FYI: Garage Infinity’s annual event once again brings AE86 enthusiasts to Gunsei Pass, celebrating the beloved Hachiroku and other 4A-GE-equipped vehicles.
Gunsei Pass Welcomes AE86 Enthusiasts for Another Year of Fun
We’re back at Gunsei Pass for another thrilling celebration of AE86 bliss. This year’s event, organized by Garage Infinity, expanded to include all cars powered by the 4A-GE engine, yet the spotlight remained firmly on the iconic Hachiroku.
Gathering at the Starting Point
My day began at a local convenience store in Gunma Prefecture, a regular pit stop for drivers heading to renowned driving spots. Excitement filled the air as a rotating cast of impressive cars made their way to the event.
An AE86 Enthusiast’s Dream
Returning to Garage Infinity’s event felt like a homecoming. Having acquired my AE86 from this very garage, it was only natural to immerse myself in the festivities and soak in the unique atmosphere that surrounds these vehicles.
A Diverse Display of AE86s
The event showcased a wide variety of AE86 builds, proving once again that this chassis allows for extensive customization. Each car told its own story, from sleek street machines to drift-ready warriors. A standout was a cream-and-silver Trueno hatchback, which caught the eyes of everyone present.
Meeting Legends
Among the notable attendees was Naoki-san with his immaculate 4A-GE 20V "Blacktop" equipped Levin. His meticulously fine-tuned car garnered much admiration, and we even captured some in-car footage with a GoPro for a closer look at the action.
The Art of Capturing Speed
One of the highlights of attending an event at Gunsei Pass is the close proximity to the action. Standing behind a flimsy guardrail on a high-speed corner, photographers have the thrilling yet daunting task of capturing the perfect shot amidst a barrage of flying debris.
The Iconic Running Free Trueno
Hiroshi Takahashi, known as "Kaicho," brought his iconic red Running Free Trueno, featuring a stunning carbon roof swap. His car continues to evolve, consistently impressing the AE86 community with each iteration.
Insider’s Experience
Taking a passenger ride in one of the cars provided a fresh perspective on the high speeds and tight corners of Gunsei Pass. Capturing action shots from a moving vehicle proved challenging yet incredibly rewarding.
Conclusion
Gunsei Pass remains a revered destination for AE86 enthusiasts, and events like Garage Infinity’s 4A-GE exclusive festival accentuate its legendary status. Whether as a participant or a spectator, the passion and energy of this community continue to inspire and captivate.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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