The automotive world is full of debates, none perhaps as spirited as those concerning lineage and legacy. One such argument centers around the Toyota GR86 and its relationship to the legendary Supra. Are they connected beyond a shared badge? Is the GR86 a spiritual successor, a junior sibling, or something entirely different? This article delves into the specifications, history, performance, and market positioning of both vehicles to determine if the GR86 can rightfully claim to be a Supra.
Tracing the Roots: A Look at Toyota’s Performance Car History
To understand the GR86’s place within the Toyota hierarchy, it’s essential to examine the brand’s history of performance vehicles. Toyota has a long and storied past, dating back to the 1960s with the iconic 2000GT. This vehicle set the stage for future sports cars, showcasing Toyota’s ability to produce world-class performance machines. The 2000GT was a limited-production halo car, proving that Toyota could compete with European manufacturers.
The Supra Saga: A Turbocharged Legacy
The Supra nameplate itself originated in 1978 as a derivative of the Toyota Celica. Early Supras, dubbed Celica Supras, featured inline-six engines and a longer wheelbase, distinguishing them from their four-cylinder Celica counterparts. This marked the beginning of the Supra’s journey towards becoming a standalone model.
The true Supra transformation occurred with the A70 generation in 1986. This marked the first Supra that was no longer a Celica derivative. It was its own model with a unique design and identity. The A70 Supra offered potent turbocharged engines and sophisticated technology, establishing the Supra as a serious contender in the sports car market.
The A80 Supra, produced from 1993 to 2002, is perhaps the most iconic. Its sleek design, powerful 2JZ engine (especially the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE), and tuning potential cemented its legendary status. The A80 Supra became a cultural icon, featured in movies, video games, and admired by enthusiasts worldwide. It set a high bar for any future vehicle bearing the Supra name.
The Hiatus: A Void in Toyota’s Sports Car Lineup
After the A80 Supra ceased production, Toyota lacked a true flagship sports car for nearly two decades. While models like the MR2 and Celica continued to offer sporty driving experiences, they couldn’t fill the void left by the Supra. Enthusiasts eagerly awaited a successor, speculating on its design, engine, and performance characteristics.
GR86: A New Generation of Affordable Performance
The Toyota GR86, co-developed with Subaru (as the BRZ), represents a different approach to performance than the Supra. It is a smaller, lighter, and more affordable sports car focused on driving enjoyment and accessibility. The “GR” designation signifies its connection to Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s motorsport division.
Engine and Performance: A Naturally Aspirated Heart
Unlike the turbocharged Supras of the past, the GR86 features a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. This engine delivers a respectable amount of power and torque, prioritizing responsiveness and a linear power delivery. It is not about outright horsepower, but rather about a balanced and engaging driving experience.
The GR86’s performance figures are impressive for its class. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, offering a thrilling experience for enthusiasts. Its light weight and well-tuned chassis contribute to its agility and handling prowess.
Design and Handling: A Focus on Purity
The GR86’s design is modern and sporty, with a low center of gravity and a wide stance. Its compact dimensions make it nimble and easy to maneuver, both on the street and on the track. The interior is driver-focused, with supportive seats and intuitive controls.
The GR86’s handling is one of its greatest strengths. Its responsive steering, precise chassis, and limited-slip differential allow drivers to confidently explore its limits. It is a car that rewards skilled drivers and encourages them to improve their driving abilities.
Comparing the Supra and GR86: Key Differences
While both cars bear the Toyota badge and offer a sporty driving experience, they differ significantly in several key areas. Understanding these differences is crucial in determining whether the GR86 can be considered a “Supra.”
Size and Weight: A Matter of Scale
The Supra is significantly larger and heavier than the GR86. This difference in size and weight affects handling characteristics and overall driving feel. The GR86 is more nimble and agile, while the Supra offers a more planted and stable experience.
Engine and Power: Forced Induction vs. Natural Aspiration
The Supra’s turbocharged inline-six engine delivers significantly more power and torque than the GR86’s naturally aspirated four-cylinder. This difference in power translates to faster acceleration and higher top speeds. The Supra is a more powerful and capable performance car.
Price and Market Positioning: Accessibility vs. Exclusivity
The GR86 is positioned as an affordable and accessible sports car, appealing to a wider range of buyers. The Supra, on the other hand, is more expensive and exclusive, targeting enthusiasts seeking a higher level of performance and luxury. The GR86 aims to be a fun and engaging sports car for the masses, while the Supra is a more premium and aspirational product.
The Supra’s Return: The BMW Connection
The reintroduction of the Supra in 2019 (A90 generation) was met with both excitement and controversy. Developed in collaboration with BMW, the new Supra shares its platform and engine with the BMW Z4. This partnership allowed Toyota to bring back the Supra nameplate while sharing development costs.
Engine and Performance: A German Heart
The A90 Supra is powered by a BMW-sourced turbocharged inline-six engine. This engine delivers impressive performance, with brisk acceleration and a refined driving experience. While some purists criticized the use of a BMW engine, others appreciated its performance and reliability.
Design and Handling: A Blend of Styles
The A90 Supra’s design is a modern interpretation of the classic Supra silhouette, with a long hood, short deck, and distinctive curves. Its handling is precise and responsive, thanks to its well-tuned chassis and adaptive suspension. It offers a blend of Japanese design and German engineering.
So, Is the GR86 a Supra? A Definitive Answer
Ultimately, the answer to the question of whether the GR86 is a Supra is a nuanced one. Technically, the GR86 is not a Supra. It does not share the same engine, platform, or market positioning as the Supra. It is a different car with a different purpose.
