Project 86: The Story of Toyota and Subaru's Collaborative Masterpiece
In the automotive world, collaborative ventures often shape the landscape of innovation. Few such projects, however, have captured the imagination of enthusiasts like Project 86—the joint venture between Toyota and Subaru that gave birth to the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ. A testament to what strategic partnerships can achieve, Project 86 is a model for how two companies with distinct philosophies can come together to create something truly special. The Origins: A Vision for a Driver's Car The seeds of Project 86 were sown in 2008, when Toyota acquired a 16.5% stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru's parent company. This investment was not merely financial; it laid the groundwork for a deep technological and creative partnership. Both companies shared a vision of reviving the spirit of the affordable sports car—a segment that had been largely overshadowed by SUVs and performance sedans. For Toyota, the project represented an opportunity to honor the legacy of the AE86, a light...