Is a Toyota 86 a Supra?
No—the Toyota 86 is not a Supra. They are distinct models developed on different paths, even though both sit in Toyota’s Gazoo Racing lineup and share a focus on driving enjoyment.
Origins and architecture
Toyota 86: a collaboration with Subaru
The Toyota 86 (also known in some markets as the GT86 or under the Scion badge in the U.S. as FR-S) was born from a joint project with Subaru. Launched in the early 2010s, it emphasized light weight, balanced handling, and a pure driver’s experience. A second-generation GR86 arrived in the early 2020s, built on updated Subaru-derived architecture and powered by a larger naturally aspirated or lightly boosted flat-four engine. The car’s core mission remains affordable, engaging rear-wheel-drive motoring.
Toyota Supra: revival on a BMW platform
The Supra nameplate was revived in 2019 as a more premium, higher-performance model developed in collaboration with BMW. It rides on a platform shared with the BMW Z4, with engines ranging from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a turbocharged inline-six. The Supra emphasizes power, refinement, and technology, positioning it above the GR86 in Toyota’s sports-car hierarchy.
Key differences today
Here are the core differences that shape what each car offers to buyers today:
- Target audience and persona: GR86 is a lightweight, affordable, driver-focused sports car; Supra targets enthusiasts seeking higher performance and premium features.
- Engine options: GR86 uses a 2.4L flat-four that delivers around 228 hp; Supra offers a 2.0L turbo four (about 255 hp) and a 3.0L turbo inline-six (around 382 hp).
- Platform and engineering: GR86 is a Toyota/Subaru joint FR (front-engine, rear-wheel-drive) platform; Supra is built on BMW’s Z4-based platform.
- Performance characteristics: GR86 emphasizes balance, agility, and proportional power; Supra emphasizes outright horsepower and refined throttle response for higher-speed driving.
- Transmission options: GR86 commonly offers a manual transmission (with a six-speed manual available in many markets), while the Supra is predominantly sold with an automatic, with a manual option being rare and limited in availability.
- Price and positioning: GR86 is generally more affordable and aimed at entry-level sports-car buyers; Supra sits higher in price, reflecting greater power and premium features.
In short, both cars wear Toyota’s sports-badge and rear-wheel-drive spirit, but they target different experiences, budgets, and priorities.
Which one should you choose?
Your choice depends on what you want from a sports car. If you crave a nimble, cost-conscious, driver-centric package with a lightweight feel and a manual option, the GR86 is a compelling pick. If you want more horsepower, a premium badge, and a more refined, high-tech experience with stronger straight-line performance, the Supra offers those attributes—though at a higher price and with a heavier, more luxury-oriented feel.
Summary
The Toyota 86 and the Supra are separate models with distinct development histories. The 86 (GR86) represents Toyota’s lightweight, enthusiast-focused approach developed with Subaru, while the Supra represents a premium, BMW-influenced continuation of Toyota’s sportscar lineage. They share the broad goal of delivering engaging rear-wheel-drive thrills, but they serve different audiences and purposes within Toyota’s lineup.
Are Toyota and Supra the same car?
The Toyota Supra (Japanese: トヨタ・スープラ, Hepburn: Toyota Sūpura) is a sports car and grand tourer manufactured and developed by the Toyota Motor Corporation beginning in 1978. The name "supra" is a definition from the Latin prefix, meaning "above", "to surpass" or "go beyond".
Is a Supra faster than a GR86?
There is a big weight difference this car is about 2,800 lb versus 3,400 lb in the Supra. And when you look on paper as far as specifications. For performance data the automatic Supra is going to do 0
What is a Toyota 86 called?
Also called. Subaru BRZ. Toyota GT86 (Europe) Scion FR-S (North America, 2012–2016)
How much is a 1986 Supra worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,000 for a 1986 Toyota Supra Mk II in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1986 Toyota Supra Mk II? The highest selling price of a 1986 Toyota Supra Mk II at auction over the last three years was $47,775.
