Toyota GR86's 0-60 Time: Great for its price

By: Max F. Arellano / February 12, 2024

The GR86's 0-60 time is often praised given its price point, clocking in at just 5.6 seconds despite its modest $30,000 MSRP.

In fact, it's so widely acclaimed that when it debuted in the UK, it sold out in just 90 minutes.

While Toyota may have created a great product, they have not been the best about naming it, with the GR86 having 3 different names in the past decade.

In this article, we'll clear up any confusion, look at its acceleration throughout the years, and compare it to its main rival, the MX-5 Miata.

Scion FR-S

The story begins with the launch of the Scion FR-S in 2012, a result of a unique collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

This partnership aimed to create a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car that prioritized handling and driver enjoyment over raw power.

The FR-S, standing for "Front-engine, Rear-wheel-drive, Sport," was introduced under Toyota's now-discontinued Scion brand in North America, catering to a younger demographic with a blend of affordability, style, and performance.

Powered by a 2.0-liter boxer engine developed by Subaru, producing around 200 horsepower, the FR-S was celebrated for its balanced chassis, engaging driving dynamics, and accessible performance.

   

The earlier FR-S models had a 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds in the manual, with a sluggish 8.1 seconds for the automatic variant. Notably, the 2016 models were slower, as Toyota swapped out the summer tires for all-season tires, which decreased performance.

The original FR-S was just $24,500 when it debuted in 2013, which would put it in the 81st percentile as far as price goes.

Most cars that achieved a 6 second 0-60 time around this time cost well into the $30,000 range, giving the FR-S exceptional value, a trend that would continue throughout its lifecycle.

Scion FR-S 0-60 Times

Toyota 86

In 2016, as Toyota decided to phase out the Scion brand, the FR-S was rebadged and reintroduced as the Toyota 86 in North America for the 2017 model year, aligning with the global market where it was already known as the 86 (or GT86 in some regions).

The name "86" paid homage to the Toyota AE86, a cult classic renowned for its lightweight design, balanced handling, and drift capability.

With the transition, the Toyota 86 received minor aesthetic updates and a slight bump in power for manual transmission models, now producing 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, thanks to revised intake and exhaust systems.

The 2017 model saw a return to acceleration in the low 6's, with the automatic variant remaining significantly slower than the manual.

The minor increase in horsepower did not ultimately result in a time that was faster than the original FR-S, and the 86 did start to face criticism for its modest power output, while still being praised for its affordability and general driving experience.

Toyota 86 0-60 Times

Toyota GR86

The most recent chapter in this saga is the introduction of the Toyota GR86 for the 2022 model year, marking the second generation of this sports car lineage.

The "GR" in its name stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota's motorsports and performance division, signifying a greater emphasis on performance and racing heritage.

The GR86 received a significant upgrade in the form of a new 2.4-liter flat-four engine, boosting output to 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, addressing one of the main critiques of its predecessors—the desire for more power.

   

Alongside the enhanced engine, the GR86 features improved body rigidity, a refined suspension setup, and updated styling that sharpens its sports car appeal. Despite these upgrades, the GR86 remains true to the original ethos of the FR-S and 86—offering an affordable, engaging, and pure driving experience.

The GR86's 0-60 time is again dependent on which transmission the car is equipped with, with the manual version getting there in a now competitive 5.6 seconds, and the automatic at 6.3 seconds, equalling the original manual variant of the FR-S.

So where does this place the GR86's 0-60 time in absolute terms?

In 2022, the year in which it was released, it would be in the 78th percentile, faster than a VW Golf GTI, but slower than an entry-level Camaro LS.

Like the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S before it, the GR86 provides exceptional performance for its price.

Toyota GR86 0-60 Times

GR86 vs Mazda MX-5 Miata

The GR86 is most often compared to the Mazda Miata, given that they are both affordable, lightweight sports cars. So let's how it stacks up.

   

In the 2019 iteration, the Mazda Miata MX-5 not only introduced its most refined engine to date but also made a significant leap in performance, aligning itself squarely with the Toyota GR86 in terms of acceleration prowess.

This model year marked the debut of an enhanced powertrain, propelling the Miata from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds when equipped with a manual transmission.

Notably, the Miata's appeal extends beyond its performance metrics to include the choice between a soft top convertible and a slightly slower hardtop variant, the RF (Retractable Fastback), which adds a mere 0.1 seconds to the 0-60 time due to its additional weight.

