Why are Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ the Same?
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are two highly popular sports cars that have taken the market by storm. However, many people are unaware that these two vehicles are essentially the same car with different badges. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this and why it makes perfect sense.
The Joint Venture
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are both the result of a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru. The two automakers teamed up to produce a lightweight sports car that would appeal to enthusiasts and even average drivers looking for a fun and practical car.
The partnership allowed both companies to take advantage of their unique strengths. Toyota is known for producing reliable and efficient vehicles, while Subaru is known for its expertise in engineering and all-wheel drive technology. The combination of these skills led to the creation of the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ.
The Shared Platform
One of the main reasons why the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are practically the same car is the shared platform. Both vehicles are built on the same lightweight platform, which was developed by Subaru. This allowed both companies to save on development costs and produce a car that is both light and agile.
Additionally, both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ feature a rear-wheel-drive layout, which further enhances their sporty characteristics. However, there are some differences in terms of exterior and interior styling, as well as some minor performance upgrades.
The Same Engine
Another reason why the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are essentially the same car is the engine. Both vehicles are powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, which was developed by Subaru. The engine produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to provide an exhilarating driving experience.
However, there are some differences in terms of tuning and ECU programming, which gives the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ slightly different driving characteristics. The Toyota 86 is tuned to deliver a sportier and more responsive driving experience, while the Subaru BRZ is geared towards a more balanced and precise handling.
The Benefits of the Joint Venture
The joint venture between Toyota and Subaru has resulted in several benefits for both companies. Firstly, both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ have been highly successful in their respective markets. The vehicles have received numerous awards and accolades for their performance and overall value.
Secondly, the partnership has allowed both companies to learn from each other and improve their expertise. Toyota has gained valuable knowledge in engineering and all-wheel drive technology, while Subaru has benefited from Toyota’s expertise in reliability and quality control.
The Bottom Line
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are essentially the same car with different badges. The joint venture between Toyota and Subaru has allowed both companies to produce a lightweight sports car that is both fun to drive and practical. Despite some minor differences in terms of performance and styling, both vehicles offer an exhilarating driving experience and exceptional value.
