The Toyota Supra IV (A80), produced from 1993 to 2002, represents the fourth generation of Toyota’s iconic sports car. While never officially marketed with the same fervor as its Nissan Skyline GT-R rival in the United States initially, the A80 Supra quickly gained a cult following, particularly due to its robust engine, tuning potential, and appearance in popular culture. This generation marked a significant departure from its predecessors, embracing a more modern design and sophisticated technology. The 3.0i 24V Turbo model, equipped with the 2JZ-GTE engine and an automatic transmission, stands as a particularly desirable variant, offering a compelling blend of performance and usability.
Toyota Supra IV (A80) 3.0i 24V Turbo: A Legacy of Performance
The A80 Supra was conceived as Toyota’s flagship sports car, intended to compete with established European grand tourers and Japanese performance machines. It was a project born from a desire to elevate Toyota’s image and demonstrate its engineering prowess. The fourth-generation Supra benefited from extensive development and testing, resulting in a vehicle renowned for its balance, handling, and, most notably, its potent engine options. The 3.0i 24V Turbo model, powered by the 2JZ-GTE, became the benchmark for performance within the Supra lineup.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Supra 3.0i 24V Turbo lies the 2JZ-GTE, a 3.0-liter (2997 cm3 or 182.89 cu. in.) inline-six engine. This engine is celebrated for its over-engineered construction and ability to withstand significant power increases with relatively minor modifications. The 2JZ-GTE features a sequential twin-turbocharger system with an intercooler, producing 280 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm and 432 Newton-meters (318.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3600 rpm. Power per liter is an impressive 93.4 Hp/l. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to its smooth power delivery and high-revving nature. The engine’s robust design and the availability of aftermarket parts have made it a favorite among tuners, with many examples exceeding 500 horsepower with modifications. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. The powertrain is coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 5.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 4.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 256 km/h (159.07 mph).
Design & Features
The A80 Supra features a distinctive coupe body style with three doors and seating for four passengers. Its design, while initially controversial, has aged gracefully and is now widely recognized as a classic. The car’s aerodynamic shape was honed through extensive wind tunnel testing, contributing to its stability at high speeds. The Supra’s chassis was designed for rigidity, enhancing handling and responsiveness. The suspension utilizes a wishbone configuration for both the front and rear axles. Braking is provided by ventilated discs on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The interior of the Supra 3.0i 24V Turbo is driver-focused, with well-placed controls and comfortable seating. While not laden with the advanced infotainment systems found in modern vehicles, the A80 Supra prioritized the driving experience. The trunk offers between 185 and 315 liters (6.53 to 11.12 cu. ft.) of storage space, depending on the rear seat configuration. Power steering is hydraulic, providing a responsive and connected feel to the driver.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Supra |
| Generation | Supra IV (A80) |
| Type | 3.0i 24V Turbo (280 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 256 km/h (159.07 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 432 Nm @ 3600 rpm (318.63 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2JZ-GTE |
| Engine displacement | 2997 cm3 (182.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 220 kg (485.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 185 l (6.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1275 mm (50.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm (100.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 ZR16; 245/50 ZR16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Toyota Supra IV (A80) 3.0i 24V Turbo remains a highly sought-after sports car, celebrated for its performance, tuning potential, and enduring appeal. Its legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and solidify its place as an icon in automotive history.
