After 13 months of painstaking work in his home garage, a hobbyist engineer built a stunning 2/3-scale replica of a Toyota GR Yaris WRC. Toyota was so impressed it invited the builder to display the mini rally car at the historic Rallye Monte-Carlo.
In a story that blends engineering passion with official recognition, a car enthusiast spent 13 months building a miniature replica of the Toyota GR Yaris WRC inside his home garage. The project was so impressive that Toyota itself reached out, and the tiny car was invited to participate in events at the historic Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Who built the mini GR Yaris WRC?
According to a report from Carscoops, the project was undertaken by a hobbyist engineer who challenged himself to create a rally car at 2/3 scale. He used off-the-shelf components and a motorcycle engine to power the car, with a body that faithfully mimics the iconic GR Yaris WRC.
How did Toyota react?
When Toyota learned of the project, it didn’t just praise it on social media. The company invited the builder to display his creation at its hospitality area at Rallye Monte-Carlo. The miniature car was even flown to the event, where it stood alongside real rally cars, creating a proud moment for the amateur builder.
What are the specs of the mini car?
- Engine: Motorcycle-derived, approximately 50 hp
- Chassis: Hand-built from aluminum and fiberglass
- Weight: Around 400 kg (882 lbs)
- Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in about 6 seconds (estimated)
Can you buy a similar replica?
No, this project is one-of-a-kind and not commercially produced. However, it inspires many car enthusiasts to undertake similar home-built projects.
What does this mean for Gulf car enthusiasts?
Although the car is not for sale, the story highlights the culture of car modification and hand-built projects, a growing hobby in the region. It may encourage Gulf enthusiasts to share their own projects with manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did it take to build the mini GR Yaris?
It took 13 full months of work in a home garage, using available components and a motorcycle engine.
Did Toyota offer to buy the mini car?
There are no reports of Toyota offering to buy the car, but the company was highly impressed and invited the builder to display it at Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Can I build a similar replica of the Toyota GR Yaris WRC?
Theoretically yes, but the project requires advanced engineering skills and a long time. There are no ready-made kits, so it is entirely a custom project.
Sources
- Carscoops — He Spent 13 Months Building A Mini GR Yaris WRC In His Garage, Then Toyota Called
