The Toyota Supra. Just the name conjures images of sleek lines, roaring engines, and pulse-pounding acceleration. But beyond the iconic status and cultural significance, the fundamental question remains: Are Toyota Supras fast? This article delves deep into the speed and performance capabilities of various Supra generations, dissecting engine specifications, analyzing track times, and comparing them to competitors to determine just how quick this Japanese sports car truly is.
A Legacy of Speed: Supra Through the Generations
The Supra’s story began as a derivative of the Toyota Celica, but it quickly evolved into its own distinct entity, carving a reputation for performance and tuning potential. Let’s examine how each generation contributed to the Supra’s “fast” persona.
The Early Years: Celica Supra (Mark I & II)
The first two generations, known as the Celica Supra, were more grand tourers than outright sports cars. While they offered inline-six engines, their performance was respectable for their time but didn’t set any speed records. They were reliable and comfortable, laying the foundation for the Supra’s future. These early models prioritized a balance of comfort and performance rather than focusing solely on raw speed. Their focus was on refinement, not outright velocity.
The Turbocharged Revolution: Supra Mark III (A70)
The third-generation Supra, the A70, marked a turning point. It shed the Celica name and embraced a more aggressive design. Crucially, it introduced turbocharged engines. The 7M-GTE engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six, boosted power significantly, making the A70 a legitimate contender in the sports car market. The turbocharger dramatically increased horsepower, ushering in a new era of performance for the Supra. It offered improved acceleration and a higher top speed compared to its predecessors.
The Icon is Born: Supra Mark IV (A80)
The fourth-generation Supra, the A80, is arguably the most iconic. Its curvaceous design and, more importantly, its legendary 2JZ-GTE engine, solidified its place in automotive history. This 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six was a powerhouse, producing 276 horsepower in Japan (due to gentleman’s agreement) and 320 horsepower in export markets. But the true potential of the 2JZ-GTE lay in its ability to handle massive amounts of power with relatively simple modifications. This made it a favorite among tuners and drag racers. The A80 Supra is synonymous with speed, thanks to its potent engine and immense tuning potential.
The Modern Interpretation: Supra Mark V (A90)
After a long hiatus, the Supra returned in 2019 as the A90, a collaboration with BMW. This new Supra utilizes a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine (B58) and shares its platform with the BMW Z4. While some purists initially criticized this partnership, the A90 delivers impressive performance figures. Later models boast even more power and refinement, making it a capable modern sports car. The A90 Supra blends modern technology with the Supra spirit, offering impressive performance in a contemporary package.
Analyzing the Numbers: Acceleration and Top Speed
To truly understand how fast Supras are, let’s examine some performance figures. These figures are estimates and can vary depending on the specific model year, transmission, and testing conditions.
Acceleration Figures
- A70 Supra Turbo: 0-60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds.
- A80 Supra Turbo (Stock): 0-60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds.
- A90 Supra (3.0L): 0-60 mph in approximately 3.9 seconds.
These numbers clearly show the progression of speed throughout the Supra’s history. The A90’s impressive acceleration showcases the advancements in engine technology and performance engineering.
Top Speed Figures
- A70 Supra Turbo: Approximately 150 mph (electronically limited).
- A80 Supra Turbo: Approximately 155 mph (electronically limited).
- A90 Supra (3.0L): Approximately 155 mph (electronically limited).
The electronic speed limiters are common in many modern sports cars, including the Supra. Removing the limiter allows the car to reach its true top speed, which is often higher than the limited figure.
The Tuning Factor: Unleashing Untapped Potential
One of the most significant aspects of the Supra’s speed is its incredible tuning potential, particularly the A80 model.
The 2JZ-GTE: A Tuner’s Dream
The 2JZ-GTE engine is legendary for its robustness and ability to handle significant power increases. With modifications like upgraded turbochargers, fuel injectors, and engine management systems, tuners can easily extract double, or even triple, the factory horsepower. The 2JZ-GTE’s inherent strength allows for extreme power modifications, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
Examples of Tuned Supras
Numerous examples exist of Supras pushing well over 1000 horsepower. These heavily modified Supras are capable of incredible acceleration and top speeds, often competing in drag racing events. Their performance often rivals or surpasses that of much more expensive supercars. Tuned Supras have become icons in the aftermarket performance scene, demonstrating the engine’s potential.
How Does the Supra Compare? Rivals and Competition
To fully assess the Supra’s speed, it’s essential to compare it to its rivals and competitors from each era.
Contemporaries of the A80 Supra
During the A80 Supra’s production run, it competed with cars like the Mazda RX-7, Nissan 300ZX, and Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4. While these cars also offered performance and style, the Supra’s tuning potential and overall package often gave it an edge. The A80 Supra often outperformed its Japanese rivals in terms of aftermarket tuning potential and overall reliability.
The A90 Supra’s Modern Competition
The A90 Supra faces a new generation of competitors, including the Porsche 718 Cayman, BMW M2, and Nissan Z. These cars offer similar levels of performance and technology. The A90’s blend of BMW engineering and Toyota reliability makes it a compelling choice in this segment. The A90 Supra holds its own against modern rivals, offering a compelling combination of performance and technology.
Beyond Straight-Line Speed: Handling and Overall Performance
While straight-line speed is a crucial aspect of performance, it’s not the only factor. Handling, braking, and overall driving experience also contribute to a car’s perceived speed and capabilities.
Supra’s Handling Characteristics
The A80 Supra is known for its balanced handling and responsive steering. Its double-wishbone suspension provides excellent control and stability, making it a capable track car. The A90 Supra benefits from BMW’s expertise in chassis engineering, offering precise handling and a refined driving experience. Both the A80 and A90 Supras offer excellent handling characteristics, making them fun to drive on both the street and the track.
