The Toyota GT86, also known as the Subaru BRZ, has been a topic of discussion among car enthusiasts for its sleek design, agile handling, and rear-wheel drive capability. However, when it comes to speed, the question remains: is the GT86 fast? In this article, we will delve into the world of the GT86, exploring its performance capabilities, engine specifications, and handling features to provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
Introduction to the GT86
The GT86 is a sports car that was first introduced in 2012 as a collaborative project between Toyota and Subaru. It was designed to be a lightweight, rear-wheel drive vehicle that would provide drivers with a thrilling driving experience. With its sleek and aerodynamic design, the GT86 has become a favorite among car enthusiasts who value handling and agility over outright speed. However, this does not necessarily mean that the GT86 is slow. In fact, the GT86 has a top speed of 140 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, making it a respectable performer in its class.
Engine Specifications
The GT86 is powered by a 2.0-liter boxer engine, which is a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that provides a unique sound and smooth power delivery. The engine produces 197 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 6,400 rpm, making it an ideal powerplant for a lightweight sports car. While the engine may not be the most powerful in its class, it is designed to provide a responsive and engaging driving experience.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The GT86 comes with a six-speed manual transmission, which is designed to provide smooth and precise shifting. The transmission is paired with a rear-wheel drive system, which provides the GT86 with its signature handling characteristics. The rear-wheel drive system allows the driver to control the vehicle’s trajectory with ease, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads and track days.
Performance Capabilities
So, is the GT86 fast? The answer depends on how you define speed. While the GT86 may not be the fastest car in a straight line, it is incredibly agile and responsive, making it a blast to drive on winding roads and track days. The GT86’s lightweight design and rear-wheel drive system make it a handling machine, allowing drivers to push the limits of the vehicle with confidence.
In terms of acceleration, the GT86 can go from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is respectable for a car in its class. However, it’s not just about the numbers – the GT86’s acceleration is smooth and linear, making it a joy to drive. The GT86’s engine is also incredibly responsive, providing a direct connection between the driver’s right foot and the rear wheels.
Handling and Suspension
The GT86’s handling is one of its strongest assets, with a suspension system that is designed to provide a balance between comfort and agility. The suspension is comprised of MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear, which provides a smooth ride and responsive handling. The GT86 also features a limited-slip differential, which helps to distribute power to the rear wheels and provides additional traction.
Aerodynamics and Downforce
The GT86’s aerodynamic design is also worthy of note, with a sleek and streamlined body that provides a low drag coefficient. The GT86’s aerodynamic design helps to reduce wind resistance, making it more stable at high speeds. The GT86 also features a rear spoiler, which provides additional downforce and helps to improve handling.
Comparison to Other Sports Cars
So, how does the GT86 stack up against other sports cars in its class? The GT86’s main competitors include the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Nissan 370Z, and the Ford Mustang. While these cars may have more powerful engines, the GT86’s lightweight design and rear-wheel drive system make it a unique and compelling alternative.
In terms of acceleration, the GT86 is comparable to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, with both cars able to go from 0-60 mph in around 6 seconds. However, the GT86’s handling and suspension make it a more capable and engaging driver’s car. The GT86 is also more fuel-efficient than its competitors, with an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
| Car | 0-60 mph | Top Speed | Engine Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| GT86 | 6.4 seconds | 140 mph | 197 horsepower |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | 5.7 seconds | 135 mph | 181 horsepower |
| Nissan 370Z | 4.8 seconds | 155 mph | 332 horsepower |
| Ford Mustang | 4.3 seconds | 155 mph | 460 horsepower |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GT86 is a unique and compelling sports car that offers a driving experience that is hard to match. While it may not be the fastest car in a straight line, its agile handling, responsive engine, and rear-wheel drive system make it a blast to drive on winding roads and track days. With its sleek design, aerodynamic features, and lightweight construction, the GT86 is a car that is sure to put a smile on your face. So, is the GT86 fast? The answer is yes, but it’s not just about the numbers – it’s about the driving experience.
What is the GT86 and how does it stand out from other sports cars?
The GT86 is a rear-wheel drive sports car that was jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. It is known for its lightweight body, agile handling, and rear-wheel drive layout, making it a unique offering in the market. The GT86 is designed to provide a pure driving experience, with a focus on handling and responsiveness rather than outright power. This approach has resonated with driving enthusiasts, who appreciate the car’s ability to deliver a thrilling driving experience on both the road and the track.
The GT86’s design and engineering are heavily influenced by Toyota’s rich motorsport heritage, and it shows in the car’s performance and handling. With a curb weight of just over 2,700 pounds and a near-perfect weight distribution, the GT86 is incredibly agile and responsive to driver input. The car’s suspension and steering are also tuned to provide a high level of feedback and precision, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads or at the limit on a track. Overall, the GT86 is a sports car that is designed to deliver a driving experience that is both exciting and rewarding.
