How fast is the Toyota 86?
The Toyota 86 lineage blends lightweight handling with sporty performance, evolving from the original 2.0-liter, rear-wheel-drive coupe to the current GR86 with a larger engine and refined chassis. This article breaks down how fast it is across generations and configurations, so readers can see how speed has changed over time.
In its current form, the GR86 with a 2.4-liter engine delivers about 228 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 6.1 seconds, with a top speed around 145 mph. The earlier 2.0-liter 86/GT86/FR-S sibling produced about 200–205 horsepower, did 0–60 in about 6.0–6.4 seconds, and reached roughly 140 mph.
Performance by generation
First generation (2012–2020)
Key speed and performance figures for the original Toyota 86 family, including the GT86 and its siblings, highlight a light, engaging coupe with modest horsepower by modern standards but strong handling.
- Engine: 2.0L flat-four, roughly 200–205 hp; torque around 156 lb-ft (211 Nm).
- Transmission: 6-speed manual standard; 6-speed automatic optional.
- 0–60 mph: typically 6.0–6.4 seconds depending on transmission and test conditions.
- Top speed: around 140 mph (225 km/h) in stock form.
- Weight: curb weight roughly 2,800–2,900 lb (1,270–1,315 kg).
In summary, the first generation prioritized balance and driver engagement over outright speed, delivering a nimble and feel-first experience.
Second generation / GR86 (2021–present)
The GR86 arrived with a larger 2.4-liter engine and updated chassis tuning, delivering more power without a heavy weight penalty and preserving the model’s keen handling character.
Key speed and performance figures for the second-generation GR86 include the following.
- Engine: 2.4L flat-four, 228 hp, 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual standard; 6-speed automatic available.
- 0–60 mph: about 6.1 seconds with manual; roughly 6.3–6.7 seconds with automatic depending on spec and launch conditions.
- Top speed: around 140–145 mph (225–233 km/h), depending on gearing and tires.
- Weight: curb weight around 2,840–2,900 lb (1,288–1,315 kg).
Overall, the GR86 preserves the brand’s emphasis on accessible speed and lively response, with a meaningful uptick in power and mid-range torque that translates to quicker real-world acceleration.
Real-world takeaways
Performance figures vary by trim, transmission, tires, and testing conditions. Reviews often emphasize that momentum comes in the mid-range, where the GR86’s 2.4-liter engine provides stronger mid‑range response, while the lighter overall weight keeps the driving experience dynamic and playful.
Summary
The Toyota 86 family has evolved from a nimble 2.0-liter coupe to a more potent GR86 with a 2.4-liter engine. If you want the quickest official numbers, the GR86 targets about 228 hp, 0–60 mph in roughly 6.1 seconds, and a top speed near 145 mph. The original 86/GT86/FR-S offered around 200–205 hp, about 6.0–6.4 seconds to 60 mph, and a top speed near 140 mph. Across both generations, the key speed story is a balance of light weight and responsive power, delivering engaging sportiness more than outright speed on a straight line.
