liter 4A-GE, 20-valve, four-cylinder fitted with the TOM’S Racing Heritage Engine Package (TRA-4AL195). Far removed from a stock 4A-GE, this race-derived, high-revving engine delivers 195 PS that's significantly more than the original.

Featuring individual throttle bodies, Coil-on-Plug system, polished velocity stacks, TOSCO-style upswept header and bespoke internal components, it reflects TOM’S deep motorsport expertise and long-standing commitment to extracting serious performance from compact, naturally aspirated engines.

Modern Resto-Mod

Everything about this resto-modded car has been executed with care and meticulous attention to detail, hence its ¥16,500,000 price tag (or PHP 6.209 million). TOM’S has preserved what has always made the AE86 special: its lightness, balance, and pure driving enjoyment, while thoughtfully refining every element to suit modern roads and everyday use. The classic silhouette remains unmistakably intact, but behind the wheel, the experience is thoroughly modern.