Did the Toyota 86 copy the Subaru BRZ?
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are two sports cars that share a lot of similarities, leading some to question whether the Toyota model is simply a copy of the Subaru. However, the relationship between these two vehicles is more complex than a simple case of copying.
The Origins of the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ were developed as a joint project between Toyota and Subaru. The two automakers collaborated to create a rear-wheel-drive sports car platform that would be shared between the two brands. This collaboration allowed them to leverage their respective strengths and expertise to bring the project to fruition.
Similarities and Differences
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are indeed very similar in many ways, as they share the same underlying platform, engine, and overall design. Both cars feature a 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, and a lightweight, compact body. However, there are also some key differences between the two models:
- Exterior Design: While the overall silhouette is similar, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ have distinct front and rear styling cues that differentiate them.
- Suspension Tuning: Subaru and Toyota have made slight adjustments to the suspension settings to give each car a unique driving character.
- Branding and Marketing: The two automakers have positioned the cars differently, with Subaru emphasizing the BRZ's sporty credentials, while Toyota has focused on the 86's affordability and accessibility.
So, while the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are undoubtedly closely related, they are not simply copies of each other. The collaboration between the two automakers has resulted in a shared platform that allows for some differentiation and unique characteristics for each model.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are the result of a joint development project between the two automakers, and while they share many similarities, they are not simply copies of each other. The collaboration has allowed for some unique touches and differentiation between the two models, making them distinct sports cars in their own right.
Why can't you buy a GR86?
It's usually stricter emissions regulations that force automakers to discontinue their fun cars in Europe. However, the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ will be discontinued due to upcoming safety legislation.
What Toyota is similar to Subaru BRZ?
The modern aerodynamic designs of the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are what give them their sporty features. The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ both have a low and wide stance that not only enhances handling and stability, but also gives them a more aggressive, sporty look.
Why was the Toyota 86 discontinued?
The GR86 and BRZ will be discontinued in Europe in 2024 due to an upcoming safety legislation called General Safety Regulations 2.
Did Toyota copy Subaru BRZ?
Subaru and Toyota teamed up with the development of the GR 86 and BRZ, selling badge-engineered versions of the same car under both brand names. The first of the Subaru BRZ generations was launched in 2012, the same year the original Toyota 86 went on sale.
Are BRZ and GR86 made in the same factory?
The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are 2+2 sports cars jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, manufactured at Subaru's Gunma assembly plant.
Are Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ the same?
Is the Toyota GR86 the same as the Subaru BRZ? The Toyota GR86 is a more aggressive-looking, slightly lighter version of the Subaru BRZ that offers more trim levels and exclusive perks like a one-year National Auto Sport Association membership6 and a High-Performance Driving Experience.
Is Toyota's GR86 outselling Subaru's BRZ in the US?
The GR86 is outselling the nearly identical BRZ by a ratio of five to one. A Subaru spokesperson told us: "The sales are directly linked to production.
Why does the Toyota GR86 look like the Subaru BRZ?
The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are sports cars that impress in these areas. Both cars are built on the same platform so unsurprisingly they have many similarities. Their shared traits can make it hard to distinguish one from the other in certain areas.
What is similar to Toyota 86?
You can't buy a GR86 without at least considering a Subaru BRZ. The two are essentially identical, so shop them carefully to determine which version has the better feature set for you.
Which is faster, BRZ or 86?
Despite the identical power, weight, and tire offerings of each, the Toyota GR86 just edged out the BRZ at the test track, posting higher grip on the skidpad (0.98 g vs. 0.93) and reaching 60 mph 0.1 second quicker, in 5.8 seconds. On our figure-eight course, the GR86 was a full second quicker.