Braking Performance
Good braking performance is essential for a fast car. Supras typically feature powerful braking systems that provide ample stopping power. Upgraded brake components are often among the first modifications made by tuners seeking even better performance. Effective braking systems are crucial for both safety and performance, and Supras are generally well-equipped in this area.
Conclusion: The Verdict on Supra’s Speed
So, are Toyota Supras fast? The answer is a resounding yes. From the turbocharged A70 to the legendary A80 and the modern A90, each generation has offered impressive performance capabilities. The A80 Supra, in particular, stands out due to its immense tuning potential, allowing it to achieve truly mind-blowing levels of speed. While straight-line acceleration and top speed are important, the Supra’s balanced handling and overall driving experience further contribute to its reputation as a fast and capable sports car. Whether you’re looking for a classic tuner car or a modern performance machine, the Toyota Supra delivers on its promise of speed and excitement. The Supra’s legacy as a performance icon is well-deserved, cemented by its impressive performance figures, tuning potential, and overall driving experience.
Are all Toyota Supras fast?
All generations of the Toyota Supra are renowned for their performance capabilities, but the fourth generation (A80, produced from 1993-2002) is particularly celebrated for its speed potential. The turbocharged 2JZ-GTE engine in the A80 Supra is incredibly robust and responsive to modifications, allowing tuners to extract significant horsepower gains. Even in its stock form, the A80 Supra offered impressive acceleration and top speed, solidifying its place as a performance icon.
However, earlier generations, while not as inherently potent as the A80, still offered respectable performance for their time. The first three generations (A40, A60, and A70) featured inline-six engines that provided a good balance of power and reliability. While these models might not match the outright speed of modern sports cars or the A80 Supra, they still offer a fun and engaging driving experience, contributing to the Supra’s legacy as a performance vehicle.
What is the top speed of a stock Toyota Supra (A80)?
The top speed of a stock Toyota Supra A80 (fourth generation) is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) in most markets. This limitation was a gentlemen’s agreement among Japanese automakers to restrict top speeds for safety reasons. Without this limiter, the stock Supra A80 is capable of reaching significantly higher speeds.
Independent testing and anecdotal evidence suggest that an un-restricted stock Supra A80 could potentially reach top speeds in excess of 170 mph (274 km/h), depending on factors such as road conditions and aerodynamics. The inherent power and aerodynamic design of the car allow it to achieve impressive velocities when not constrained by electronic limitations.
How fast is the 2020+ Toyota Supra (A90/A91)?
The 2020 and later Toyota Supra (A90/A91) is equipped with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, both sourced from BMW. The 3.0-liter variant is particularly noteworthy, offering impressive acceleration and overall performance. Its official 0-60 mph time is around 3.9 seconds.
Like many modern sports cars, the 2020+ Supra’s top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). However, its acceleration and handling characteristics make it a very capable performance car. The combination of a powerful engine and modern technology allows for an exhilarating driving experience.
Can a Toyota Supra be modified for even faster speeds?
Absolutely, the Toyota Supra, especially the A80 generation, is renowned for its tuning potential. The robust 2JZ-GTE engine can handle significant power increases with relatively minor modifications. Upgrading the turbochargers, fuel system, and engine management system can unlock substantial horsepower gains.
Many aftermarket companies offer a wide range of performance parts specifically designed for the Supra. With the right modifications, a Supra can be transformed into a truly high-performance machine, capable of challenging even the most exotic supercars. Many modified Supras boast horsepower figures well exceeding 500, 800, or even 1000 horsepower, allowing for incredible acceleration and top speeds.
What makes the Toyota Supra so popular among car enthusiasts?
The Toyota Supra’s popularity stems from a combination of factors, including its iconic design, impressive performance capabilities, and its legendary status in popular culture. The A80 Supra, in particular, became a symbol of automotive excellence, largely due to its presence in movies like “The Fast and the Furious.” This exposure cemented its place in the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
Beyond its cultural impact, the Supra’s reliability and tuning potential are also major contributors to its enduring appeal. The robust 2JZ engine is known for its durability and its ability to withstand significant modifications, making it a favorite among tuners and performance enthusiasts. This combination of factors has made the Toyota Supra a highly sought-after and respected sports car.
How does the Toyota Supra compare to other sports cars in terms of speed?
The Toyota Supra, particularly the A80 model, holds its own against many other contemporary sports cars in terms of speed and performance. In its stock form, the turbocharged Supra A80 was comparable to cars like the Porsche 911 and Nissan 300ZX Turbo. The 2020+ Supra is also competitive, offering similar performance figures to the BMW Z4 M40i (which shares its platform).
When modified, the Supra’s potential is even more impressive. With relatively simple upgrades, a Supra can outperform many higher-end sports cars. Its ability to handle significant horsepower increases allows it to compete with vehicles costing significantly more, making it a popular choice for those seeking maximum performance for their money.
Is the Toyota Supra a good investment?
Generally, yes, the Toyota Supra, particularly the A80 generation, is considered a good investment. Its value has steadily increased over the years, driven by its iconic status, limited production numbers, and the increasing demand from collectors and enthusiasts. Well-maintained, low-mileage examples of the A80 Supra can command very high prices.
The 2020+ Supra is still relatively new, so its long-term investment potential is yet to be fully determined. However, given the Supra nameplate’s history and the car’s overall performance, it is likely to hold its value well. Limited edition models and well-maintained examples of the A90/A91 Supra could also appreciate in value over time, making them a potentially worthwhile investment.