Ever dreamed of owning a Toyota AE86, but couldn't afford the real deal? Well, get this: you can actually buy a replica AE86 body from Alibaba, and some clever folks have turned it into a real car! But here's the catch: it's not a straightforward process. BigTime, a YouTube channel dedicated to car restoration, took on the challenge of transforming a reproduction shell into a driveable AE86. They sourced the shell from Battle Garage, an AE86 specialist, who had acquired the one displayed at SEMA. However, the story doesn't end there. Battle Garage revealed that the shell in the Alibaba ad was not a reproduction but a modified Hong Kong car. This raises questions about the authenticity of the shells available online. Despite the challenges, BigTime's journey is fascinating. They encountered issues with the shell's quality, alignment, and welding, but also found some positive aspects, like the doors, which seemed reconditioned. The real question is: is it worth the effort and cost? The answer depends on your needs. If you're building a track car and don't need a VIN, this could be a viable option. However, if you're looking for a straight-as-an-arrow body, you might be better off with a well-maintained original shell. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific requirements and budget. So, what do you think? Is this a game-changer for AE86 enthusiasts, or just a costly mistake?
