What was the BRZ designed for?

The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports car that was designed with driving enthusiasts in mind. Developed in collaboration with Toyota, the BRZ offers an engaging and responsive driving experience that has made it a popular choice among those who prioritize performance and handling over raw power.

Lightweight and Balanced Design

The BRZ's design philosophy is centered around achieving a low center of gravity and a well-balanced weight distribution. The car's lightweight construction, with a curb weight of just over 2,800 pounds, allows for nimble and agile handling. The engine is mounted low and far back in the chassis, creating a near-perfect 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution. This balanced design, combined with the car's rear-wheel-drive layout, gives the BRZ exceptional cornering abilities and a thrilling driving experience.

Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine

Under the hood, the BRZ is powered by a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, which is a hallmark of Subaru's engineering. This engine design, with its horizontally opposed cylinders, helps to keep the center of gravity low and contributes to the car's balanced handling. The engine produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for the lightweight chassis without overwhelming the driver.

Driving Dynamics and Enthusiast-Focused Features

• Precise and communicative steering: The BRZ's steering system is designed to provide the driver with a direct and responsive feel, allowing for precise control and feedback.


• Balanced suspension tuning: The suspension setup, with MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone design in the rear, is tuned for optimal balance between ride comfort and handling performance.


• Available manual transmission: The BRZ can be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, which allows drivers to fully engage with the driving experience and better control the car's power delivery.


• Limited-slip differential: The available limited-slip differential helps to improve traction and stability during spirited driving, enhancing the BRZ's cornering capabilities.

The Subaru BRZ is a sports car that has been designed with the driving enthusiast in mind. Its lightweight, balanced design, naturally aspirated boxer engine, and enthusiast-focused features make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize an engaging and responsive driving experience.

What year to avoid BRZ?

The Subaru BRZ years to avoid are 2013 and early 2014 due to significant engine issues like valve spring recall problems and potential oil consumption. While there were other recalls and issues in later years (such as a 2018 fuel pump recall), the 2013-early 2014 models are the ones most commonly cited as years to be particularly wary of. 
This video discusses the major problems in early models of BRZ/FRS/86: 58sShifting LanesYouTube · Apr 25, 2018
Years to generally avoid

• 2013 and early 2014: These model years had recalls and reports of significant problems, including:
  • Valve spring recall: An issue where valve springs could fracture, leading to engine failure.
  • Oil issues: Some models, particularly those produced before a certain date, had a tendency for oiling problems.
  • Engine tuning and ECU calibration: Early models had a less optimal engine calibration.
  • Other issues: Users report issues with power windows freezing, water leaks, and interior rattles. 

Other years to be cautious of

• 2018: This year had a fuel pump recall and a recall for the rearview camera not displaying properly.
• 2019: Some 2019 models were included in the 2018 fuel pump recall. 

What to do if buying a used BRZ

• Check for recalls: Before purchasing, use the VIN to check if any recalls have been performed. 
• Be prepared for oil consumption: The BRZ can burn oil, so check the oil level regularly regardless of the model year. 
• Consider newer models: Later model years, such as the 2017 and later, generally have fewer reported issues. 

What does the BRZ stand for in cars?

BRZ stands for Boxer engine, Rear-wheel drive, and Zenith. It is the name of a sports car made by Subaru, and the letters represent the key features of the vehicle: the horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, the rear-wheel drive system, and "Zenith," which represents the peak or highest point of performance and a lofty goal for the car.
 

• Boxer engine: The "B" refers to the horizontally-opposed engine, which is a signature feature of many Subaru vehicles and is known for its low center of gravity. 
• Rear-wheel drive: The "R" signifies that the car is rear-wheel drive, a departure from Subaru's traditional all-wheel drive and a common feature in sports cars. 
• Zenith: The "Z" stands for Zenith, meaning the highest point or peak, and symbolizes Subaru's aspiration for the car to be the ultimate driving experience. 

What is the BRZ known for?

Most Subarus are known for their symmetrical all-wheel drive. The BRZ breaks that mold by going with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) platform—a rarity for the brand and a huge win for enthusiasts. RWD offers: Better handling balance.

Is a BRZ faster than a wrx?

The Subaru WRX is generally faster in a straight line, while the Subaru BRZ is quicker around corners and has better handling due to its lighter weight and rear-wheel drive setup. The WRX has a turbocharged engine with more horsepower, while the BRZ has a naturally aspirated engine. However, the difference can be marginal in some situations, and overall lap times on a road course are often close. 
You can watch this video for a comparison of the WRX and BRZ's performance: 59sBen HardyYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
Subaru WRX

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L flat-four engine (271 horsepower) 
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive 
• Performance: Quicker in a straight line due to more horsepower and torque, providing faster acceleration 
• Handling: Capable, but more focused on a powerful all-around performance, including confidence in various road conditions 

Subaru BRZ

• Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine (228 horsepower) 
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive 
• Performance: Less powerful in a straight line, but the lower weight makes it feel agile 
• Handling: More nimble and precise, especially in corners and on twisty roads, thanks to its lightweight, RWD design 

Which one to choose

• Choose the WRX if: You prioritize straight-line speed, all-weather capability, and a more practical sedan with a powerful turbo engine for daily driving. 
• Choose the BRZ if: Your priority is a more traditional sports car feel with sharp handling, balance, and a focus on driver engagement on a winding road.