Building a project car can be an expensive and time-consuming experience, especially when you’re attempting modifications that require extensive mechanical knowledge. However, one Toyota AE86 owner recently decided to take on an unusual challenge by installing a twin-turbocharger setup on a four-cylinder engine, despite admitting that they’ve never turbocharged a vehicle before.
The enthusiast took to Reddit’s r/projectcar community on October 26 to share photographs of the ambitious project involving a 1984 Toyota Corolla AE86. Rather than installing a conventional single-turbo system, the owner acquired an old VAZ Speed twin-turbo kit featuring two IHI RHB6 turbochargers arranged in parallel, with each turbocharger serving two cylinders.
What makes the project particularly interesting is that the builder isn’t working with a substantial budget or years of experience modifying engines. Instead, they’re relying on enthusiasm, a 3D printer, and plans for a custom Arduino-based engine management system to help bring the unusual setup to life.
The owner also acknowledged that installing two turbochargers on a relatively small four-cylinder engine might not be the most practical approach to increasing horsepower. However, the goal isn’t necessarily to build the fastest AE86 possible, as the enthusiast appears equally interested in experimenting with the setup and enjoying the distinctive sounds of two turbochargers.
Toyota AE86’s Unusual Twin-Turbo Setup Combines Industrial Parts and Budget Engineering
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Twin Turbo 4 Cylinder AE86 Corolla
by
u/PlaneTMRS in
projectcar
According to the Reddit post, the builder acquired an old VAZ Speed twin-turbo kit featuring two IHI RHB6 turbochargers arranged in parallel, with one mounted higher than the other. The owner explained that the turbochargers have applications in small industrial machinery, making their intended use on Toyota’s four-cylinder engine particularly unconventional.
The owner also sourced an intercooler from a Nissan 200ZR, adding another unusual component to the collection of parts intended for the build. Before installing the turbochargers, however, the enthusiast plans to experiment with an Arduino-based engine management system and custom wiring harness, initially focusing on getting the engine running properly without forced induction.
Interestingly, the builder intends to keep boost pressure relatively low, targeting approximately 4.4 to 5.8 psi because of concerns about the original engine’s durability. Although the project is still in its early stages, the owner has already begun exploring custom fabrication and electronics, with plans to document the process through a YouTube video detailing the components and intended modifications.
Comments and Reactions to Toyota AE86’s Twin-Turbo Experiment
Several Reddit users were intrigued by the unconventional approach, although some questioned whether two small turbochargers would provide any meaningful advantage over a properly sized single-turbo setup. Others discussed the possibility of excessive turbo lag, with the builder acknowledging that the arrangement would probably be sluggish but explaining that outright performance wasn’t the primary objective.
Some participants were particularly interested in the builder’s willingness to experiment despite having limited experience and financial resources. The owner acknowledged that the project might not be especially efficient but explained that producing entertaining turbo noises was one of the reasons for pursuing the twin-turbo arrangement.
Interestingly, commenters also noticed the AE86’s custom 3D-printed headlights, prompting additional discussion about the owner’s fabrication work beyond the engine bay. With the twin-turbo system still awaiting completion, the project has become an unusual example of an enthusiast prioritizing creativity and experimentation over conventional performance upgrades.