Hey car enthusiasts! Ever heard of the Toyota 86? If you're into sports cars that blend performance, style, and affordability, then you're in for a treat. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about the Toyota 86, from its origins and design to its performance and why it remains a favorite among car lovers. Let's get started!

What is the Toyota 86?

The Toyota 86, also known as the Scion FR-S in some markets, is a compact sports car jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. First introduced in 2012, it quickly gained popularity for its engaging driving dynamics, sleek design, and accessible price point. The 86 is designed with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a true driver's car. This configuration provides excellent balance and handling, perfect for carving through winding roads or hitting the track. One of the key features of the Toyota 86 is its focus on simplicity and purity of driving experience. Unlike many modern sports cars that are loaded with electronic aids and complex systems, the 86 keeps things straightforward, emphasizing driver skill and involvement. This back-to-basics approach has resonated with enthusiasts who appreciate the raw, unfiltered feel of a traditional sports car. Over the years, the Toyota 86 has seen several updates and special editions, each adding its own unique flavor to the mix. However, the core essence of the car – its focus on driving pleasure and affordability – has remained constant. Whether you're a seasoned sports car veteran or a newcomer looking to experience the thrill of rear-wheel-drive performance, the Toyota 86 offers something for everyone. Its combination of nimble handling, responsive engine, and stylish design makes it a standout in the sports car market.

History and Evolution of the Toyota 86

The story of the Toyota 86 is an interesting one, rooted in a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. The project aimed to create an affordable, lightweight sports car that would revive the spirit of classic rear-wheel-drive coupes. The car was initially released as the Scion FR-S in North America, while other markets knew it as the Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ. This collaboration brought together Toyota's expertise in design and marketing with Subaru's engineering prowess, particularly their horizontally opposed boxer engine. This engine, known for its low center of gravity, is a key component of the 86's balanced handling. The first generation of the Toyota 86, launched in 2012, was an instant hit. Its combination of affordability, stylish looks, and engaging driving dynamics made it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts. Over the years, Toyota introduced several updates and special editions to keep the 86 fresh and appealing. These included cosmetic tweaks, performance upgrades, and new trim levels. One notable edition was the TRD (Toyota Racing Development) model, which featured enhanced suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics for improved track performance. In 2021, Toyota announced the second generation of the 86, now simply called the GR86 (Gazoo Racing 86). This new model features a more powerful engine, updated styling, and improved interior. The GR86 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor while addressing some of its shortcomings, such as the need for more horsepower. The evolution of the Toyota 86 reflects a commitment to providing an accessible and enjoyable sports car experience. From its initial launch as the Scion FR-S to the latest GR86, the car has consistently delivered on its promise of affordable fun. Its history is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-engineered sports cars that prioritize driver engagement.

Key Features and Specs of the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86 boasts several key features that make it a standout in the sports car market. At its heart is a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, also known as a boxer engine. This engine delivers around 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience. The boxer engine's low center of gravity contributes to the car's excellent balance and handling. The 86 is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for enthusiasts, offering precise shifts and greater control. The automatic transmission, while convenient, still provides a sporty feel with paddle shifters for manual control. One of the defining characteristics of the Toyota 86 is its rear-wheel-drive layout. This configuration provides a classic sports car feel, allowing for playful handling and the ability to drift. The 86's suspension is tuned for agility, with MacPherson struts in the front and double wishbones in the rear. This setup provides a firm but controlled ride, perfect for both street and track use. The interior of the Toyota 86 is simple and functional, with a focus on the driving experience. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered, keeping you in place during spirited driving. The dashboard is clean and easy to read, with all the essential information readily available. In terms of dimensions, the Toyota 86 is a compact sports car, with a low-slung profile and a short wheelbase. This contributes to its nimble handling and makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Toyota 86's key features and specs combine to create a sports car that is both fun and practical. Its responsive engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and agile suspension make it a joy to drive, while its simple interior and compact dimensions make it easy to live with on a daily basis.

Performance and Handling of the Toyota 86

When it comes to sports cars, performance and handling are paramount, and the Toyota 86 doesn't disappoint. The 86's 2.0-liter boxer engine delivers a punchy and responsive performance. While it may not have the outright power of some of its competitors, the engine's eagerness to rev and its linear power delivery make it a joy to drive. The engine's low center of gravity, thanks to its horizontally opposed design, contributes to the car's excellent balance and handling. The rear-wheel-drive layout of the Toyota 86 is a key factor in its engaging driving dynamics. This configuration allows for playful handling and the ability to drift, making it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts. The 86's suspension is tuned for agility, with a firm but controlled ride. The car corners flat and responds quickly to steering inputs, providing a confident and engaging driving experience. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for those who want the most out of the Toyota 86's performance. The precise shifts and well-spaced gears allow you to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing acceleration and control. The automatic transmission, while not as engaging as the manual, still provides a sporty feel with paddle shifters for manual control. One of the great things about the Toyota 86 is its predictability. The car is easy to control and provides plenty of feedback, allowing you to push it to its limits with confidence. Whether you're carving through winding roads or hitting the track, the 86 delivers a thrilling and rewarding driving experience. Overall, the Toyota 86's performance and handling are a testament to its focus on driving pleasure. Its responsive engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and agile suspension combine to create a sports car that is both fun and engaging to drive.

