Introduction
    When it was introduced in the mid eighties, it took everyone by surprise. This was the Japanese first attempt at a Mid Ship sports car. It's angular styling and diminutive size made the car look futuristic at the time. The twin cam 4AGE carried over from the Corolla AE86 was the most advanced 4 cylinder of it's time. Light weight, rigid chassis, good balance, and exceptional response made it a revolutionary and much loved sports car.

The Car
    Small on the outside, big on the inside is true of the AW11. Its interior is surprisingly roomy. Feeling larger than that of it's successor the SW20. Chassis low driving position does not limit vision because of the low nose and big wind shield. All essential controls are well placed. The high shifter is a defining characteristic of both SW and AW.
    The 16 valve engine provides 112hp and 97lbs ft of torque. Although not over powering, the engine's highlight is it's responsiveness just like everything else in the car. Later aa supercharged model had a supercharged version of the 4AGE, with compression lowered to 8:1 and producing 145hp and 140lbs of torque. The supercharger increased low engine torque substantially, while retaining it's high revving nature. In fact the acceleration of the SC model feels more like a V6 powered car.

Driving
    Responsiveness the is best word to describe this car. Steering is quick and the level of steering wheel feed back can only be from a mid ship car. The car changes directions quickly and accurately. Slight understeer on entry is what you would expect and the oversteer is very correctable with the throttle, although large yaw angles will not result in faster lap times. There is a feeling of the AW being under powered on straight lines, but the joy in driving this car is not in the straight-line speed but in handling and controllability. On curvy roads the car feels right at home. Applying throttle too early will not get you in too much trouble, but it will push under. The standard tires are a little under sized, even in this little car. A change to bigger 195s really helps the handling.

Opinion
    Many people that own the NA complain about the lack of power. You have to realize that the car was designed almost 20 years ago. Power is low, but on a nice mountain road, not many cars can give you the light weight feeling of the AW11. Along with the AE86, the AW11 is one of the best cars for beginners. It is one of the most balanced Mid-engined cars around, but if you are not careful, it will still spin on you. Easy enough for beginners, but still tons of fun for some more advanced drivers. After more than 15 years, still one of the best.