Japan vs Japan — 1983 vs 1997
| Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX | Century V12 (GZG50) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 128 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 110 lb-ft | 339 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,587 cc | 4,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 15.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,072 lbs | 4,630 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 3,025 mm |
| Length | 4,180 mm | 5,270 mm |
| Original MSRP | $10,998 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Toyota has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX with the 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 128 hp, a 152-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Corolla AE86 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 4A-GE displacing 1,587 cc, while the Toyota Century relies on a V12 DOHC with 4,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Toyota Corolla AE86 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2558 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.