The Toyota 86 GT, a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, has been a topic of interest among car enthusiasts and speed lovers alike since its introduction. With its sleek design, rear-wheel drive layout, and sport-tuned suspension, the question on everyone’s mind is: Is the Toyota 86 GT fast? In this article, we will delve into the performance capabilities of the Toyota 86 GT, exploring its engine, transmission, acceleration, and handling to provide a detailed answer to this burning question.
Introduction to the Toyota 86 GT
The Toyota 86 GT, also known as the Subaru BRZ in some markets, is a sports car designed to deliver driving pleasure and excitement. It is part of a new generation of sports cars that focus on agility, balance, and the pure joy of driving, rather than outright speed. However, this does not mean the Toyota 86 GT lacks in the performance department. On the contrary, it is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque in most markets, though these figures can vary slightly depending on the region and model year.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Toyota 86 GT is its boxer engine, which provides a unique sound and feel to the driving experience. The engine’s design allows for a lower center of gravity, which enhances the car’s handling and stability. While the horsepower and torque figures might not seem overly impressive compared to other sports cars in the market, the Toyota 86 GT’s performance is more about driving dynamics and handling than about raw power. Its rear-wheel drive configuration and delicate balance make it a favorite among those who enjoy precise control and the satisfaction of mastering a corner.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The Toyota 86 GT comes with a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions. The manual transmission is particularly praised for its smooth shifting and short throws, making it a joy to drive on winding roads or at the track. The automatic, while not as engaging for the driving enthusiast, provides convenient and smooth gear changes for everyday driving. The drivetrain is designed to send all the power to the rear wheels, enhancing the car’s sporty feel and appeal.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The acceleration of the Toyota 86 GT is where the conversation about its speed begins. With its manual transmission, the Toyota 86 GT can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds, which is respectable for a car in its class. The top speed is electronically limited to 140 mph, though the car is capable of going faster. However, the focus of the Toyota 86 GT is not about reaching high speeds on the straight but about enjoying the drive on twisty roads or on a track.
Handling and Agility
Where the Toyota 86 GT truly shines is in its handling. Its rear-wheel drive layout, combined with its limited-slip differential, allows for precise control and excellent traction. The car’s balance and response to driver input make it highly engaging and rewarding to drive, especially for those who appreciate the art of driving. Whether on a mountainside road or at a racing circuit, the Toyota 86 GT’s handling capabilities make it a lot of fun to push to its limits.
Tuning and Modification
For those who find the stock performance of the Toyota 86 GT not quite enough, there is a thriving aftermarket and tuning scene. Owners can modify their vehicles with performance parts such as exhaust systems, air intakes, and coilovers to enhance power output and handling. However, it’s worth noting that such modifications can alter the car’s dynamics and may void the warranty, so they should be approached with caution and a clear understanding of their implications.
Conclusion
So, is the Toyota 86 GT fast? The answer depends on how one defines “fast.” While it may not accelerate as quickly as some of its more powerful counterparts, the Toyota 86 GT offers a unique blend of handling, agility, and driving pleasure that makes it stand out in its class. For drivers who value the joy of driving over outright speed, the Toyota 86 GT is an excellent choice. Its performance, combined with its affordable price and rear-wheel drive dynamics, makes it a compelling option for both new and experienced drivers looking to enjoy the road or the track.
In terms of what to expect from the Toyota 86 GT in terms of speed and performance, here is a brief summary:
- Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds with the manual transmission.
- A top speed electronically limited to 140 mph.
- Handling and agility that are among the best in its class, making it highly enjoyable to drive on twisty roads or at the track.
Overall, the Toyota 86 GT is a remarkable car that, while not the fastest in a straight line, offers an unparalleled driving experience that focuses on the connection between the driver, the car, and the road. Its unique blend of style, handling, and performance makes it a must-consider for anyone looking for a sports car that is as much about the journey as the destination.
What is the Toyota 86 GT and how does it differ from the standard Toyota 86?
The Toyota 86 GT is a high-performance variant of the Toyota 86, a rear-wheel drive sports car that has gained a cult following worldwide. The GT model offers several upgrades over the standard Toyota 86, including a more aggressive exterior design, unique interior trim, and enhanced suspension tuning. These upgrades are designed to improve the car’s handling and stability, making it more suitable for track driving and spirited performance.
