The Toyota Supra MK4 (A80) is one of the most iconic Japanese sports cars of all time, revered for its performance, engineering, and tuning potential. Produced between 1993 and 2002, the fourth-generation Supra became a legend in the automotive world, partly due to its starring role in movies like The Fast and the Furious and its use in motorsport. But its reputation primarily comes from its potent engine, advanced technology for its time, and timeless design.
Here’s an in-depth look at the Toyota Supra MK4:
1. Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Supra MK4's fame is its engine. Toyota offered two main engine options globally:
1. 2JZ-GTE (Twin-Turbo)
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3.0-liter inline-six (6-cylinder) engine, known as the 2JZ-GTE.
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Twin-turbocharged: The engine uses sequential twin turbos, providing an excellent mix of power and drivability. The smaller turbo spools up first for low-end response, while the larger turbo kicks in at higher RPMs for more power.
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Power Output: In stock form, the engine produced 276 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque (Japan) due to the "Gentleman's Agreement" limiting horsepower. However, the U.S. version was rated at 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque.
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Performance:
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0-60 mph in around 4.6 seconds.
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Top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited).
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Tuning Potential: The 2JZ-GTE engine is legendary for its over-engineered design, meaning it can handle massive power upgrades without requiring extensive internal modifications. With simple bolt-on upgrades (such as a single larger turbo and fueling modifications), these engines can reliably produce 600-800 horsepower, and with more significant tuning, they can achieve 1,000 horsepower or more.
2. 2JZ-GE (Naturally Aspirated)
- The non-turbo version of the same 3.0-liter inline-six engine, the 2JZ-GE, was also available, producing 220 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque.
- While less powerful than the turbocharged model, the naturally aspirated Supra still offered a solid performance, but it's often less desired than the turbo variant in the performance car community.
Transmission Options:
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6-speed manual (Getrag V160): The most desirable option, especially for enthusiasts. The 6-speed manual transmission paired with the twin-turbo engine makes for an exhilarating driving experience.
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4-speed automatic: Also available, especially on the non-turbo models. While not as thrilling as the manual, the automatic Supra still offered strong performance.
2. Chassis and Handling
The Supra MK4 was more than just a straight-line performer; it was engineered with a balance between power, handling, and refinement. The car's design emphasized stability and control, making it a formidable sports car on winding roads and tracks.
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Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout (FR): The Supra used a traditional sports car layout, with the engine up front and power sent to the rear wheels, delivering a balanced and engaging driving experience.
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Suspension:
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Double wishbone suspension at both the front and rear, offering exceptional handling and responsiveness.
- Adjustable Toyota Electronically Modulated Suspension (TEMS) on some models, which allowed the driver to select between softer or firmer suspension settings.
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Weight:
- The Supra was relatively heavy for a sports car, weighing between 3,400 and 3,600 lbs, depending on the configuration.
- Despite the weight, its 50:50 weight distribution and low center of gravity helped it achieve impressive handling dynamics.
3. Design and Aerodynamics
The MK4 Supra is instantly recognizable due to its sleek, aggressive, and timeless design.
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Exterior Design:
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Curved bodywork with prominent front and rear fenders.
- The rear wing (optional) became iconic and was not only for aesthetics but also contributed to downforce and high-speed stability.
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Pop-up headlights in earlier models, which were replaced by fixed headlights in later models (after 1996).
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Removable targa roof: Some models came with a targa top (removable roof), allowing for a semi-convertible experience.
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Aerodynamics:
- The Supra MK4 was designed with wind tunnel testing to achieve a low drag coefficient of 0.32.
- The car’s front lip and rear wing worked together to reduce lift at high speeds, enhancing stability.
4. Interior and Technology
For its time, the Supra offered a blend of sportiness and luxury inside the cabin.
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Driver-Oriented Layout: The dashboard and controls are angled toward the driver, giving a cockpit-like feel. The driver’s seat was designed with deep bolstering to keep you in place during spirited driving.
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Quality Materials: The MK4 featured high-quality materials, with options like leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats.
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Advanced Technology (for the time):
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Digital displays for performance data, including a boost gauge (on turbo models).
- Optional premium sound system (JBL), and climate control.
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Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags, which were considered advanced in the early 90s.
5. Legacy and Tuning Culture
The Toyota Supra MK4 became a legend not only because of its stock performance but also because of its immense tuning potential. Thanks to the robust design of the 2JZ-GTE engine, enthusiasts found that the Supra could be easily modified to handle astronomical power levels, far beyond what it produced from the factory.
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Aftermarket Support: The Supra MK4 has one of the largest and most dedicated communities in the world, with extensive aftermarket parts available for everything from engine performance, body kits, wheels, suspension, and more.
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Tuning Icon: It’s not uncommon to see heavily modified Supras making over 1,000 horsepower, especially in the drag racing and street racing communities. The car’s appearance in pop culture, particularly in The Fast and the Furious franchise, only bolstered its fame.
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Motorsport and Drift: The Supra has also made a name for itself in motorsports, particularly in drag racing, time attack, and drifting due to its reliable powertrain and rear-wheel-drive layout.
