I don't usually post on these topics, but I know what you're going through =D.
The 86 is a great car to learn how cars work, no doubt. Parts are relatively cheap, working on it is pretty simple, excluding the fact you may encounter rusted out bolts, but thats granted on any old car, even found on neglected newer cars =D. With an open mind, and some determination, and a HUGE wallet, you'll have a fun and learning experience with the 86, for sure.
The 86 isn't like any other car (obviously), and it does have its quirks. Don't think of even modifying anything when you get it, because before you know it, you'll be getting maintence problems. From WTF is that squeaky noise, to awww SHIT my damn head gasket is blown, or my damn water pump just ceased! And I think all the 86ers, newbies or pro's can account for that first hand
In my honest opinion, if you come from a rich family, why the hell would you want an 86??? haha just kidding, it's managable. If you don't have the disposable income avavilable, it may be a little challenging. For sure, it's a money pit, and sometimes it's just down right frustrating.
If you're mechanically inclined, the 86 isn't that bad to fix. We've had the luxury of being helped when didn't know wtf an o2 sensor was, and later, what the hell the valve clearance was. It might seem pretty simple now, but it's really nice to have someone who knows a lot about cars right there, or a phone call away when you need it. (and hope you got the proper tools)
I gotta agree with the other guys on this though,
it's a horrible first car period.
No matter the condition, you'll always have something wrong with it, because it IS old. It takes alot of money, time, effort, searching, and it goes on forever. It's a slow car, (really it is), and most of the time, you'll be trying to find parts just to get it to work.
I'd recommend researching the 86, if you really want one. Theres alot of headaches that come with owning one, let alone finding one. It's a great car, just maybe not the best for a first car. I recommend you purcahse something newer, not to discourage you, but just because in hindsight, you'll see alot of money just disappear, and fast.
Personally, My brother and I have seen 3 86's
2 were scrapped for parts, and the third was built
we're lucky to have a pretty big garage, with a dad that's been pretty nice, considering we take up the whole garage, basically.
We've been lucky to have all the tools available to us, from the engine hoist, to ratchet sets, torque wrenches, and everything you'll need, down to those damn speciality tools toyota needs.
We've been lucky that nick gets huge discounts on shipping, and we've been lucky to have a faimly with massive amounts of automotive knowledge.
I'm glad that it wasn't my first car, and it was a project car. it spent most of the time in the garage, trying to get it to work right, then it did on the track or on the road.
Post back, and we can chit chat about it, constructively (sp?)
i'll help ya decide on the 86 in a non biased opinion, as i think most guys will as well. just a word of advice, don't even say one word of initial-d or takumi, you'll get flamed..
Good luck with your decision, and btw: it's hard to pick up hot girls in an 86, as opposed to a newer car
edit: I keep forgetting things =( Yeah, dont' rely on a shop, it's a do it yourself car for sure, or don't get one thing. IT'd be way to expensive for a shop to do... and don't be surprised when you see thousands of dollars disappear fast... heh..
bad experience, and this doesn't include the money spent due to all the bad parts....
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