DeAgostini AE86 – Issue #5–#7 (Packaging + Parts Review)

A quick continuation from Issue #3–#4

After Issue #3 and #4, the AE86 build continues to move deeper into the mechanical side of the car.

Issue #5 to #7 are still not the “fun big parts” stage yet, but they are very important. This batch is mainly focused on the front suspension, brake-related parts, and more details around the engine bay / drivetrain system.

If you like the “slow build” style of this DeAgostini series, these issues are exactly the kind of steps that quietly build up the foundation.

Issue #5 – Suspension & Right Cylinder Block Parts

Issue #5 continues with more mechanical parts, and the main focus here is assembling the suspension components, together with parts related to the right-side cylinder block.

This issue feels very “engineering heavy” — a lot of small parts, screws, and linkages. Not the most exciting issue visually, but definitely the kind of issue that matters later.

Packaging Notes

Issue #5 is still packed in the same sealed retail-style box format, similar to Issue #3 and #4. Because the box is sealed, we can’t actually confirm the internal packing method (whether it’s a clear blister tray or not) without opening it.

So for now, this issue remains in the “sealed box” category.

Issue #5 Parts List

Here’s what comes in Issue #5:

• 5-A Cylinder Block (R)
• 5-B MacPherson Strut (L)
• 5-C Strut Upper Mount (L)
• 5-D Knuckle Arm (L)
• 5-E Tie Rod (L)
• 5-F Cylinder Block Bracket
• 5-G Washer
• 5-H Water Bypass Pipe (1)
• 5-I Water Bypass Pipe (2)
• 5-J Vacuum Control Valve
• 5-K Front Coil Spring

Screws included

• AM screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×19 (includes spare x4)
• CM screw (2.0 × 4mm) ×2 (includes spare x1)

First Impression (Issue #5)

This issue has a very “real car mechanic” feel.

The coil spring is one of the most interesting parts in this batch, because it immediately reminds you that this is not just a display model — it’s trying to recreate a real suspension structure step by step.

Also, the amount of small screws included is quite generous, which is always reassuring for a long-running partwork kit like this.

Issue #6 – Disc Brake + Cylinder Block Assembly

Issue #6 continues from the previous suspension work and shifts focus into disc brake components and more engine-related parts.

This issue feels like a continuation of the foundation work — small pieces that don’t look impressive on their own, but will become important once the full undercarriage starts coming together.

Issue #6 Packaging (Packaging Style Changed)

Starting from Issue #6, the packaging format changes.

Instead of a sealed box, the magazine and parts are packed together in a clear plastic bag, and the parts are clearly arranged inside a transparent blister tray.

This is a much more “partwork kit style” packaging, and it makes it easier to check the parts at a glance without opening anything.

Issue #6 Parts List

• 6-A Cylinder Block (L)
• 6-B Cylinder Head Rear Plate
• 6-C Heater Outlet Hose
• 6-D Water Outlet Pipe
• 6-E Distributor Cap
• 6-F Disc Hub
• 6-G Brake Disc (1)
• 6-H Disc Brake Dust Cover
• 6-I Brake Caliper (1)
• 6-J Brake Caliper (2)
• 6-K Brake Disc (2)
• 6-L Washer
• 6-M Oil Filter
• 6-N Oil Filter Bracket
• 6-O Plug Cord Clamp

Screws included

• AP screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×6 (includes spare x1)
• AM screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×4 (includes spare x1)
• SM screw (1.7 × 3mm) ×4 (includes spare x1)
• TM screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×3 (includes spare x1)
• VM screw (2.3 × 4 × 6mm) ×2 (includes spare x1)

First Impression (Issue #6)

This issue is quite satisfying because you can already see the brake system starting to take shape.

The brake discs and calipers are especially nice, because these are recognizable car parts even at a glance. It gives a sense that the AE86 is slowly becoming a real machine, not just a pile of screws and brackets.

Also, the inclusion of the oil filter is a fun detail — small, but it adds realism to the engine area.

Issue #7 – Transmission Case & Alternator Parts

Issue #7 moves into drivetrain territory, focusing on the right transmission case and alternator parts, along with additional engine bay components.

This issue is interesting because it begins introducing parts that feel more “engine room related,” and the alternator parts are a nice touch for detail lovers.

Issue #7 Packaging (Same as Issue #6)

Issue #7 continues the same new format introduced in Issue #6.

All parts are arranged inside a clear blister tray, and the full set is packed inside a clear plastic bag instead of a sealed box.

This is honestly a better presentation, especially for people who like to check part condition and completeness immediately.

Issue #7 Parts List

• 7-A Transmission Case (R)
• 7-B Mount Bracket
• 7-C Alternator Pulley (1)
• 7-D Alternator Pulley (2)
• 7-E Alternator Bracket
• 7-F Alternator (1)
• 7-G Alternator (2)
• 7-H Alternator (3)
• 7-I Connector
• 7-J A/C Compressor (1)
• 7-K A/C Compressor Pulley (1)
• 7-L A/C Compressor Pulley (2)
• 7-M A/C Compressor (2)
• 7-N A/C Compressor (3)
• 7-O A/C Compressor Bracket

Screws included

• AP screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×8 (includes spare x2)
• AM screw (1.7 × 4mm) ×3 (includes spare x1)
• SM screw (1.7 × 3mm) ×5 (includes spare x1)

First Impression (Issue #7)

This is probably the most interesting issue out of this batch.

The alternator parts are surprisingly detailed for a partwork kit, and once again it reminds you that DeAgostini is really trying to recreate the AE86 like a real car — not just an outer shell.

The transmission case part is also a “big step forward” kind of piece, because it feels like something that will become visually important once the drivetrain area is built up.

Overall Thoughts (Issue #5 to #7)

Issue #5 to #7 are not the “wow factor” stage yet, but they are the kind of issues that make the later stages possible.

This batch is basically:

• Suspension foundation (Issue #5)
• Brake and engine detail parts (Issue #6)
• Transmission + alternator / A/C related parts (Issue #7)

If you’re building this kit slowly, these are the kind of issues you will enjoy if you like mechanical details and realistic structure.

Next Issue Preview (Issue #8)

From the preview shown on the packaging, Issue #8 will continue the drivetrain work and includes more parts related to the transmission / engine system.

So the build is still firmly in the “mechanical assembly” phase.

Closing Note

This batch is exactly what I would call the “slow foundation stage.”

It doesn’t look impressive yet, but the moment you start connecting these suspension and brake parts into a full chassis, everything will suddenly make sense.

So for now, just enjoy the process — open the box, check the parts, keep the screws organized, and slowly stack up the progress.