   

The automatic version of the 2019 Miata trails its manual counterpart, achieving a 0 to 60 time of 6.5 seconds, which, interestingly, positions it below the automatic GR86.

This comparison highlights the nuanced trade-offs between manual and automatic transmissions in sports cars, with the manual versions typically offering quicker acceleration due to more direct driver control over shifting.

   

From a financial perspective, the entry-level Miata Sport trim is competitively priced at around $30,000, mirroring the GR86 and emphasizing the value proposition from an acceleration standpoint. This price point makes both vehicles accessible to enthusiasts seeking performance without a prohibitive cost.

   

Delving into the Miata's lineage, the 2016 Club variant, a performance-focused trim, previously showcased acceleration capabilities slightly surpassing those of the Toyota 86, clocking a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.0 seconds.

Both offer similar performance for a similar price and have exceptional reviews. It's hard to pick a decisive winner, but the GR86 is ever so slightly faster according to the reports, and has a more appealing design, and apparently has better handling as well.

Now I've never driven either of these cars, but given the information I have, my impression is that the GR86 is ever so slightly better.

How can I improve the GR86's 0-60 time?

While getting to 60 in less than 6 seconds can be seen as more than adequate for most drivers, it still is much slower than other performance-oriented cars, such as the V8 muscle cars, and also lags behind most luxury sports sedans. So you might be wondering what can be done to improve its acceleration.

   

       
1. Lightweight Wheels (and Tires): Lighter wheels reduce unsprung weight, which can improve acceleration, handling, and braking performance. Additionally, choosing high-performance tires with a stickier compound and wider contact patch can enhance traction, allowing for quicker launches and better grip during acceleration.        
       
2. Upgraded Brakes: High-performance brake components, such as larger rotors, calipers, and brake pads, can improve stopping power and reduce braking distances. While not directly affecting acceleration, improved braking performance can help maximize speed into and out of corners, ultimately contributing to overall performance and lap times.        
3. Performance Exhaust: Installing a performance exhaust system can reduce exhaust backpressure, improve engine airflow, and increase horsepower and torque. Additionally, a lighter aftermarket exhaust system can contribute to weight reduction, further enhancing acceleration and overall performance.        
4. Lightweight Battery: Swapping out the stock battery with a lightweight lithium-ion battery can reduce overall vehicle weight, contributing to improved power-to-weight ratio and acceleration. However, the weight savings from a lightweight battery may be relatively modest compared to other modifications.        
   

   

By implementing these modifications collectively, you can reduce the vehicle's overall weight, improve engine efficiency, and optimize traction and grip, all of which can contribute to faster acceleration and improved 0-60 times for the Toyota GR86. Additionally, it's essential to ensure that any modifications are installed correctly and do not compromise the vehicle's reliability or safety.

Conclusion

The GR86 is an excellent choice for those seeking impressive performance without breaking the bank, especially for enthusiasts who prefer manual transmission. However, if you desire a convertible, the MX-5 Miata offers a perfect alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the GR86 use to achieve its 0-60 time?

The GR86 is equipped with a 2.4-liter Subaru Boxer engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Is the GR86 0-60 time different for manual and automatic transmissions?

Yes, the GR86's 0-60 time may vary slightly depending on whether it has a manual or automatic transmission. The manual transmission version has a significantly faster 0-60 time across all generations of GR86, usually between half a second to 2 seconds faster.

What is the difference between the BRZ and the GR86

The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, while nearly identical in terms of mechanics and performance, differentiate themselves through subtle styling cues, brand-specific tuning, and equipment offerings.

The GR86 leans towards a slightly more aggressive design and is tuned for a bit more rear-wheel drive dynamism, embodying Toyota's Gazoo Racing spirit.

In contrast, the BRZ, with its nuanced Subaru styling and a focus on balanced handling, caters to enthusiasts who appreciate Subaru's precision engineering.

How does the GR86's 0-60 time compare to other sports cars?

The GR86's 0-60 time is impressive and competitive among other sports cars in its class. It outperforms the Mazda MX-5 Miata slightly but falls slightly behind the WRX and Camaro LS.

Can the GR86 achieve a faster 0-60 time with modifications?

Yes, with the right modifications and upgrades, it is possible to improve the GR86's 0-60 time even further. However, it is important to note that these modifications may void the car's warranty and should be done carefully and by a professional.