Subaru BRZ & Toyota 86: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the world of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. These cars have captured the hearts of drivers who crave a pure, unfiltered driving experience. If you're considering getting one, or already own one, this guide is for you. We'll cover everything from their shared history and performance to aftermarket modifications and common issues.
A Brief History: The Twins are Born
The story begins with a collaboration. Toyota and Subaru joined forces to create a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car that would be both affordable and fun to drive. The result? The Toyota 86 (originally known as the Scion FR-S in North America) and the Subaru BRZ. Launched in 2012, these twins were designed with a focus on driving pleasure, prioritizing handling and balance over outright power.
The primary goal was to revive the spirit of classic sports cars, offering a connection between driver and machine that had become rare in modern vehicles. Both models share the same chassis, engine, and overall design, with only minor cosmetic differences setting them apart. The Subaru BRZ typically features a slightly softer suspension setup and different styling cues, while the Toyota 86 often boasts a more aggressive look. This partnership allowed both companies to share development costs and bring an exciting product to market that neither could have achieved as efficiently on their own.
The initial reception was overwhelmingly positive. Critics and enthusiasts praised the cars' sharp handling, responsive steering, and playful nature. The relatively low price point made them accessible to a wider audience, and they quickly became popular choices for both daily driving and weekend track days. The simplicity of the design, combined with the availability of aftermarket parts, also made them a favorite among tuners and modifiers. The collaboration between Toyota and Subaru proved to be a winning formula, creating a lasting impact on the sports car market. These cars proved that you don't need immense horsepower to have an exhilarating driving experience. It’s all about balance, agility, and driver engagement.
Performance and Handling: What Makes Them Special
When discussing the performance of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, it's essential to highlight the unique blend of characteristics that make these cars so special. The heart of both models is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four (boxer) engine, producing around 200 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not seem earth-shattering, it's the way this power is delivered that sets these cars apart. The engine is incredibly responsive, revving freely to its redline and providing a linear power band that's perfect for spirited driving. The availability of both manual and automatic transmissions caters to different preferences, but the manual is generally preferred by enthusiasts for its enhanced engagement.
Handling is where these cars truly shine. The combination of a low center of gravity (thanks to the boxer engine), a lightweight chassis, and a well-tuned suspension results in exceptional balance and agility. The steering is precise and communicative, providing the driver with plenty of feedback from the road. This allows for confident cornering and precise control, making every drive an engaging experience. The rear-wheel-drive layout adds another layer of fun, allowing for controlled drifts and playful maneuvers. The BRZ and 86 are designed to be approachable and forgiving, making them excellent platforms for learning and improving driving skills.
Compared to other sports cars in their class, the BRZ and 86 offer a unique driving experience that prioritizes finesse and connection over brute force. While some competitors may boast higher horsepower figures, few can match the overall balance and responsiveness of these twins. The focus on lightweight construction and optimal weight distribution contributes to their nimble handling, allowing them to excel on twisty roads and tight tracks. This emphasis on driver engagement has made them a popular choice among enthusiasts who value the art of driving. Whether you're carving through mountain passes or navigating city streets, the BRZ and 86 deliver a driving experience that's both rewarding and enjoyable.
Common Issues and Reliability: What to Watch Out For
Like any car, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 have their share of common issues that potential buyers and current owners should be aware of. Addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the longevity and reliability of these sports cars. One of the most widely discussed concerns is the "cricket" noise from the high-pressure fuel pump. This noise, which sounds like chirping crickets, is often more noticeable at idle and low speeds. While it's generally considered harmless, it can be annoying to some owners. Some have found success in mitigating the noise with aftermarket fuel pump dampers or by using higher-octane fuel.
Another common issue revolves around the engine's direct injection system, which can lead to carbon buildup on the intake valves. This buildup can reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency over time. Regular maintenance, such as using fuel additives designed to clean the fuel system and performing intake valve cleaning services, can help prevent or alleviate this issue. Some owners also opt for aftermarket oil catch cans to reduce the amount of oil vapor that enters the intake manifold.
Oil starvation has also been reported as a potential issue, particularly during aggressive driving or on the track. This is due to the oil sloshing away from the pickup tube during high-G maneuvers. To address this, some owners install aftermarket baffled oil pans or oil coolers to ensure a consistent oil supply to the engine. Regular oil level checks and timely oil changes are also crucial for maintaining engine health.
Despite these common issues, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are generally considered to be reliable cars. Many owners report high mileage with minimal problems, especially when the cars are properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and fluid checks, is essential for keeping these cars running smoothly. By staying proactive and addressing potential issues early on, owners can enjoy many years of trouble-free driving with their BRZ or 86.