However, the GR86 can be considered a spiritual successor to the earlier, more accessible Supras, particularly the Celica Supra models. It embodies the spirit of affordable, fun, and engaging sports car driving that characterized those earlier models. It offers a similar driving experience to the original Supra but in a more modern and accessible package.
The GR86 stands on its own as a fantastic sports car. It shouldn’t be judged solely on whether it lives up to the Supra name. Its strengths lie in its affordability, balanced handling, and pure driving experience. It is a car that is accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts and provides a rewarding experience for drivers of all skill levels.
In conclusion, while the Toyota GR86 is not a Supra in the strictest sense, it embodies the spirit of affordable performance and driver engagement that made the early Supras so appealing. It’s a testament to Toyota’s commitment to sports cars, offering a different but equally enjoyable driving experience. The GR86 is a worthy successor to the sports car legacy, even if it doesn’t carry the Supra name.
Is the Toyota GR86 a successor to the Toyota Supra?
The Toyota GR86 is not a direct successor to the Toyota Supra, despite its sporty coupe design and rear-wheel-drive configuration. The GR86 fills a different niche in Toyota’s sports car lineup, positioned as a more accessible and affordable option. Its lineage traces back to the Toyota AE86 (Corolla GT-S in some markets), emphasizing lightweight agility and driver engagement rather than outright power and grand touring capabilities.
The Supra, particularly the A80 generation, is known for its powerful turbocharged engine and technological sophistication. While the current GR Supra shares its platform and powertrain with the BMW Z4, it’s marketed as a flagship performance model. The GR86, on the other hand, is developed in collaboration with Subaru and prioritizes a balanced driving experience with a focus on handling and connection to the road, making it a distinct model with a different performance philosophy.
What is the connection between the Toyota GR86 and the Subaru BRZ?
The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are essentially the same car, developed under a joint partnership between Toyota and Subaru. Both models share the same platform, engine, and overall design, with only minor cosmetic differences. This collaborative approach allows both companies to offer an affordable and engaging sports car while sharing development costs.
Key differences between the GR86 and BRZ are primarily aesthetic, including slightly different front and rear bumper designs, headlight and taillight details, and badging. Suspension tuning may also vary slightly, though the core driving experience remains remarkably similar. Ultimately, the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference in styling and brand loyalty.
What are the key performance characteristics of the Toyota GR86?
The Toyota GR86 is characterized by its nimble handling, responsive engine, and lightweight construction. Its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine provides a significant power boost compared to the previous generation, offering improved acceleration and torque. The car’s low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension contribute to its exceptional balance and cornering abilities.
The GR86 prioritizes driver engagement and a direct connection to the road. Its precise steering, communicative chassis, and available manual transmission provide an immersive driving experience. While not as powerful as some other sports cars, the GR86’s focus on balance and agility makes it a highly enjoyable and rewarding car to drive, both on the road and on the track.
How does the Toyota GR86 compare to the previous generation Toyota 86 (Scion FR-S)?
The Toyota GR86 represents a significant improvement over the previous generation Toyota 86 (also known as the Scion FR-S in some markets). The most notable upgrade is the larger 2.4-liter engine, which addresses the previous model’s criticism of lacking low-end torque. This results in quicker acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.
Beyond the engine, the GR86 features updated styling, improved interior quality, and enhanced suspension tuning. These changes contribute to a more refined and capable sports car that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. While the original 86 was praised for its handling and affordability, the GR86 elevates the driving experience to a new level.
What does “GR” stand for in the Toyota GR86 name?
The “GR” in the Toyota GR86 name stands for “Gazoo Racing,” Toyota’s global motorsports division. This branding signifies that the car was developed with input from Gazoo Racing’s engineers and incorporates performance-focused design and engineering principles. The GR badge is applied to Toyota’s most performance-oriented vehicles, signaling their connection to the company’s racing heritage.
By associating the GR86 with Gazoo Racing, Toyota aims to convey the car’s sporty credentials and its focus on delivering an engaging and thrilling driving experience. This branding aligns the GR86 with other GR models like the GR Supra and GR Yaris, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to producing exciting and performance-focused vehicles.
What is the price point of the Toyota GR86, and who is its target audience?
The Toyota GR86 is positioned as an affordable sports car, making it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts. Its price point generally falls within the range of other entry-level sports cars, offering a compelling value proposition for those seeking a fun and engaging driving experience without breaking the bank. This affordability makes it an attractive option for younger drivers or those new to the world of sports cars.
The target audience for the GR86 includes driving enthusiasts who prioritize handling, balance, and driver engagement over outright power. It appeals to those who enjoy spirited driving on twisty roads or participating in track days. The GR86’s combination of affordability, performance, and timeless design makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a pure and unfiltered driving experience.
What are some common aftermarket modifications for the Toyota GR86?
The Toyota GR86 is a popular platform for aftermarket modifications, with a wide range of available upgrades to enhance its performance and personalize its appearance. Common modifications include suspension upgrades such as lowering springs or coilovers to improve handling, as well as performance exhaust systems to increase horsepower and improve sound.
Other popular modifications include aftermarket wheels and tires for improved grip and aesthetics, as well as aerodynamic enhancements like spoilers and diffusers to improve stability at higher speeds. Many owners also opt for performance brake upgrades to enhance stopping power, and interior modifications to personalize the driving experience. The GR86’s strong aftermarket support allows owners to tailor the car to their individual preferences and driving styles.