The Toyota Supra has been a staple in the world of affordable sports cars since its debut in 1978. Renowned for its blend of comfort and high-performance engineering, this legendary model has evolved over the decades, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive industry.
The Origins: Laying the Foundation
Toyota’s journey into the sports car segment began in the 1960s with the introduction of the Sports 800 and the 2000 GT. While neither model achieved mass-market success, they paved the way for Toyota to conceptualize a more widely accessible coupe. This vision materialized with the launch of the Celica in 1970, a model that gained popularity despite its modest performance. Seeking to enhance its appeal, Toyota introduced the Celica Supra A40 in 1978. Featuring a longer wheelbase and premium features, it stood apart from its predecessor. Buyers could choose between a 2.0-liter engine producing 125 horsepower or a more robust 2.6-liter inline-six generating 140 horsepower.
Rising Competition and the Supra A60
With the Nissan Z series dominating the American market, Toyota responded in 1982 with the Celica Supra A60. This iteration showcased a striking design, characterized by sharp lines, retractable headlights, and flared wheel arches. Under the hood, inline-six engines became standard, delivering up to 170 horsepower. The model also featured four-wheel independent suspension and front and rear disc brakes, significantly improving handling and safety. Despite its short production span, the A60 gained widespread popularity and set the stage for future Supra models.
Breaking Free: The Supra A70
By 1986, Toyota fully separated the Supra from the Celica, launching the third-generation A70. This model introduced a more refined aesthetic, including an optional T-top roof tailored for the North American market. Powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, the A70 produced 204 horsepower in its naturally aspirated version and 235 horsepower with a turbocharger. Its enhanced performance and sleek design solidified its position as a fan favorite, keeping it in production until 1992.
The Iconic A80: A Legend is Born
The fourth-generation Supra, introduced in 1993, became an instant icon, largely thanks to its presence in pop culture, particularly in the Fast and Furious franchise. Beyond its striking design, the A80 boasted remarkable engineering. Its legendary 2JZ engine was incredibly durable, capable of handling over 1,000 horsepower with proper tuning. Factory models came with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 220 horsepower in its base form and 330 horsepower in the twin-turbocharged variant. Despite its performance capabilities, the Supra A80 saw limited success in Europe, selling only 1,500 units between 1993 and 1996. However, it has since become one of the most sought-after collector’s cars, with prices continuing to rise.
The Unexpected Revival: Supra A90
After years of absence, Toyota revived the Supra in 2019, surprising enthusiasts with a collaboration with BMW. Built on the BMW Z4 platform, the fifth-generation Supra featured a choice of two powertrains: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 258 horsepower and a 3.0-liter inline-six producing 387 horsepower. Initially, both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF, but in 2022, Toyota introduced a six-speed manual gearbox for the six-cylinder variant, catering to driving purists. Recently, Toyota announced the end of the A90’s production, marking the occasion with a special ‘Final Edition’ model. While the future of the Supra remains uncertain, its legacy as a performance powerhouse is undeniable.
