Pre-orders are now open for the definitive replica of Initial D’s iconic AE86
Pre-orders have opened for a new, 30th-anniversary-edition die-cast model of the iconic Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86 from the legendary manga series Initial D.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the original serialization of the hit street racing manga by Shuichi Shigeno, and this new, 1/18 scale model is a celebration of that long legacy.
The new model from the manufacturer AUTOart is a “Project D Final Version” of the protagonist Takumi Fujiwara’s famous “panda” Trueno, depicting the car in its final, fully-tuned form from the series.
AUTOart is a premium brand known for its incredibly detailed and high-quality die-cast models.
This new AE86 is based on a 3D scan of a real car and features a sharp and realistic body line, as well as the satisfying, solid feel of opening doors and a hood.
While based on a previous model, this new, 30th-anniversary version features a number of renewed and updated details in its lights and its interior and exterior, making it an even more faithful recreation of both the real-life car and the manga.
A key feature of the model is its extensive list of custom parts, all of which are a tribute to the car’s “fully-tuned” status in the story.
These include:
- A carbon fiber hood
- A large-diameter muffler
- Inch-up, 8-spoke wide wheels
- A full roll cage
- A sports-type steering wheel
- A fully custom meter panel
- A Group A-spec, AE101-derived TRD engine with individual throttle bodies
The model comes in a special, 30th-anniversary package that includes a metal plate, making it a perfect collector’s item.
The “AUTOart 1/18 Toyota Sprinter Trueno (AE86) ‘Initial D’ ‘Project D’ Final Version (30th ANNIVERSARY)” is priced at ¥39,600 (approx. $270 USD / £215 GBP).
It is currently available for pre-order at various online retailers, including the official AUTOart online store.
The model is scheduled to be released on the 31st of December, 2025.
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