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 T-turbo variant, equipped with a powerful twin-turbocharged inline-six engine and an automatic transmission, stands as a particularly desirable configuration, offering a blend of performance and relative ease of use.
Toyota Supra IV (A80) 3.0i 24V T-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 driven by Toyota’s desire to demonstrate its engineering prowess and create a vehicle capable of delivering a truly engaging driving experience. The 3.0i 24V T-turbo model, producing 330 horsepower, was the pinnacle of the A80 range, offering exhilarating acceleration and a high top speed. Its development focused on achieving a balanced chassis, powerful engine, and refined interior, making it a capable performer both on the track and on the road.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Supra 3.0i 24V T-turbo is the 2JZ-GTE 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is renowned for its over-engineering and ability to withstand significant power increases with relatively minor modifications. Featuring a twin-turbocharger setup with an intercooler, the 2JZ-GTE delivers 330 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Its longitudinal front engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.8 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155.34 mph (250 km/h). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 3.6 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The A80 Supra boasts a distinctive coupe body style with three doors and seating for four passengers. Its design is characterized by its sleek lines, integrated rear spoiler, and prominent headlights. The car’s aerodynamic profile was carefully sculpted to minimize drag and maximize stability at high speeds. Inside, the Supra offered a driver-focused cockpit with comfortable seating and a well-equipped dashboard. Features included power windows, power locks, and an available premium sound system. Safety features for the era included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Supra’s suspension utilizes a wishbone configuration for both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The steering system is a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion setup, offering precise control and feedback. The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheels, typically fitted with 225/50 ZR16 front and 245/50 ZR16 rear tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Supra |
| Generation | Supra IV (A80) |
| Type | 3.0i 24V T-turbo (330 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) | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg / 19.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg / 27.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg / 25.4 UK mpg) |
| 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 | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 330 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 4800 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 4800 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 | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 220 kg (485.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 185 l (6.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 317 l (11.19 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 | 2500 mm (98.43 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 |
The Toyota Supra A80, particularly the 3.0i 24V T-turbo automatic, remains a highly sought-after sports car. Its combination of performance, reliability, and tuning potential has cemented its place in automotive history. While production ended in 2002, the A80 Supra continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide, and its values have steadily increased in recent years, reflecting its enduring appeal.
