Toyota GR86 vs GT86 — two names that have defined affordable rear-wheel-drive fun for more than a decade. Both coupes capture Toyota’s pure driving spirit, but which one truly delivers the better experience? In this detailed comparison, CarsTech breaks down the differences in design, performance, features, and value to help you decide which Toyota 86 deserves your garage.
Let’s dive into how Toyota GT86 vs Toyota GR86 evolved its cult-favourite coupe into one of the maximum rewarding sports cars of its generation.
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A Quick History: From GT86 to GR86
The story of Toyota GR86 vs GT86 starts over a decade ago when Toyota teamed up with Subaru to revive the spirit of the iconic AE86. In some markets, it becomes even badged because the Scion FR-S or Subaru BRZ — same heart, exceptional names.
The call “86” can pay homage to the legendary AE86 Corolla of the Eighties — a lightweight, rear-wheel-power system that defined riding a laugh for a whole generation.
Rapid-ahead to today, and the GR86 (Gazoo Racing 86) takes that philosophy and sharpens it. Think about it as Toyota’s manner of blending nostalgia with modern-day performance.
Design: Familiar Shape, Sharper Attitude
When comparing Toyota GR86 vs GT86 design, both models share the same sports coupe silhouette — but the GR86 brings a bolder, more muscular stance.
GT86: A chunk dated now, but sleek. Comes with 17-inch alloys, LED DRLs, and that classic sporty stance.
GR86: Subtle and more muscular. Complete LED lighting, a small ducktail spoiler, and non-obligatory 18-inch wheels. Diffused upgrades that make it sense extra grown-up and athletic.
Whilst the GT86’s layout has elderly gracefully, the GR86’s purifier lines and bolder stance make it appearance equipped to pounce — without the fake vents and overdone styling you see on many modern-day cars.
Performance: The Heart of the Matter
The biggest Toyota GR86 vs GT86 difference lies under the hood. The GT86’s 2.0L flat-four produces 205 hp, while the GR86 upgrades to a 2.4L engine with 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
Right here’s where things get spicy.
| Specs | Toyota GT86 | Toyota GR86 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Flat-Four | 2.4L Flat-Four |
| Power | 205 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / Auto | 6-Speed Manual / Auto |
The GR86 gains a bigger engine with noticeably greater low-quit torque — solving the GT86’s biggest grievance. The new setup makes acceleration smoother and greater thrilling, mainly on twisty roads.
The GR86’s multi-hyperlink rear suspension and restricted-slip differential make it extra composed and specific, even as the GT86 feels barely wilder — more tail-satisfied, extra raw. Both are amusing; however, the GR86 virtually blessings from Toyota’s GR (Gazoo Racing) enjoy at the track.
In short:
GT86 = conventional, playful, desires to be revved tough.
GR86 = quicker, grippier, and extra delicate — the higher day by day driver and weekend toy.
Interior: From Basic to Balanced
Inside, the Toyota GR86 vs GT86 debate continues. The GT86’s cockpit is simple and analog, appealing to purists. The GR86, on the other hand, adds modern tech like a digital display, keyless entry, and improved materials — blending nostalgia with usability.
The GR86 modernises matters with digital presentations, sharper photographs, a higher infotainment device, and gentle-contact materials, wherein it counts. It’s still not highly-priced (fortuitously), but the whole thing feels greater polished.
The small returned seats? Nonetheless slightly usable — however, hey, this automobile’s approximately using, no longer carpooling.
Pricing & Value
Used GT86: $18,000 – $28,000
New GR86: $30,800 (Base), $33 (top rate), $36,365 (Yuzu edition)
The GT86 remains one of the best used sports activities vehicle bargains nowadays — dependable, tunable, and filled with motive force engagement.
The GR86 adds that more punch, comfort, and protection tech that makes it experience well worth the extra bucks — and the fact that Toyota throws in a loose overall performance using path with each new GR86? That’s a win for enthusiasts.
GR86 vs GT86: Which One Should You Buy?
If you need a price range-friendly task automobile, the GT86 is unbeatable for the cash. It’s easy, analogue, and with no end in sight, tunable.
But if you need something music-prepared out of the field, with sharper dealing with and present-day tech, the GR86 is your vehicle. It supplies extra smiles per mile at the same time as staying true to what made the 86 so cherished — lightweight, amusing, with actual comments.
Our choose? Toyota GR86. It’s the entirety we loved about the GT86 — developed for the modern driver.
Final Thoughts:
The Toyota GR86 doesn’t reinvent the components — it perfects them. It’s sharper, faster, and greater composed, but still maintains the analogue soul alive. Whether you go for the nostalgic GT86 or the current GR86, you’re getting one of the purest driving experiences under $40K.
FAQs
Q1. Is the Toyota GR86 faster than the GT86?
Yes! The GR86’s 2.4-litre engine produces 228 hp vs the GT86’s 205 hp, slicing 0–60 instances via nearly a complete 2d.
Q2. Is the GR86 well worth upgrading to?
Suppose you need higher handling, torque, and present-day tech. It feels just like the GT86 perfected.
Q3. That is extra dependable, GR86 or GT86?
Both are built on the equal durable Toyota/Subaru platform. Reliability is extraordinary for each; however, the GR86’s more recent parts suggest fewer age-related troubles.
Q4. Are you able to drive a GR86 or GT86?
Sure — each is tremendously sensible for sports vehicles, with decent gas financial system and small lower back seats for brief trips.
Q5. Is the GR86 discontinued in Europe?
Sure, Toyota halted GR86 production in Europe due to new safety rules; however, it is to be had inside the U.S. and Asia.
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