after having read this thread, and OWNING a AE86 currently, i'd say whoever thinks the 86 is the be all and end all of FR is a knob.
it's a fun car to drive, yes. fast car? no. hell, it COULD use independent rear suspension for one thing.
but for ppl who wanna get into FR w/ a car that's EASY to DIY and learn stuff, there aren't that many cars in where i live that gives you that freedom.
it's a stepping stone ...that's how i see it.