Toyota Trueno Cars
The Toyota Trueno is a compact, sporty car that has become an iconic part of automotive culture in New Zealand. With its agile handling and responsive acceleration, the Trueno is well-suited to the country's winding roads and hilly terrain.
The Trueno was produced by Toyota from 1983-1987, with its most famous iteration being the AE86 model. This car gained popularity in the New Zealand drift scene thanks to its lightweight body, rear-wheel drive configuration, and front engine placement.
Under the hood, the AE86 Trueno features a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 112 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque. This engine may not sound like much on paper, but when combined with the car's low curb weight and agile chassis, it provides more than enough power for spirited driving.
Inside the cabin, drivers will find a basic but functional layout that emphasizes performance over luxury. The seats are supportive but not overly plush, while gauges and controls are arranged in a driver-focused manner.
One thing to note about the Trueno is that due to its age, finding parts and performing maintenance can be a challenge. However, dedicated fans of the car have created an active aftermarket community that offers everything from upgraded suspension components to specialized racing transmissions.
In terms of safety features, the Trueno is somewhat lacking compared to modern cars. Airbags were not yet standard during this car's production run, although some later models may have had them as optional equipment. As such, it's important for drivers to exercise caution when behind the wheel of any vintage car.
Overall, the Toyota Trueno remains an important piece of automotive history for New Zealand enthusiasts. Its lively driving dynamics and distinctive styling make it a favorite among many Kiwi drivers who appreciate fun-to-drive cars with unique personalities.
