[Nlkko]

Originally Posted by Timpo

ok this is weird..

According to the chief engineer of Toyota 86, Tetsuya Tada, they were trying to avoid "high power turbo", "4WD" and "high performance tires"

why would you wanna avoid high performance tires?

Source

But the key facets of an 1180kg kerb weight, rear-wheel drive, ESP that can be fully turned off, quick steering and a limited-slip differential make it a riot in the twisty stuff. Also, the tyres are the same 17in low-resistance versions as can be found on a Prius, all the better to make sure their grip can be overcome if the mood takes you.

Also 0-60 is said to be 7 seconds.

First drive

Taking off on our allotted three test laps of the short course at Fuji speedway in Japan, we are delighted to hear and feel a strong Subaru flavour burbling its way through the cabin. Its naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine delivers lots of torque through the bottom to mid-range but could use a bit more punch at the top end. The GT 86 feels light but planted on the tarmac, and its ride is firm but not harsh. Turn-in is sharp and pinpoint and body roll minimal given the engine’s low centre of gravity. Grip levels are higher than expected with a slight tendency to understeer.

Developed to be a reasonably priced sports coupe with serious ‘drifting’ and racing capabilities, we decide to switch off the VSC and traction control units and see what happens. After dabbing the firm disc brakes to tuck the nose into a tight left-hander while holding 5,000rpm in 2nd, the initial hint of understeer is replaced by a welcome serve of tail action that requires an instant dose of opposite lock to control the slide. But given our very limited time in the car, we will reserve judgment on the car’s overall balance and whether a drift can be held for any length of time.

Toyota went on today about their (and Subaru’s) decision to build a lightweight sports car that avoided AWD, turbos and high grip tyres. The end result is a stunning first step, that’s for sure. This car is a blast to drive and will without doubt inject some much-needed adrenalin to a lacklustre lineup. But we can’t help think that enthusiasts and tuners around the world will want more power – and very soon - leading to bolted on turbos because the GT86’s. Why? Because the chassis can certainly take it.