November 14, 2022

Larry Chen’s Toyota GR86 on Motegi MR154 Battle

November 14, 2022

Photographer and Toyota Ambassador, Larry Chen, has built the ultimate GR86 “daily drifter” machine.

Whenever something catapults from its grassroots heydays to meteoric levels of success, it’s nice to take a step back to the fundamentals. For drifting, 1,000hp track-built drift machines are synonymous with the style, yet big budget builds—while equally impressive in their own right—lack a certain charm. Maybe it’s because they’re unattainable for the average enthusiast. Perhaps it’s because of the thousands of hours of seat time it takes to master a vehicle of that caliber. We think it’s what makes drifting such an intriguing sport and culture: the ability to piece together a track contender on (mostly) any budget. Enter Larry Chen’s “Daily Drifter.”

Larry Chen is no stranger to drifting. In fact, we’ve been keeping tabs and awaiting the opportunity to cover his personal build journeys for some time. So, when we had a chance to be a part of this Toyota GR86 build for SEMA 2022, we jumped on it. Chen’s 2022 Toyota GR86, aptly named “daily drifter,” showcases the capable second generation of Toyota’s lightweight RWD sports coupe. Already a popular platform for its affordability and performance potential, the GR86 was quickly transformed into a track missile capable of going toe-to-toe with big drift builds and driving home without a trailer.

While dedicated drift builds aren’t known for their plush and luxurious interiors, Chen opted to retain most of Toyota’s creature comforts and interior bits. However, that doesn’t mean this GR86 doesn’t have its share of track-day add-ons. A Studio RSR 4pt Roll Cage offers added protection and increased body rigidity, while a set of Sparco EVO QRT seats keep Chen and passengers firmly seated while sideways.

Although the GR86 doesn’t need much help getting sideways, a bump in power never hurts. Chen sought to resolve the adequate-yet-unfortunate factory power numbers of the 86 with the addition of an HKS GT2 Supercharger Pro ZD8 kit. With the car in the 300hp bracket, each facet of suspension, aero, and safety was addressed. This GR86 is outfitted with ST Suspension XTA Plus 3 coilovers and a slew of SPL suspension bits, including adjustable control arms and adjustable sway bar end links.

Visually, the Toyota gets its performance-forward aesthetic from a healthy serving of aero. Sporting HKS carbon fiber side skirts, a front splitter, and a rear diffuser, Chen finalized the exterior attitude with a functional Type-S carbon fiber rear spoiler. A Seibon carbon fiber hood is a perfect sponsor canvas, with some weight reduction as an added benefit. Each piece carefully chosen to add both exciting visual cues and functionality. Don’t forget the wrap! Designed and installed by Vader Works, the wrap matches Chen’s A90 Supra and pays homage to the Toyota Racing livery found on Supra GT racecars.

Lastly, Chen needed an ultra-durable and track-proven wheel and tire combo to ensure his motoring antics go uninhibited. The Motegi MR154 Battle is the perfect solution for the GR86, pairing a bold multi-spoke design and durable cast construction. Available in four distinct finishes and 17” and 18” diameters, the MR154 Battle effortlessly clears the StopTech Big Brake front calipers and pairs perfectly with the Yokohama ADVAN NEOVA AD09.