Toyota Corolla AE86

vs

Toyota Crown

Japan vs Japan — 1983 vs 1955

Toyota Corolla AE86 (1983)
Toyota Crown (1955)
Specifications
Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEXCrown Athlete JZS171
Horsepower128 hp280 hp
Torque110 lb-ft279 lb-ft
Engine Size1,587 cc2,491 cc
0-60 mph8.3 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed122 mph155 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec14.0 sec
Weight2,072 lbs3,439 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,780 mm
Length4,180 mm4,820 mm
Original MSRP$10,998
Value (Excellent)$60,000$35,000
Collectibility9/105/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

The 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX and 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 share a manufacturer in Toyota, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Toyota brand. The 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 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 Crown relies on a Inline-6 DOHC Turbocharged with 2,491 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Toyota Crown Athlete JZS171 edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Toyota Corolla AE86 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1367 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.