Transforming a Toyota 86 into a Dream Machine

In 2012, I embarked on a journey that would ultimately redefine my love for cars. The spark was ignited by the allure of the Toyota 86, fueled further by a dream of power and the thrill of drifting. Little did I know that this journey would take unexpected turns, from broken backs to turbocharged dreams and, finally, a mesmerizing union with a Lexus V8. This is the story of how a mere car evolved into a roaring beast.

Owners Name and Surname: Stan Mengel
Builders Name and/or Shop name: Mark Jonker Race Performance Motorsport
Location of the vehicle: George, Western Cape
Year: 2012
Make: Toyota
Model: GT86

The Initial Infatuation: Back in 2012, I acquired one of the first Toyota 86s in South Africa. Inspired by a Top Gear review that hailed it as a boy racer's dream, I found joy in its 50/50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive. However, a longing for more power persisted. A skydiving accident forced me to part with the 86, but the desire lingered.

The Quest for Power: In 2018, fate smiled upon me as I stumbled upon an 86 for sale in Johannesburg with a supercharger, the same model Rob Green had modified years ago. Excitement turned to despair when a broken spark plug wreaked havoc on the engine. This setback led me to Mark Jonker of Race Performance Motorsport, setting the stage for an extraordinary transformation.

Turbocharged Dreams: After the 86 broke, Mark and I installed a fully forged engine that produced 265kW on our dyno. Initially envisioning a supercharged upgrade, we decided to go with turbo for low-end power. Converting the automatic transmission to manual presented challenges, but the real revelation came when Mark suggested a dream he had harbored: fitting an 86 with a Lexus V8. The result? A year and a half of meticulous work, creating a monster on wheels.

Bodywork Brilliance: The body, adorned in pearl white, underwent meticulous repair by the genius panel beater, RPM. Imported parts, including a sleeker aerial and various skirts that makes up the 86R Kit, contributed to the car's aesthetic appeal. The process, though lengthy, resulted in a pristine exterior.

Chassis and Suspension: Maintaining the original chassis, we opted for an Tein Z flex fully adjustable suspension for a perfect blend of soft and sporty driving. Rpm cross drilled discs and the original stock calipers was cleaned and painted.

Motor and Gearbox Marvel: The original 86 gearbox persisted, while the motor underwent a transformation by Race Performance Motorsport. The meticulous rebuilding process ensured the heart of the beast was as formidable as its appearance.

Interior Elegance: Imported interior mods faced a hurdle – the car was right-hand drive. A laughable realization led to plans for a leather interior redo. Upgrades included a MAXX ECU blip and modified buttons for sport mode, adding a touch of sophistication to the cockpit. The Sport buttons gives 15kw extra at 45 nm with more throttle response.

Wheels and Beyond: Fitted with 18-inch wheels and various upgrades from FT Speed, the car's aesthetics were elevated. Noteworthy additions include headlights, taillights, and a tiny 35-litre fuel tank that gives the car a motorcycle-like range.

The Unplanned Masterpiece: The end result deviated significantly from the original plan, but the deviation led to a masterpiece beyond our wildest dreams. The rebuild, spanning a year and a half, was filled with trials, errors, and the joy of creation.

Future Aspirations: As I stand in awe of the transformed Toyota 86, the next challenge looms – my bank balance. The dream continues, and the road ahead is paved with endless possibilities.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments: A special thanks to Mark Jonker and his son Justin for their unwavering passion. Various companies, including FT Speed, contributed to the journey, turning a car into a lifelong memory. And so, the story of a boy and his dream car unfolds, with the road ahead promising more twists and turns.

Race Performance Motorsport is set to manufacture 10 units of the 86R, each equipped with the following features:

  • 1UZ V8 engine with an RPM adapter plate that seamlessly mates with the 86 six-speed gearbox.
  • Uni-clutch 900Nm twin-disc clutch.
  • Custom RPM mountings and support braces.
  • Dual 63mm stainless steel exhaust with dual exit tips.
  • 76mm Bosch E throttle.
  • 76mm carbon cool air induction with K&N filter.
  • FTF fuel lines.
  • Carbon fiber battery cover with a leather pouch.
  • Maxx Race ECU featuring various CAN bus functions such as Sport mode, Blip up, Traction Control, Air conditioner control, and Drive by wire.
  • Golit RGB LED under-bonnet lighting.
  • Carbon-wrapped side mirrors.
  • Carbon-wrapped boot spoiler.
  • Side skirts.
  • Cross-drilled front and rear discs.
  • Full (R) badge sets for the front, side, and rear.