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Is the GR86 considered a sports car?

Yes, the Toyota GR86 is widely considered a sports car. The GR86 is a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that has been praised for its engaging driving dynamics, balanced handling, and affordable price point.


What Makes the GR86 a Sports Car?


The GR86 (and its Subaru BRZ twin) possess several key characteristics that define it as a sports car:



  • Rear-Wheel Drive: The GR86 is one of the few new sports cars on the market that still uses a rear-wheel-drive layout, which provides a more engaging and dynamic driving experience compared to front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.

  • Lightweight and Compact: The GR86 has a curb weight of just over 2,800 pounds, making it a lightweight and nimble sports car. Its compact dimensions also contribute to its agile handling.li>
  • Powerful Engine: The GR86 is powered by a 2.4-liter flat-four "boxer" engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for its lightweight chassis.

  • Balanced Handling: The GR86 is praised for its well-balanced, communicative handling that allows the driver to feel connected to the road. Its low center of gravity and near-perfect 53/47 front/rear weight distribution contribute to its nimble and responsive driving dynamics.


These key attributes - rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction, powerful engine, and balanced handling - are all hallmarks of a traditional sports car design. The GR86 delivers an engaging and driver-focused experience that sets it apart from more practical, everyday coupes and sedans.


Comparison to Other Sports Cars


While the GR86 is considered a sports car, it occupies a unique position in the market. Compared to more powerful and expensive sports cars like the Porsche 718 Cayman or Chevrolet Corvette, the GR86 is a more affordable and approachable sports car option. It prioritizes driver engagement and handling over outright speed and power.p>

The GR86's closest competitors are other compact, rear-wheel-drive sports coupes like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Nissan 370Z. These models also emphasize nimble handling and driver involvement over raw performance, making them similar in character to the GR86.


Overall, the Toyota GR86 is widely recognized as a true sports car due to its rear-wheel-drive layout, lightweight construction, powerful engine, and balanced handling characteristics. While it may not match the outright performance of more expensive sports cars, the GR86 delivers an engaging and driver-focused experience that has earned it a reputation as one of the best affordable sports cars on the market.

What class is the GR86 in?


Toyota 86

Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
ClassSports car (S)
Body style2-door fastback coupé
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive



Is a Camaro a sports car or muscle?


muscle car
The Chevrolet Camaro, an iconic American muscle car, has been a symbol of power and performance since its inception in 1966. Designed to compete with the Ford Mustang, the Camaro has evolved through six generations, each offering unique design and performance enhancements.



What classifies a car as a sports car?


Common characteristics of sports cars include: Quick acceleration and speed: Sports cars and muscle cars are both known for their speed. Where muscle cars focus more on power, sports cars focus on quick acceleration. Small and compact design: Sports cars are smaller than muscle cars and usually look sleeker.



Is the GR86 a performance car?


It's everything an entry-level sports car should be." "Still, plenty of cornering grip, great balance, sharp steering, and a rev-happy engine make the GR86 fun drive no matter where you're going.



What type of car is GR86?


The Toyota GR86 is proof you can still have fun on budget. A diminutive coupe with comically tiny rear seats, a 228-hp flat-four engine, rear-wheel drive, and a manual transmission, the GR86 walks a straight path through a world built on compromise.



Why is GR86 being discontinued?


The main reason for this is the General Safety Regulation of the European Union (including cybersecurity), to which the platform will not be converted. Any models that do not meet these requirements will no longer be eligible for new registration in the EU after the beginning of July 2024."



Is the Toyota GR86 considered a sports car?


It's a sports car, for goodness sake. You're supposed to hear the tires, the exhaust, my giggling, etc. Let's talk quality. Toyota is ranked #2 in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study.



Is the GR86 a racing car?


Toyota's GR86 Cup Car emerged into the racing world in 2023 and became an instant hit with drivers and teams. Its unique combination of power and aerodynamics creates intense racing on any track. The 2.4-liter flat-four engine produces 228 horsepower with Bosch-engineered traction control and anti-lock brake systems.



How do you tell if a car is a sports car?


Broader definitions of sports cars include cars "in which performance takes precedence over carrying capacity", or that emphasise the "thrill of driving" or are marketed "using the excitement of speed and the glamour of the (race)track" However, other people have more specific definitions, such as "must be a two-seater ...



Which Toyota car is sporty?


GR Supra. Go beyond a victory lap with the Toyota GR Supra, a sports car that needs little introduction.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.