Is a Toyota 86 GT fast?
The Toyota 86 GT is quick for its class but not a high-speed powerhouse. In its current GR86 form, the car uses a 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing about 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, with 0–60 mph in roughly 6.0–6.5 seconds and a top speed around 140–145 mph. It emphasizes light weight and agile handling over raw straight‑line speed. Here’s a detailed look at how fast it really is and how it stacks up against its peers.
Performance fundamentals
This section highlights the core numbers that govern speed, including power output, transmission choices, and weight, which together determine straight‑line acceleration and top speed.
Powertrain and output
Key specifications that influence straight‑line speed include engine displacement, horsepower, torque, and available transmissions.
- Engine options: 2.0-liter flat-four in earlier generations; 2.4-liter flat-four in the GR86/86 lineup
- Horsepower: about 197–205 hp for the 2.0L; 228 hp for the 2.4L
- Torque: roughly 151–156 lb-ft (2.0L) or 184 lb-ft (2.4L)
- Transmission choices: 6‑speed manual or 6‑speed automatic (GR86)
- 0–60 mph: typically around 6.0–7.0 seconds, depending on engine and transmission
- Top speed: generally in the low-to-mid 140s mph range
Note: The GT badge signals a well‑equipped trim rather than a dramatic difference in power. In markets where GR86 supersedes 86 naming, performance figures come from the same powertrains, with improvements mainly in weight and tuning rather than horsepower alone.
Weight and handling as speed multipliers
Speed isn’t only about horsepower—the car’s weight, balance, and grip matter just as much. The following factors influence how fast the 86 GT feels on the road and on track.
- Weight: curb weight roughly 1,270–1,350 kg (2,800–2,970 lb), depending on trim and drivetrain
- Chassis: rear‑drive layout with a low center of gravity for sharp responses
- Suspension tuning: setup emphasizes precise steering and agile cornering
- Tire choice: performance tires balance grip and feedback for better acceleration out of corners
- Braking performance: capable brakes that sustain fade resistance on spirited drives
In practice, the 86 GT’s speed benefits come from its lightness and chassis tuning more than outright horsepower, delivering engaging acceleration that shines in corners and on winding roads.
Real‑world performance and comparisons
Beyond lab numbers, how the car feels in everyday use and on a track matters. This section compares acceleration and handling feel against a few key rivals in its class.
Before diving into the comparison, note that market name and trim specifics can vary. In many regions, the latest model is marketed as the GR86, with the 2.4‑liter engine carrying the majority of the performance gains discussed here.
- Mazda MX‑5 Miata: typically lighter and very agile; often offers quicker 0–60 in certain trims due to lower weight, with acclaimed handling precision
- Subaru BRZ: mechanical twin to the Toyota 86; performance figures are similar, with tuning differences that affect ride and response
- Other peers (e.g., turbocharged hot hatches or small sports coupes): generally stronger straight‑line speed but can trade off some handling finesse or refinement
Bottom line: the 86 GT (GR86) stands out for its driver engagement and cornering balance. It isn’t meant to be the fastest car in a straight line, but it delivers a compelling, confident pace with a focus on nimble handling and driver involvement.
Summary and takeaways
In short, the Toyota 86 GT is fast enough to feel exciting and capable, especially in the GR86’s 2.4‑liter form, but it’s not a drag‑strip champion. Its strength lies in agility, balance, and communicative steering, which make it a standout choice for enthusiasts who value handling precision and a connected driving experience over outright top speed.
Conclusion and overall verdict
For buyers prioritizing engaging driving dynamics and a lightweight chassis, the 86 GT (GR86 in many markets) offers an appealing balance of speed, control, and affordability. If maximum straight‑line acceleration is the goal, there are faster options; if you want a nimble, communicative sports coupe that excels on curvy roads and track days, the 86 GT is a strong contender.
Summary
Final takeaway: The Toyota 86 GT is fast within its segment thanks to a lightweight, well‑tuned chassis and the potent 2.4‑liter GR86 engine in recent models. It prioritizes handling and driver engagement over sheer horsepower, making it a satisfying choice for enthusiasts who value a responsive, participatory driving experience rather than a top‑end speed record.
Is a Toyota GT86 a good first car?
The GT86 is certainly a good enough car if you're looking for your first ever sports car. It may not be the fastest in it's range, but this would be my rear-drive budget sports car of choice. It's affordable, fun, looks great, and well-equipped. That should be good enough for an entry-level sports car.
Is the Toyota GR86 fast?
The Toyota GR86 is considered fast for its class, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph. While it may not have the straight-line power of higher-end sports cars, its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis, and precise handling make it feel quick and engaging to drive, especially on a twisty road or track.
This video discusses the acceleration and overall performance of the GR86: 58sHarry's garageYouTube · Feb 2, 2025
- Acceleration: The GR86 can go from 000 to 606060 mph in about 6.16.16.1 seconds.
- Top Speed: Its top speed is electronically limited to 140140140 mph.
- Handling: It excels in handling and agility due to its low weight and balanced rear-wheel-drive layout, which makes it feel very responsive and fun to drive.
- Engine: It is powered by a 2.4-liter boxer engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.
- Comparison: Compared to many modern cars, it may not have the same raw horsepower, but its overall performance is a combination of its engine power, low curb weight, and superior handling dynamics.
Is the GT86 fast?
The Toyota GT86 is a car that more often than not feels like it needs just a little bit more when it comes to performance. The 7.6se 0-62mph time (unchanged for the facelifted model) is fine on paper, but on the road the GT86 feels slower than you'd expect for a car with such an emphasis on driving.
Is a BRZ or 86 faster?
Is the Toyota G86 faster than the Subaru BRZ? Toyota GR86 vs. Subaru BRZ performance is tied, as both models posted a Car and Driver tested 0-60-mph time of 5.4 seconds. They share the same specs and platform, leading to equal capabilities in both vehicles.
