Toyota launches 2017 86 Racing Series

Toyota says both the fan base and grid is growing (now at 38 entries), with the same mix of emerging talent and established veterans that made last year's series such a hit.

Amongst the 14 new faces in the series this season are two from New Zealand and Queensland's Declan Fraser, whose 86 racer is also his first car. The 16-year-old, who's a state-level karting champion, is funding his T86RS entry with money from his own small business, and aims to use this series as a step towards his ultimate goal - Formula 1.

 

"I have seen the opportunities guys racing in 2016 have had and I thought it would be fantastic to get into," Declan said. "With the pro and mentor drivers and Supercars teams watching on, it will give me a fantastic stepping stone to learn how to drive a race car."

Held alongside rounds of this year's Supercars championship, the 2017 T86RS schedule takes in Phillip Island, Townsville, Sydney, Bathurst and Newcastle, with a total prize pool of $125,000.

 

"The Toyota 86 is the perfect platform to help develop driving and engineering skills," said Toyota's Tony Cramb.

 

"The cost of cars and racing are comparatively low and attract a range of drivers, from those still at school with a national series in their sights, to experienced businessmen and even a surgeon out there to have fun on the grid."

Cars used in the series are based on showroom-spec 86 coupes, but with additions and upgrades including a MoTeC ECU, TRD oil cooler, custom exhaust system from Neal Bates Motorsport, adjustable suspension, upgraded brakes, roll cage, race seat and harness, as well as 18-inch alloys and Dunlop Direzza tyres. All cars are built to the same spec.

 

This year's series is significant for Toyota as it marks the 60th Anniversary of their first participation at an international motorsport event, namely the 1957 Mobilgas Rally. Back then, Toyota entered a single Toyopet Crown RSD (Deluxe) sedan in the tough, 17,000km around-Australia event. With a Japanese driver pairing (consisting of Toyota employees rather than professional drivers), an Aussie navigator and carrying all their own food, water, tools and spare parts, the 1.5-litre Toyopet completed the 19-day rally and finished third in the 'international' class.