Nostalgia can be powerful—just look at pop-up headlights. Back in the 1980s, they were all the rage, adding a sleek, aerodynamic touch to cars. But as smoother, rounded designs became popular in the 1990s and 2000s, pop-up headlights fell out of favor, often mocked online rather than admired as a stylish feature.
We didn’t realize how special they were—especially now, with modern pedestrian safety rules making them almost impossible to use on new cars. Fortunately, one Japanese tuner is looking to bring pop-up headlights back, giving these classic design elements a second chance in automotive history.
Looking Poised For Some Tofu Delivery
The pop-up headlights are part of a full wide-body makeover for the first-generation Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, designed by Result Japan. Called the NEO86, this body kit completely transforms the car’s look. It includes new front fenders, added rear flares, and a wider rear bumper to match the car’s beefier stance.
The makeover also features a flatter hoodline, a sharper front bumper, and—most eye-catching of all—a hidden headlight kit with classic pop-up halogens. This isn’t just a simple bolt-on kit; it requires significant modifications to the car’s inner sheet metal. The result, however, is a striking and comprehensive visual transformation that gives the car a bold, unique personality.
Especially in the black-and-white color scheme that Result Japan has been using to showcase its body kit, the GR86 starts to strongly resemble its iconic predecessor, the AE86 Toyota Sprinter Trueno, made famous in the drift-heavy Initial D manga series. That resemblance isn’t a coincidence. When designing the first-generation sports car—variously known as the Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S, Toyota GT86, or simply Toyota 86—the automakers intentionally drew inspiration from the rear-wheel-drive Corolla.
Like the legendary Hachi-Roku, the 86 is lightweight and modestly powered, but it’s brilliantly balanced. That combination allows drivers to explore thrilling yet controllable drift angles, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate precision and fun on the road.
Headed To The Salon (And The US)
If you’re a fan of Result Japan’s work, there’s good news: the NEO86 body kit is headed to the Tokyo Auto Salon this weekend, where enthusiasts will be able to see it in person. Even better, the pop-up headlights won’t be limited to customers in Japan. Result Japan has confirmed that the NEO86 will also be available in the U.S. through its local retailer, My Japan Direct.
Pricing hasn’t been officially announced, but don’t expect it to be cheap. Other body kits from Result Japan listed by My Japan Direct start at $2,000 or more. The NEO86 is a full wide-body conversion, which means the front bumper, hood, and headlights require significant modifications to fit properly. Factor in professional installation, and the costs could add up by thousands of dollars.
Still, if you’re lucky with negotiations on a BRZ, FR-S, or 86, you might be able to get your own NEO86 for around $25,000. That’s a lot for a car originally known as an affordable sports coupe, but the Result Japan pseudo-Trueno look might make it worth it. After all, a well-kept original Sprinter can cost about the same, so investing in a modern, more powerful, and unique sports car might not be a bad trade at all.
FAQ’s
1. What is the NEO86?
The NEO86 is a wide-body restyling of the first-generation Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ by Result Japan, featuring new fenders, rear flares, a wider bumper, and pop-up headlights.
2. Who designed the NEO86 body kit?
Result Japan is the design company behind the NEO86 body kit.
3. Which cars is the NEO86 compatible with?
It is compatible with the first-generation Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, and Scion FR-S.
4. What is the inspiration behind the NEO86 design?
The design draws inspiration from the AE86 Toyota Sprinter Trueno, made famous in the drift manga series Initial D.
5. What type of headlights does the NEO86 feature?
The NEO86 includes pop-up halogen headlights, a rare feature in modern cars.
6. Are the pop-up headlights functional?
Yes, the pop-up headlights are fully functional and designed to meet modern standards.
7. What modifications are required to install the NEO86 kit?
Installing the kit requires significant adjustments to the car’s inner sheet metal to fit the bumper, hood, and headlights.
8. Does the NEO86 kit change the hood design?
Yes, it includes a flatter hoodline to complement the overall wide-body aesthetic.
9. What color schemes are used to showcase the NEO86?
Result Japan has primarily showcased the kit in black and white, emphasizing the AE86 resemblance.
10. How does the NEO86 affect the car’s stance?
The wide-body kit adds a more aggressive stance with wider fenders, rear flares, and a beefier rear bumper.
11. Does the NEO86 require professional installation?
Yes, due to the extensive modifications needed, professional installation is highly recommended.
12. Can the NEO86 be installed on modern Toyota 86 models?
The kit is designed for first-generation models only; newer generations may require custom modifications.
