The automotive world is filled with fascinating stories, and one of the most intriguing tales revolves around the Toyota Supra and the Toyota 86. These two cars have garnered immense attention and admiration from car enthusiasts worldwide, leading to a common question: are the Supra and 86 the same? In this article, we will delve into the history, design, and specifications of both models to uncover the truth behind their similarities and differences.
Introduction to the Toyota Supra and 86
The Toyota Supra is a legendary sports car that has been in production since 1978, with a brief hiatus from 1998 to 2019. It is known for its powerful engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and sleek design. On the other hand, the Toyota 86, also known as the Subaru BRZ, is a rear-wheel drive sports car that was first introduced in 2012. It is praised for its agile handling, lightweight body, and affordable price tag.
Design and Aerodynamics
When it comes to design, the Supra and 86 have distinct characteristics. The Supra features a muscular and sleek body, with a long hood and a short rear deck. Its design is inspired by the FT-1 concept car, which was unveiled in 2014. The 86, on the other hand, has a more subtle and curvaceous design, with a lower profile and a greater emphasis on aerodynamics. The 86’s design is shaped by its low center of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution, which contribute to its exceptional handling capabilities.
Aerodynamic Features
Both cars feature aerodynamic enhancements to improve their performance and stability. The Supra boasts a large rear spoiler, side skirts, and a diffuser to reduce drag and enhance downforce. The 86, meanwhile, features a revised front bumper, side sills, and a redued rear diffuser to minimize drag and optimize airflow.
Engine and Performance
The engine is a critical component of any car, and the Supra and 86 have different powertrains. The Supra is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, which produces 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine is turbocharged and features a 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. The 86, on the other hand, features a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, which produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The 86’s engine is naturally aspirated and is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Handling and Suspension
The handling and suspension of a car are crucial for its overall performance and driving experience. The Supra features a double-wishbone suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear, which provides excellent stability and control. The 86, meanwhile, boasts a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a double-wishbone suspension in the rear, which delivers outstanding agility and responsiveness.
Braking and Safety Features
Both cars are equipped with advanced braking systems and safety features. The Supra features 13.7-inch vented disc brakes in the front and 13.6-inch vented disc brakes in the rear, as well as a range of safety features, including electronic stability control, traction control, and seven airbags. The 86, meanwhile, features 11.6-inch vented disc brakes in the front and 11.4-inch solid disc brakes in the rear, along with a range of safety features, including electronic stability control, traction control, and six airbags.
Comparison and Contrast
Now that we have explored the design, engine, and performance of the Supra and 86, let’s compare and contrast these two cars. The Supra is a more powerful and luxurious sports car, with a higher price tag and a greater emphasis on comfort and technology. The 86, on the other hand, is a more agile and affordable sports car, with a greater emphasis on handling and driving experience.
The main differences between the Supra and 86 can be summarized in the following table:
| Feature | Toyota Supra | Toyota 86 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six | 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer |
| Horsepower | 382 horsepower | 205 horsepower |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Price | Around $50,000 | Around $27,000 |
In conclusion, while the Toyota Supra and 86 share some similarities, they are distinct cars with different design languages, engines, and performance characteristics. The Supra is a more powerful and luxurious sports car, while the 86 is a more agile and affordable sports car. Whether you prioritize comfort, technology, and power or handling, driving experience, and affordability, there’s a Toyota sports car that’s right for you.
As we’ve explored the intricacies of these two cars, it’s clear that the question of whether the Supra and 86 are the same is a resounding no. Each car has its unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different driving preferences and needs. By understanding and appreciating these differences, car enthusiasts can make informed decisions and enjoy the perfect driving experience tailored to their desires.
What is the relationship between Supra and 86?
The relationship between Supra and 86 is rooted in their shared platform and development history. Both cars were developed by Toyota, with the Supra being a sports car and the 86 being a more affordable and accessible sports coupe. They share many similarities in terms of design, engineering, and performance capabilities. The 86 was first introduced in 2012, and it was designed to be a more stripped-down and lightweight version of the Supra, focusing on handling and agility rather than raw power.
The connection between the two cars is more than just superficial, as they share a common DNA in terms of their rear-wheel-drive layout, rev-happy engines, and emphasis on driver engagement. While the Supra is generally more powerful and luxurious, the 86 is more focused on delivering a pure driving experience, with a lower center of gravity and more agile handling. Despite their differences, both cars have gained a loyal following among driving enthusiasts, and they are often compared and contrasted in terms of their performance, handling, and overall driving experience. By understanding the relationship between Supra and 86, drivers can appreciate the unique strengths and weaknesses of each car and make informed decisions about which one is right for them.
Are Supra and 86 the same car with different badges?
While Supra and 86 share many similarities, they are not the same car with different badges. The Supra is a more powerful and luxurious sports car, with a turbocharged inline-6 engine producing over 300 horsepower, while the 86 has a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine producing around 200 horsepower. The Supra also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, while the 86 is rear-wheel-drive only. Additionally, the Supra has a more premium interior, with features like heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
However, it’s also important to note that the Supra and 86 do share many common components, including their engines, transmissions, and suspension systems. The 86’s engine, for example, is essentially a de-tuned version of the Supra’s engine, and the two cars share many of the same suspension components. This has led some to accuse Toyota of simply rebadging the same car, but the reality is more nuanced. While the Supra and 86 do share many similarities, they also have distinct personalities and design philosophies, reflecting their different target markets and use cases. By understanding these differences, drivers can appreciate the unique strengths and weaknesses of each car.
