If you haven’t already noticed, the Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, and Scion FR-S have a very similar appearance.
The truth is that these vehicles have only seen a few minor design alterations since they were first introduced. Which of these cars is the best one to buy, then?
You must examine extremely closely to spot the variations between these two car models. Here is a list of their primary distinctions from one another.
The outside appearance is where the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ diverge most. The Subaru BRZ has a dull front end, while the Toyota GT86 has a sharper appearance. There are also some variations in how the suspension performs.
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ vary in the following ways, in greater detail:
In This Article...
What unites the Toyota 86 and BRZ?
First off, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are nearly identical vehicles since they were jointly produced by the two Japanese automakers after Toyota acquired a 10% interest in Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru.
Toyota wished to make use of the boxer engine and fundamental platform architecture of the previous-generation Impreza. Following the loss of vehicles like the Toyota Celica and Toyota Supra, the company spent a decade in a slump. The components were seen as crucial to reestablishing its sports car credentials.
As a result, the 86 and BRZ have the same mechanical design and are powered by the same 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, which, when paired with the standard six-speed manual transmission, generates 152kW at 7000 rpm and 212Nm between 6400 and 800 rpm.
The ease of a self-shifting transmission and improved fuel efficiency (7.1L/100km as opposed to 8.4L/100km) are available with the optional six-speed automatic, although the outputs are slightly lower at 147kW and 205Nm.
Both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ feature basic two-door body designs, yet they differ slightly in little ways thanks to their stylistic cues. These include unique front bumper bars, various LED headlight and taillight designs, and unique alloy wheel designs for each automobile.
Why did Subaru and Toyota produce the same vehicle?
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are the products of a partnership between the two Japanese automakers to create a reasonably priced rear-wheel-drive sports car. According to Road & Track, collaboration reduced expenses and sped up the design process, keeping sticker prices low. As a result, the coupes’ powertrains and chassis shared a number of mechanical parts. There were a few minute variations, though.
Toyota’s rendition initially debuted as the 2013 Scion FR-S. According to Car and Driver, the engine was a 2.0-liter flat-four with 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, just like the Subaru BRZ. The FR-suspension S’s setup, though, rendered it more “tail-happy” than the BRZ, according to DrivingLine. The BRZ also included more standard equipment and a little superior cabin. But it did get more expensive as a result. However, according to Autoblog, by 2016 the two vehicles were basically identical.
According to Car & Driver, the FR-S was rebranded the Toyota 86 in 2017 after Scion was dissolved. The interior of the coupe was also overhauled by Toyota, and the suspension and anti-roll bars were modified. Additionally, Autotrader claims that cars with the six-speed manual received a modest increase in power from 200 hp and 151 lb-ft to 205 hp and 156 lb-ft. According to Car and Driver, the Subaru BRZ received these similar changes for 2017.
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 were nearly interchangeable by 2020. According to Autotrader, they not only provided the same outputs but also the same functionality, albeit in a different way presented. The 86 features an optional TRD Handling Package, whereas the BRZ is a little bit more neutral out of the box, according to Mechanic Base.
Better: the BRZ or the GR86.
We can (and will, don’t worry) compare all of our test results to see which one is superior based on many measurable criteria, but the suspension settings are by far the most important factors in this situation. What better starting point could we ask for than for both of our test cars to be within 5 pounds of one another and to be equipped with the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires that are readily available (reserved for the Limited model of the BRZ and the Premium trim of the GR86), leveling the playing field where the rubber literally meets the road?
The Toyota GR86 just beat out the BRZ at the test track, showing greater grip on the skidpad (0.98 g vs. 0.93) and reaching 60 mph 0.1 second quicker, in 5.8 seconds, despite each vehicle having the same amount of power, weight, and tire options. The GR86 completed our figure-eight course in under a second faster. The Subaru stopped from 60 mph in a solid 107 feet, 1 foot shorter than the Toyota, giving an indication of its firmer front end. This was the Subaru’s lone objective dynamic victory over the GR86, however both cars experienced brake fade during our track session. If you intend to take part in a track day, consider upgrading the brake fluid, brake pads, or both. You may also consider finding a means to improve the cooling of the current brakes.
The BRZ is certainly not a pushover, but it excels at consistency. The Subaru is without a doubt the more dependable lap-time companion of the two thanks to its more planted rear end. Although it will outperform the BRZ if you’re prepared to put a little more effort into your driving, you’ll be having too much fun in the Toyota to care much about lap times. This is because even beginners may readily approach and cross over the grip threshold at sub-felony speeds because the GR86’s butt slides about a lot more, but its movement is telegraphed to the driver’s southern cheeks. With other words, if you overcook something in the Toyota, it’s simple to rein it back in.