Aftermarket Modifications: Unleashing the Potential
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are incredibly popular platforms for aftermarket modifications, thanks to their simple design and strong enthusiast community. The possibilities for customization are virtually endless, ranging from subtle aesthetic enhancements to significant performance upgrades. One of the most common modifications is suspension upgrades, which can improve handling and lower the car's center of gravity. Coilovers, lowering springs, and upgraded sway bars are popular choices among enthusiasts looking to enhance their car's cornering ability. These modifications can sharpen the car's response and reduce body roll, making it even more fun to drive on twisty roads or at the track.
Another popular area for modification is the exhaust system. Upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust can improve the car's sound and potentially increase horsepower. Cat-back exhausts, axle-back exhausts, and headers are all common options, each offering different levels of performance and sound enhancement. Many enthusiasts also choose to install aftermarket intake systems to improve airflow to the engine. While the power gains from an intake alone may be minimal, it can complement other modifications and improve the engine's overall response.
For those seeking more significant power gains, forced induction is a popular option. Turbocharger kits and supercharger kits are available for the BRZ and 86, offering substantial increases in horsepower and torque. These kits can transform the car's performance, making it significantly faster and more exciting to drive. However, forced induction also requires careful tuning and supporting modifications, such as upgraded fuel injectors and a stronger clutch, to ensure reliability.
Aesthetic modifications are also a popular way to personalize the BRZ and 86. Body kits, spoilers, and aftermarket wheels can dramatically change the car's appearance, giving it a more aggressive or sporty look. Interior modifications, such as upgraded seats, steering wheels, and shift knobs, can also enhance the driving experience.
The thriving aftermarket scene for the BRZ and 86 means that there's a modification for every taste and budget. Whether you're looking to improve handling, increase power, or simply personalize your car's appearance, the options are endless. With careful planning and the right modifications, you can transform your BRZ or 86 into a truly unique and high-performing sports car.
Which One to Choose: BRZ or 86?
So, you're sold on the idea of owning one of these fantastic sports cars, but you're torn between the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota 86. The truth is, the differences between the two are relatively minor, but they can be enough to sway your decision depending on your preferences. As mentioned earlier, both cars share the same engine, chassis, and overall design. However, there are a few key distinctions to consider.
One of the main differences lies in the suspension tuning. The Subaru BRZ typically features a slightly softer suspension setup compared to the Toyota 86. This can result in a more comfortable ride on rough roads, making the BRZ a better choice for daily driving. The 86, on the other hand, often has a stiffer suspension, which can provide slightly sharper handling and better responsiveness on the track. However, the difference is subtle, and many owners find that aftermarket suspension upgrades can easily equalize the handling characteristics of both cars.
Aesthetic differences are another factor to consider. The BRZ and 86 have slightly different front and rear bumper designs, as well as different headlight and taillight configurations. These styling cues give each car a unique look, and your personal preference will likely play a role in your decision. Some people prefer the more understated and refined appearance of the BRZ, while others prefer the more aggressive and sporty look of the 86.
Another factor to consider is the availability and pricing in your local market. Depending on where you live, one model may be more readily available or offer better incentives than the other. It's worth checking with local dealerships to see what deals are available and to compare the pricing of both cars.
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 comes down to personal preference. Both cars offer the same exhilarating driving experience and are excellent platforms for modification. Consider your priorities in terms of ride comfort, styling, and availability, and choose the one that best suits your needs. You really can't go wrong with either option!
The Future: What's Next for the Twins?
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 have had a significant impact on the sports car market, and enthusiasts are always eager to know what the future holds for these beloved twins. The good news is that both Subaru and Toyota have committed to producing a second generation of the BRZ and 86, which was released for the 2022 model year. The new models feature a more powerful 2.4-liter engine, updated styling, and improved technology.
The new engine addresses one of the main criticisms of the original cars: the lack of low-end torque. The increased displacement provides a noticeable boost in power and responsiveness, making the new BRZ and 86 even more fun to drive. The updated styling gives the cars a more modern and aggressive look, while the improved technology adds convenience and enhances the driving experience.
The second-generation BRZ and 86 retain the same core principles that made the original cars so popular: lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and a focus on driving pleasure. These principles ensure that the new models continue to offer the same exhilarating driving experience that enthusiasts have come to expect.
Looking further into the future, it's possible that Subaru and Toyota may explore alternative powertrains for the BRZ and 86. Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, and it's conceivable that a future version of these sports cars could be electrified in some way. However, any future powertrain would need to maintain the same balance and driving dynamics that have made the BRZ and 86 so successful. The future of these twins looks bright, with continued innovation and a commitment to delivering an exceptional driving experience.
