Update to my previous post where I spent a few days to dig up the parts for this set I got in the late 80s or early 90s from my parents.
It was super fun to build because of the challenge; there are only 24 steps in its construction. So many of the steps are multi part where you need to look at the picture and figure it out. I made a few mistakes and had to back track.
The car has working steering, 3 gear transmission and neutral, an engine with working pistons as you push it around, adjustable seats, headlights that flip up and down, and independent suspension!
Fun times. My family is marveling at it, and my boys love how different it is to modern technics.
Highly recommend trying to get your hands on one to put together.
It was a pleasure to build, so I'm looking to buy the 8860 test car chassis now that I'm aware of it. Hopefully prices are reasonable, especially since I don't need box or instructions - I just want to build and see the set IRL!