The Toyota 86 GT also features a number of premium amenities, such as heated seats, a premium audio system, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Additionally, the GT model comes with a range of safety features, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring. Overall, the Toyota 86 GT is designed to offer a more refined and performance-oriented driving experience, while still maintaining the affordability and reliability that the Toyota brand is known for. With its unique blend of style, performance, and features, the Toyota 86 GT is an attractive option for driving enthusiasts who want a fun and engaging vehicle.
What are the key performance features of the Toyota 86 GT?
The Toyota 86 GT is powered by a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, which produces 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which features a short-throw shifter and a limited-slip differential. The car’s rear-wheel drive layout and low center of gravity make it well-suited for track driving and spirited performance, and its precise steering and responsive handling make it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
The Toyota 86 GT also features a range of performance-oriented suspension and braking upgrades, including stiffer springs and dampers, as well as larger brake rotors and more aggressive brake pads. The car’s electronic stability control system has also been re-tuned to allow for more aggressive driving, and its traction control system can be fully disabled for track driving. Overall, the Toyota 86 GT is a highly capable and engaging performance car that is designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
How does the Toyota 86 GT handle on the road?
The Toyota 86 GT is renowned for its exceptional handling and agility, making it a delight to drive on twisty roads and mountain passes. The car’s rear-wheel drive layout and low center of gravity give it a precise and predictable feel, and its responsive steering and balanced chassis make it easy to rotate and control. The Toyota 86 GT is also surprisingly compliant and refined, with a ride that is firm but not harsh, and a level of noise and vibration that is acceptable for a performance car.
On the road, the Toyota 86 GT is a joy to drive, with a level of engagement and involvement that is rare in modern cars. The car’s manual transmission and rear-wheel drive layout make it feel more connected to the road, and its precise steering and responsive handling make it easy to drive quickly and confidently. Whether you’re carving through canyons or cruising on the highway, the Toyota 86 GT is a car that is always ready to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
What are the interior and exterior design features of the Toyota 86 GT?
The Toyota 86 GT features a unique exterior design that sets it apart from the standard Toyota 86. The car’s aggressive front bumper and rear spoiler are designed to improve downforce and reduce drag, and its 18-inch alloy wheels are shod with high-performance tires. The GT model also features a range of premium exterior trim, including LED headlights and fog lights, as well as a distinctive rear diffuser.
Inside, the Toyota 86 GT features a range of premium amenities, including heated seats, a premium audio system, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The car’s interior is trimmed in high-quality materials, including leather and Alcantara, and its sports seats are designed to provide excellent support and comfort. The Toyota 86 GT also features a range of convenience features, including cruise control and keyless entry, making it a comfortable and practical car to live with every day.
What safety features are available on the Toyota 86 GT?
The Toyota 86 GT features a range of advanced safety features, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring. The car’s seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and passenger seat cushion airbag, provide excellent protection in the event of a collision. The Toyota 86 GT also features a range of electronic stability control systems, including traction control and vehicle stability control, which help to prevent skidding and loss of control.
The Toyota 86 GT also features a range of convenience features that enhance safety, including a rearview camera and hill-start assist control. The car’s LED headlights and fog lights provide excellent visibility, and its automatic emergency braking system can help to prevent accidents. Overall, the Toyota 86 GT is a safe and secure car that is designed to protect its occupants in the event of a collision, while also providing a range of features that enhance convenience and comfort.
How does the Toyota 86 GT compare to its rivals in terms of price and performance?
The Toyota 86 GT is priced competitively with its rivals, including the Subaru BRZ and the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The car’s performance is also on par with its rivals, with its 2.0-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission delivering a thrilling driving experience. The Toyota 86 GT’s handling and agility are also exceptional, making it a strong contender in its class.
In terms of value, the Toyota 86 GT is an attractive option for driving enthusiasts who want a fun and engaging vehicle. The car’s premium amenities, including heated seats and a premium audio system, make it a comfortable and practical car to live with every day. The Toyota 86 GT’s reputation for reliability and durability also make it a smart choice for buyers who want a car that will last for many years. Overall, the Toyota 86 GT is a highly competitive car that offers a unique blend of performance, style, and value.