A-45 AMG to 86
 

Hi Aussies,

Just traded a Face-lifted 2016 A45 AMG (280kw) for a 86 GT manual, mid-May pickup.

I was waiting for the new A/CLA 45s but it now maybe sometime away so I thought I will scratch the 86 itch which I've had since the launch of this car. I almost traded my 370z for the 86 in 2012 but picked up an Evo X instead but always loved the 86 setup.

Looked at the M2 competition recently but thought even if I have 70% of the fun in the 86 for a fraction of the cost, I can jump into the new AMG in 12-18 months and keep the 86 as a weekend/track toy.

Looking forward to joining the community and enjoying the car with a few mods and track days.

Any tips where I can get interior trim pieces in Aus?
Also best exhaust setup to bring out the boxer rumble – will a catback be enough or will I need uneven headers as well?

Cheers

Getting just an unequal length header should give you what you're after, the signature sound is mostly caused by the unequal length configuration. I have nothing to add about the interior pieces, I'm not in Aus so I can't make suggestions, sorry! Welcome, give us some photos when you've taken ownership!

Welcome!! Congrats on the new 86! Looking forward to more pictures of your 86 and the build progression and your thoughts on how it compares to the A45 AMG!

Unequal length headers would be the best way to bring out that Subie/boxer rumble that you're looking for. I would recommend JDL, Tomei, or Borla for a high-quality UEL with a deep rumble. :thumbup:

-Sam

But why??
I love my BRZ, but I wish i bought an A45 or M145i :(

G'day!


Google told me this for trim, have a browse and welcome;


https://www.google.com.au/search?sou...60.TjB45D_1tP8




Cheers

Thanks for the welcome and the advice.

I change cars on average every 2 years and I have always wanted an 86 as it is a rarity in today’s market.


I got what I needed out of my current A-45, I did track days, tour of Tasmania, lots of b-roads on the weekends and it was also comfortable daily. I can't fault the A45 as it does everything effortlessly and covers ground so so quickly. My biggest complaint would be the gearbox is sluggish in traffic but I think overall Merc/AMG knocked it out of the park with this car and I would highly recommend it to anyone. However for me it's time for a new experience.


It came down to a was a choice between the M2 Competition or the 86, either car would be a stop gap until the new A45s arrives as turbo/AWD is my preferred choice for a daily drive. To me buying the 86 meant I can get into the new AMG as soon as it is available and I get to keep a RWD-manual weekend/track toy.


The grass is always greener I suppose!