Design and Styling of the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86 is not just about performance; its design and styling also play a significant role in its appeal. The 86 boasts a sleek and sporty exterior design, with a long hood, a low roofline, and a short rear deck. This classic sports car silhouette gives the car a dynamic and athletic stance. The front of the Toyota 86 features a distinctive grille, sharp headlights, and aggressive air intakes. These elements combine to create a bold and purposeful look. The rear of the car is equally striking, with its sculpted taillights, integrated spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets. The overall design is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on aerodynamics and visual appeal. Inside, the Toyota 86's design is simple and functional, with a focus on the driving experience. The seats are supportive and well-bolstered, keeping you in place during spirited driving. The dashboard is clean and easy to read, with all the essential information readily available. The interior materials are of good quality, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and sporty accents. The overall design is understated but stylish, creating a comfortable and inviting environment. One of the great things about the Toyota 86's design is its timelessness. The car looks just as good today as it did when it was first introduced, and its classic sports car proportions ensure that it will continue to turn heads for years to come. Whether you're a fan of its sleek exterior or its functional interior, the Toyota 86's design is sure to impress. Its combination of style, aerodynamics, and functionality makes it a standout in the sports car market. The Toyota 86 is a testament to the fact that a car can be both beautiful and practical, without compromising on either.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Toyota 86

Owning a Toyota 86, like any car, comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let's break them down to help you decide if this sports car is the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Engaging Driving Dynamics: The Toyota 86 is known for its excellent handling, responsive steering, and playful rear-wheel-drive nature. It's a blast to drive on twisty roads and a great platform for learning car control.
• Affordable Price: Compared to many other sports cars, the Toyota 86 is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts.
• Stylish Design: The 86's sleek and sporty design is sure to turn heads. Its classic sports car proportions and aggressive styling give it a distinctive and appealing look.
• Reliable: Toyota is known for its reliability, and the 86 is no exception. With proper maintenance, it should provide years of trouble-free driving.
• Good Aftermarket Support: The Toyota 86 has a large and active aftermarket community, with a wide range of parts and accessories available to customize and improve its performance.

Cons:

• Limited Power: The 86's 2.0-liter engine can feel a bit underpowered, especially when compared to some of its competitors. Some drivers may find themselves wanting more horsepower.
• Small Back Seats: The rear seats in the Toyota 86 are very small and not suitable for adults. They're best used for storage or very short trips.
• Basic Interior: While the 86's interior is functional and well-laid-out, it can feel a bit basic compared to some of its more luxurious competitors.
• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Toyota 86's fuel economy is not great either, especially if you drive it hard. Expect to get around 25-30 mpg on the highway.
• Road Noise: The Toyota 86 can be a bit noisy on the highway, with a fair amount of road and wind noise entering the cabin.

Overall, the Toyota 86 is a great sports car for those who prioritize driving fun and affordability. However, if you need a lot of power or a comfortable interior, you may want to consider other options.

Is the Toyota 86 Right for You?

Deciding whether the Toyota 86 is the right car for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you're a sports car enthusiast who values driving fun, affordability, and a stylish design, then the 86 is definitely worth considering. Its engaging driving dynamics and playful handling make it a joy to drive on twisty roads, while its relatively low price point makes it accessible to a wider range of buyers. However, if you need a lot of power, a spacious interior, or a luxurious ride, then the 86 may not be the best choice. Its 2.0-liter engine can feel a bit underpowered, and its rear seats are too small for adults. Additionally, its interior is fairly basic compared to some of its more upscale competitors. To help you make a decision, consider the following questions:

• What are your priorities? Are you primarily looking for a fun and engaging driving experience, or do you need a practical and comfortable daily driver?
• What is your budget? The Toyota 86 is relatively affordable, but it's still a significant investment. Make sure it fits within your budget.
• What kind of driving do you do? If you mostly drive on the highway, you may want to consider a more comfortable and refined car. But if you enjoy driving on twisty roads or hitting the track, the 86 is a great choice.
• Do you need rear seats? The 86's rear seats are very small, so if you regularly carry passengers, you may want to consider a different car.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Toyota 86 is right for you is to take it for a test drive. This will give you a feel for its handling, performance, and overall driving experience. If you fall in love with its playful nature and engaging dynamics, then it's probably the right car for you. If not, there are plenty of other sports cars out there to choose from.

Final Thoughts

The Toyota 86 is a fantastic sports car that offers a unique blend of performance, style, and affordability. Its engaging driving dynamics, sleek design, and accessible price point make it a favorite among car enthusiasts. While it may not be the most powerful or luxurious sports car on the market, it more than makes up for it with its fun-to-drive nature and timeless appeal. Whether you're a seasoned sports car veteran or a newcomer looking to experience the thrill of rear-wheel-drive performance, the Toyota 86 is definitely worth considering. Its combination of nimble handling, responsive engine, and stylish design makes it a standout in the sports car market. So, if you're in the market for a sports car that won't break the bank and will provide you with countless hours of driving pleasure, be sure to check out the Toyota 86. You won't be disappointed!