What are the main differences between Supra and 86 in terms of performance?
The main differences between Supra and 86 in terms of performance are centered around their engines, transmissions, and drivetrain layouts. The Supra has a more powerful turbocharged engine, producing over 300 horsepower, while the 86 has a naturally aspirated engine producing around 200 horsepower. The Supra also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, which provides better traction and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions. Additionally, the Supra has a more sophisticated suspension system, with adaptive dampers and a limited-slip differential, which helps to improve handling and cornering performance.
In contrast, the 86 is more focused on delivering a pure driving experience, with a lighter curb weight, a more agile chassis, and a more rev-happy engine. The 86’s engine may not be as powerful as the Supra’s, but it is more responsive and engaging, with a higher redline and a more linear power delivery. The 86 also has a more direct and communicative steering system, which provides better feedback and control, especially on twisty roads or at the track. Overall, while the Supra is generally faster and more capable, the 86 is more focused on delivering a fun and engaging driving experience, making it a great choice for driving enthusiasts who value handling and agility over raw power.
Can I modify my 86 to make it as fast as a Supra?
While it is possible to modify an 86 to improve its performance, making it as fast as a Supra is a more complex and challenging task. The 86’s engine, for example, can be tuned and upgraded to produce more power, but it will never match the Supra’s turbocharged engine in terms of outright performance. Additionally, the 86’s transmission and drivetrain layout are designed for a more lightweight and agile car, and may not be able to handle the increased power and torque of a heavily modified engine.
However, there are many modification options available for the 86, including engine tunes, suspension upgrades, and aerodynamic modifications, which can help to improve its performance and handling. Many owners have successfully modified their 86s to produce over 250 horsepower, and with the right combination of upgrades, it is possible to make an 86 that is nearly as fast as a Supra. Nevertheless, it’s essential to approach modifications with caution and to carefully consider the potential risks and consequences, including the impact on reliability, durability, and safety. It’s also important to work with experienced tuners and mechanics who understand the complexities of the 86’s engine and drivetrain.
Which car is better for track driving, Supra or 86?
The 86 is generally considered to be the better car for track driving, thanks to its lighter weight, more agile chassis, and more responsive handling. The 86’s rear-wheel-drive layout and limited-slip differential make it well-suited for track driving, and its more direct and communicative steering system provides better feedback and control. Additionally, the 86’s more compact size and lower center of gravity make it easier to handle and more forgiving, especially for less experienced drivers.
However, the Supra is also a capable track car, especially with the right modifications and setup. The Supra’s more powerful engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system provide better traction and stability, especially in high-speed corners or under heavy braking. Additionally, the Supra’s more sophisticated suspension system and adaptive dampers help to improve handling and cornering performance, making it a great choice for more experienced drivers who want to push the limits of their car. Ultimately, the choice between Supra and 86 for track driving will depend on personal preference, driving style, and the specific requirements of the track.
Are Supra and 86 reliable and durable cars?
Both Supra and 86 are considered to be reliable and durable cars, with a reputation for withstanding the rigors of daily driving and track use. The 86, in particular, has a reputation for being extremely reliable, with many owners reporting high mileage without major issues. The Supra, while more complex and sophisticated, also has a good reliability record, with many owners praising its durability and low maintenance costs. However, as with any car, regular maintenance and proper care are essential to ensuring the long-term reliability and durability of both Supra and 86.
In terms of durability, both cars have been designed to withstand the stresses of high-performance driving, with robust engines, transmissions, and suspension systems. The 86’s engine, for example, is designed to rev high and handle the stresses of track driving, while the Supra’s engine is built to handle the increased power and torque of its turbocharged system. Additionally, both cars have been tested extensively in extreme conditions, including high temperatures, high altitudes, and heavy rainfall, to ensure their reliability and durability in a wide range of driving conditions. By following proper maintenance schedules and driving habits, owners can help to ensure the long-term reliability and durability of their Supra or 86.
Can I daily drive a Supra or 86 without issues?
Both Supra and 86 can be daily driven without issues, but they do require some special consideration and care. The 86, in particular, is a great daily driver, thanks to its compact size, easy handling, and relatively low running costs. The Supra, while more powerful and luxurious, is also a viable daily driver, but it may require more frequent fuel stops and more expensive maintenance. Additionally, both cars have relatively small trunk spaces and tight rear seats, which may limit their practicality for some owners.
However, for driving enthusiasts who value performance and handling, both Supra and 86 can make great daily drivers. The 86’s rev-happy engine and agile handling make it a joy to drive on twisty roads or in city traffic, while the Supra’s powerful engine and advanced all-wheel-drive system provide better traction and stability in inclement weather conditions. By carefully considering their needs and priorities, owners can daily drive a Supra or 86 without issues, and enjoy the benefits of a high-performance car in their daily lives. Additionally, many owners have reported that the unique characteristics and quirks of these cars become endearing and enjoyable over time, making them a great choice for those who value driving excitement and engagement.