Recovery in the Subaru requires a little more concentration; even if its tail clings on for a longer period of time, it releases less gently. Consider it like this: The ultimate rear-end grip of the BRZ is similar to that of the GR86, but there is a smaller window between possessing that grip and losing it. The BRZ can drift, but getting there and maintaining that edge requires more accurate steering and throttle inputs from more seasoned drivers. By the way, the center console of both automobiles has a setting for stability control that alternates between on and off.
GT86 or BRZ, which is faster?
Since the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are categorized as sports vehicles, it becomes sense to believe that they move quickly and very quickly. Both vehicles have comparable engine performance ratings, but the BRZ outperforms the 86 somewhat in terms of suspension performance.
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine often found in Porsches powers both vehicles. With a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, this engine can provide 200 or 205 horsepower. The stiff sports suspension provides a well-balanced direct drive to the rear wheels.
Customers have the option of choosing the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) package, which improves the 86’s handling. Conversely, Subaru has superior control right out of the gate. Additionally, Brembo brakes are installed to support sudden vehicle stopping during emergencies.
What exactly does BRZ mean?
The BRZ is the moniker Subaru gave to its future rear-drive sports car.
The company has declared that manufacturing would begin in the spring of 2012 and that it stands for “Boxer engine, Rear-wheel drive, and Zenit.” Of course, Toyota helped design the vehicle, and Toyota will market it under the Scion brand in this country. Subaru will introduce a new technology.
Does Toyota produce Subaru motors?
Since 1968, Subaru automobiles have been sold in the US. They have gained a reputation for producing some of the toughest all-wheel-drive vehicles on the market since entering the American auto sector. Additionally, the business is well known for utilising high-torque boxer engines in their line of automobiles. The only company now producing Subaru cars, trucks, and SUVs is Subaru itself, as the business is the automotive section of Subaru Corporation.
The business, formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries, is the owner of several manufacturing firms that produce anything from heavy machinery to aircraft. The Pleiades star cluster, also referred to as the “seven sisters,” is where Subaru derives its name. Six of the seven stars are visible without a telescope. As a result of the merging of six significant businesses, then-named Fuji Heavy Industries, this star cluster is known as Subaru in Japanese. The famous six-star logo of Subaru, which is seen on the grills of almost all of its vehicles, serves as a reminder of the name’s genesis.
What exactly does GT86 mean?
the title. The 2000GT and the Corolla GT Coup are two of the most significant sports vehicles in Toyota’s history, and they are both mentioned in the moniker “GT86” (AE86). Additionally, it derives from the car’s development code, “086A.”
Is the Subaru BRZ a Lightning McQueen?
Utah’s SARATOGA SPRINGS
When they see a well-known Disney character on the roadways in Utah County, they no longer doubt their vision.
That’s because Chris Van Wagenen customized his 2017 Subaru BRZ to look exactly like Lightning McQueen from the Cars movies by Disney.
Van Wagenen is a TikToker, and many of his videos include his McQueen vehicle.
He posted a picture of his car on Instagram for the first time, but it didn’t get many likes.
Van Wagenen remarked, “All I got was, ‘I thought Lightning McQueen was supposed to be fast.
He persisted in trying. Instead, he focused on showcasing the car on TikTok.
Would Mrs. McQueen be the future Mrs. Van Wagenen or one of those videos looking for her be one of those?
Chris is his name, and he introduced himself in the video. If you think the Lightning McQueen I drive is sexy, wait till you see the Star Wars wrap I’m going to put on my WRX.
Positive responses are generated just by the car itself. Every time he is out on the road, according to Van Wagenen, he receives dozens of smiles. However, he is now attempting to share even more joy.
Van Wagenen is awarding strangers who successfully answer Cars trivia questions with his earnings from TikTok views this month.
See how many people I can make happy if I continue on my current course, Van Wagenen stated. “My new specialty is this. My name is Lightning McQueen.”
As the films receive more likes and views, Van Wagenen stated that he intends to increase the reward sums. It’s his modest means of spreading goodwill among his neighbors and the wider community.
He stated, “The reactions are priceless. “Everyone enjoys it and finds it to be fun. People frequently videotape on their phones as they pass me in their vehicles. It’s amazing.”
John Franchi first broadcast this tale on Salt Lake City’s Scripps station KSTU.
Is Subaru or Toyota better?
Subarus are less dependable than Toyotas overall. They consistently receive superior ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and have more distinctions and awards across all models. Toyota provides a model that has received great ratings and will meet your demands, whether you’re searching for an all-wheel-drive sedan or a truck with off-roading skills.
The MSRP of several Toyota automobiles is lower than Subaru’s. Additionally, all trim levels of the majority of their vehicles come standard with amenities like adaptive cruise control, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. They also have Toyota’s Safety Sense, which is a collection of security features like pre-collision and lane-keeping assistance. They become a better overall value and are much more reliable on the road in terms of both their mechanical and feature set.