What are the key features of the GT86’s engine and transmission?
The GT86 is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine that produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which is the only transmission option available. The engine and transmission are designed to work together seamlessly, providing a smooth and responsive power delivery that is well-suited to the car’s rear-wheel drive layout. The engine’s high-revving nature and the transmission’s precise shifting also make it a joy to drive on the track or on twisty roads.
The GT86’s engine and transmission are also notable for their simplicity and reliability. With no turbochargers or complex electronics to worry about, the engine and transmission are relatively low-maintenance and easy to work on. This makes the GT86 an attractive option for driving enthusiasts who want a sports car that they can drive hard without worrying about reliability or maintenance costs. Additionally, the GT86’s engine and transmission are also well-suited to modification, making it a popular choice for tuners and aftermarket enthusiasts.
How does the GT86 handle and what are its strengths and weaknesses?
The GT86 is widely regarded as one of the best-handling sports cars on the market, with a reputation for being incredibly agile and responsive to driver input. The car’s rear-wheel drive layout, combined with its near-perfect weight distribution and precisely tuned suspension, make it a joy to drive on twisty roads or at the limit on a track. The GT86 is also notable for its ability to rotate and pivot around a corner, making it a highly rewarding car to drive for experienced drivers.
However, the GT86’s handling is not without its weaknesses. The car’s lack of grip and traction can make it difficult to drive quickly on low-friction surfaces, and the rear wheels can sometimes struggle to put the power down. Additionally, the GT86’s electronic stability control system can be overly intrusive at times, intervening too aggressively and disrupting the driving experience. Overall, the GT86’s handling is highly dependent on the driver’s skill level and the conditions, making it a car that requires a high level of driver involvement and attention.
What are the GT86’s performance numbers and how does it compare to other sports cars?
The GT86 has a top speed of 140 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. While these numbers may not seem particularly impressive compared to other sports cars, the GT86’s performance is highly dependent on the driver’s skill level and the conditions. The car’s agility and responsiveness make it highly capable on twisty roads or at the limit on a track, and it is often faster than more powerful cars in the right hands.
In comparison to other sports cars, the GT86 is often benchmarked against the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Subaru BRZ. While these cars have similar performance numbers to the GT86, they have distinct personalities and strengths. The MX-5 Miata is known for its agility and responsiveness, while the BRZ is notable for its affordability and simplicity. The GT86, on the other hand, is often praised for its balance and poise, making it a highly rewarding car to drive for enthusiasts.
What are the GT86’s interior and exterior design features?
The GT86 has a simple and functional interior design that is focused on providing a driving-oriented experience. The car’s dashboard and controls are laid out in a logical and intuitive manner, with a focus on providing easy access to the car’s various systems and functions. The GT86 also features a number of premium materials and trim options, including leather and Alcantara, which add to the car’s upscale feel. On the outside, the GT86 has a sleek and aggressive design that is characterized by its sloping hood, angular lines, and distinctive rear spoiler.
The GT86’s design is also notable for its attention to detail and its focus on functionality. The car’s exterior design features a number of aerodynamic elements, including a front splitter and side skirts, which help to improve downforce and stability at high speeds. The GT86 also features a number of distinctive design cues, including its LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels, which add to the car’s visual appeal. Overall, the GT86’s design is a key part of its appeal, providing a driving experience that is both exciting and rewarding.
What are the GT86’s safety features and how does it perform in crash tests?
The GT86 has a number of standard safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The car also features a number of advanced safety systems, including a rearview camera and blind spot monitoring. In crash tests, the GT86 has performed well, earning a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The GT86’s safety features are also notable for their simplicity and effectiveness. The car’s safety systems are designed to work together seamlessly, providing a high level of protection for occupants in the event of a crash. The GT86’s strong body structure and advanced airbag system also help to absorb and distribute the forces of a crash, reducing the risk of injury to occupants. Overall, the GT86’s safety features and crash test performance make it a highly appealing option for driving enthusiasts who want a sports car that is both exciting and safe.
What are the GT86’s maintenance and ownership costs?
The GT86 has relatively low maintenance and ownership costs compared to other sports cars. The car’s simple and reliable engine and transmission make it easy to work on and maintain, and the GT86’s parts are generally affordable and widely available. The car’s fuel economy is also relatively good, with an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. However, the GT86’s ownership costs can be higher than some other cars due to its premium tires and brakes, which can be expensive to replace.
The GT86’s maintenance costs are also notable for their predictability and simplicity. The car’s scheduled maintenance is relatively straightforward, with most services consisting of routine oil changes and tire rotations. The GT86’s reliability is also highly regarded, with many owners reporting low maintenance costs and few mechanical issues over the life of the car. Overall, the GT86’s maintenance and ownership costs make it a highly appealing option for driving enthusiasts who want a sports car that is both exciting and affordable.