13. Where will the NEO86 be showcased?
It will debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
14. Will the NEO86 be available outside Japan?
Yes, it will be available in the U.S. through My Japan Direct.
15. What is the expected cost of the NEO86 kit?
Pricing hasn’t been officially announced, but it is expected to be $25,000 or more, including installation.
16. How does the NEO86 compare to the original AE86?
It visually channels the AE86’s design cues while adding modern performance and styling upgrades.
17. Does the NEO86 include suspension upgrades?
The kit focuses on exterior styling; suspension modifications may be separate or optional.
18. What materials are used for the NEO86 body kit?
The kit uses high-quality sheet metal and reinforced plastics for durability and fitment.
19. Are the rear fenders wider with the NEO86?
Yes, the rear fenders are extended to match the wide-body design.
20. Does the NEO86 affect the car’s weight?
It may slightly increase weight due to wider panels and reinforced materials.
21. Are pop-up headlights legal?
Yes, the pop-up headlights are designed to meet road safety standards in Japan and the U.S.
22. Is the NEO86 a bolt-on kit?
No, installation requires significant modifications to the car’s sheet metal and structural components.
23. Can the NEO86 be removed later?
Yes, but doing so requires reversing the modifications, which may be costly.
24. How does the NEO86 affect resale value?
It may increase value for enthusiasts but could limit appeal to general buyers.
25. Are the pop-up headlights manually operated?
No, they are electrically operated with hidden mechanical overrides for safety.
26. Does the NEO86 come with custom bumpers?
Yes, both front and rear bumpers are redesigned to match the wider body and new styling.
27. Is the NEO86 limited edition?
Result Japan has not stated a production limit, but availability may be limited initially.
28. What is the hoodline change in the NEO86?
The hoodline is flatter and sleeker, contributing to a sportier profile.
29. Are the pop-up headlights inspired by a specific era?
Yes, they pay homage to 1980s and early 1990s pop-up headlights, popular on classic sports cars.
30. Does the NEO86 affect aerodynamics?
The wide-body kit improves visual aerodynamics but may slightly increase drag due to the added panels.
31. Are the headlights halogen or LED?
The pop-up headlights are halogen units.
32. How does the NEO86 compare to a stock Toyota 86?
It offers a more aggressive stance, wider body, pop-up headlights, and a retro-inspired design.
33. Are the fenders pre-painted?
They may come unpainted, requiring custom color matching during installation.
34. Will the NEO86 affect insurance rates?
Yes, modifications could increase premiums due to altered bodywork and increased value.
35. How difficult is installation?
It’s complex and may take several days, depending on professional expertise.
36. Are rear lights modified in the NEO86?
Result Japan focuses mainly on the body and front styling; rear lights are typically unchanged.
37. Can the kit be installed on manual and automatic models?
Yes, it is compatible with both transmission options.
38. Does the kit include interior modifications?
No, the NEO86 focuses on exterior styling and lighting.
39. Is the NEO86 safe for daily driving?
Yes, but professional installation is recommended to ensure structural integrity and safety.
40. Can the NEO86 be shipped internationally?
Yes, My Japan Direct handles international sales and shipping for the kit.
41. Are installation manuals provided?
Yes, Result Japan provides detailed instructions, but professional installation is still advised.
42. Are pop-up headlights a common modification today?
No, they are rare due to modern safety regulations and changing automotive design trends.
43. How does the NEO86 honor the AE86 legacy?
Through its black-and-white color scheme, pop-up headlights, and rear-drive inspired stance.
44. Will the NEO86 fit over stock wheels?
Yes, but wider fenders may allow for larger wheels if desired.
45. Does the kit include mounting hardware?
Yes, all necessary mounting components are included, though some modifications may require custom work.
46. Is the NEO86 available for preorder?
Yes, interested buyers can preorder via My Japan Direct in the U.S. and at the Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan.
47. Can the kit be installed on a used 86?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is in good structural condition to handle the modifications.
48. How long has Result Japan been making kits?
Result Japan is known for high-quality Japanese tuning and has produced multiple performance and styling kits for various vehicles.
49. Will the kit affect car performance?
Performance changes are minimal; the kit focuses on styling rather than engine or drivetrain modifications.
50. Does the NEO86 require custom tools for installation?
Some basic tools may suffice, but professional installation may require specialized tools for sheet metal adjustments.
51. Why are pop-up headlights nostalgic?
They were popular in the 1980s and 1990s for their unique, aerodynamic look and have since become a beloved retro design element.
52. Can other colors be applied to the NEO86?
Yes, paint customization is possible after installation to match the owner’s preferences.
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