At 87 years young, Herb Stern isn’t just any car owner; he’s a shining light on the enduring love affair between man and machine. Recently, this San Diego native and Army veteran decided to shake things up by purchasing a 2025 Toyota GR Corolla, marking a significant departure from his illustrious history of two-door sports cars.
Stern’s journey in the automotive world began in 1953 with a humble 1931 Ford Model A Coupe, purchased for a mere $75. Over the decades, his garage has hosted a parade of classics, including MGs, Triumphs, and even an Audi TT. Yet, he had steadfastly avoided four-door sedans, planning to live out his days with a mantra for the ages: “He never owned a four-door” – a phrase he chuckles about now as he shares his latest acquisition in the 2023+ Toyota GR Corolla Group on Facebook, igniting a wave of admiration from fellow enthusiasts.
The reaction? A digital standing ovation, where comments like “I wanna be you when I grow up!” and “Hands down the coolest 87-year-old around” highlight the delight and surprise of his peers. His announcement even inspired other senior drivers to share their stories, effectively turning a car purchase into an intergenerational celebration of automotive passion.
Having transitioned from a Toyota GR Supra (a car he described as “the best combination [he] could think of”) due to its reliability and performance, to the GR Corolla, Stern’s choice reflects a desire for practicality without sacrificing fun. “What can I buy that still would be fun?” he pondered, while explaining his need for a vehicle that could handle day-to-day errands like a Costco run with ease. “With what little experience I’ve had with it, it’s been fun,” he added, admitting to struggles during the break-in period of his new hot hatch because it “loves to rev”.
The 2025 GR Corolla brings modern enhancements to the classic hot hatch feel, featuring a new 8-speed automatic transmission, perfect for those who, like Stern, appreciate a little extra convenience in their spirited driving. With its turbocharged 1.6-litre engine pumping out 295 lb-ft of torque (400Nm) and a robust all-wheel-drive system, it promises a delightful mix of rally-inspired performance and everyday usability.
Moreover, Herb provides a vivid snapshot of enthusiasm that resonates across generations. He recounts how his love for cars was sparked by vintage automobile books showcasing the European scene, which he couldn’t resist. Even after countless vehicles traversing the decades, one thing remains clear: age is but a number when it comes to the joy of driving.
In Herb Stern’s case, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of a lifelong passion, a bridge connecting the youthful thrill of driving to the seasoned wisdom of experience. As he humorously reflects on revising his tombstone statement, one thing is certain: this spirited octogenarian is far from done with adventure behind the wheel. So let’s raise a (non-alcoholic) glass to Herb, proving that age doesn’t dictate passion, and who says you can’t be a car enthusiast at any age?
We drove the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla, and here’s what we thought!
