Toyota Corolla AE86

vs

Ferrari 328 GTB

Japan vs Italy — 1983 vs 1985

Toyota Corolla AE86 (1983)
Ferrari 328 GTB (1985)
Specifications
Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX328 GTB
Horsepower128 hp270 hp
Torque110 lb-ft224 lb-ft
Engine Size1,587 cc3,186 cc
0-60 mph8.3 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed122 mph166 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec13.9 sec
Weight2,072 lbs2,784 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,350 mm
Length4,180 mm4,255 mm
Units Produced1,344
Original MSRP$10,998$68,495
Value (Excellent)$60,000$350,000
Collectibility9/107/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB 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.

Overview

The rivalry between Japan and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX versus 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 270 hp compared to 128 hp, a 142-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 Ferrari 328 GTB relies on a V8 DOHC with 3,186 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Toyota Corolla AE86 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 712 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB commands a significant premium over the 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1983 Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno GT-APEX rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.