The History Of Toyota Supra

The Toyota Supra was a sports car/ grand tourer produced by Toyota Motor Company from 1979 to 2002. The styling of the Toyota Supra was derived from the Toyota Celica, but it was both longer and wider. Starting in mid-1986, the Supra (in its third generation, MKIII) became its own model and was no longer based on the Celica. In turn, Toyota also stopped using the prefix Celica and began just calling the car Supra. Due to the similarity and past of the Toyota Celica's name, it is frequently mistaken for the Toyota Supra, and vice versa.

The Supra also traces much of its roots back to the Toyota 2000GT with the main instance being its engine. The first three generations were offered with a direct descendant to the 2000GT's M engine. All four generations of Supra produced have an inline 6-cylinder engine. Interior aspects were also similar.

Along with this name and car Toyota also included its own logo for the Supra. It is derived from the original Celica logo, being blue instead of orange. This logo was used until January 1986, when the MKIII Supra was introduced. The new logo was similar in size, with orange writing on a red background, but without the dragon design. That logo, in turn, was on Supras until 1991 when Toyota switched to its current oval company logo.

In 1999, Toyota ceased sales of the Supra in the United States and in 2002 Toyota officially stopped production of the Supra in Japan.

As an iconic sports car, the Supra has appeared in numerous video games, movies, music videos and TV shows. Some of the most notable appearances include the Gran Turismo and Need for Speed series of video games and the 2001 film, The Fast and the Furious.

The first generation Supra was based largely upon the Toyota Celica liftback, but was longer by 129.5mm (5.1in). The doors and rear section were shared with the Celica but the front panels were elongated to accommodate the Inline-6 instead of the stock Celica's 4-cylinder engine. Toyota's original plan for the Supra at this time was to make it a competitor to the very popular Datsun (now Nissan) Z-car.

1979

In 1978 Toyota began production of the Mark I Supra in Japan, as the Toyota Celica XX. The year it debuted in the United States and Japan was in 1979. The USA Mark I (chassis code MA46) was originally equipped with a 110hp (82kW) 2.6L (2563cc, 156cuin) 12-valve SOHC inline-6 engine (4M-E). Simultaneously in 1979, the Japanese Mark I (chassis code MA45) was offered with a 110hp (82kW) 2.0 L 12-valve SOHC inline-6 engine (M-EU). Both were the first Toyota engines equipped with electronic fuel injection.

Drivetrain options for the Mark I were either a 5-speed manual (W50) or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission (A40D). Both transmissions featured an overdrive gear. The top gear in the 5-speed was its overdrive gear whereas the automatic transmission featured an overdrive gear that would engage at speeds over 35mph (56km/ h). The drivetrain for the Supra retained the T series solid rear axle configuration of the Celica in the Japanese MA45 version and a larger F series (and optional Limited Slip Differential) in the MA46 and MA47. The car also came standard with 4-wheel disc brakes and featured a four-link rear suspension with coil springs, lateral track bar, and stabilizer bar. The front suspension consisted of MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar.

On the inside of the Supra one had an option of power windows and power locks as part of the convenience package. The convenience package also included cruise control and special door trim with door pull straps, with an optional sunroof. As for standard features, in the center console there was an extendible map light and a flip-top armrest, which provided storage. Some other features were the tilt steering wheel, deep zippered pockets on the backs of the front seats, and tonneau cover under the liftback. The dashboard also contained a state-of-the-art (at the time) AM/ FM/ MPX 4-speaker stereo radio, analog clock, and tachometer as part of the instrument panel.

1980

In 1980, the Japanese Mark I (also branded with the MA46 chassis code) was offered with a 145hp (108kW) 2L (1988cc, 121cuin) 12-valve SOHC Turbocharged inline-6 engine (M-TEU). The engine was equipped with a Garrett T03 Turbo, but was not intercooled. This was the first Toyota engine to utilize a turbocharger.

The changes for the 1980 US version were different, but mostly cosmetic. The interior received a redesigned center console and a digital quartz clock. On the exterior were redesigned side view mirrors, the 14x5.5 aluminum rims, which were optional in 1979, are now standard (the 1979s had steel rims with plastic wheel covers standard). In addition body molded mudflaps became available. On the copper metallic and white cars the mudflaps were painted the body color while the mudflaps were left black on all other colors. On the rear of the mudflaps, the word "Celica" was painted in white lettering.

The official Toyota Supra Site also notes that there was an addition of optional leather-trimmed seating and automatic climate-control.

1981

In the coming year, 1981, the Supra received an upgrade in displacement with the 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) 5M-E engine. It is still a 12-valve SOHC engine, but makes 116hp (87kW) and 145lb·ft (197N·m) of torque. The cars automatic transmission was changed to the revised Toyota A43D and it gained a revised final drive gearing. Because of the change in engine and transmission they dubbed a new chassis code of MA47. The final year of the MK I Supra it achieved a 0-60 MPH time of 10.24 seconds and finished the 1/ 4 mile in 19.5 seconds at 77.7 MPH.

Also in 1981, a new Sports Performance Package became an option, which included sport suspension, raised white letter tires, and front and rear spoilers. This also marked the last year that the 8-track cartridge was offered in any Supras.

Quick info

In 1982, Toyota completely redesigned the Celica Supra as well as the entire Celica lineup. In Japan, they were known as Celica XX, but everywhere else the Celica Supra name stuck. Still being based around the Celica platform, there were several key differences, most notably the design of the front end and fully retractable pop-up headlights. Other differences would be the inline-6 still present in the Supra instead of the inline-4 as well as an increase in length and wheel base to conform with the overall larger engine. Toyota's continued market competition with Nissan is shown by the Supra's use of a rear hatch sun shade to avoid the louvres popularly associated with the Z car.

L-type and P-type

In the North American market, the Celica Supra was available in two distinct models. There was the Performance Type (P-type henceforth) and the Luxury Type (L-type henceforth). While being mechanically identical, they were differentiated by the available options; tire sizes, wheel sizes, and body trim. The P-type had fiberglass fender flares over the wheel wells, while the L-type did not. The P-type was also standard with the more sporty 8-way adjustable seats. The P-type did not get the option of a leather interior until 1983. All editions of the P-Type had the same 14x7 aluminum alloy rims and throughout the years the L-Type had 14"x5.5" rims until 1985 when they were changed to a P-type styled 15x6. The L-type also had the option of a digital dash with trip computer, some Canadian models had this option as well as a few rare instances of American models. The digital dash featured a digital tachometer, digital speedometer, and electronic fuel level and coolant level gauges. The trip computer could calculate and display various things such as fuel economy in miles-per-gallon, estimated time of arrival (ETA), and distance remaining to destination. Excluding the 1982 model, all P-types were available with headlight washers as an option, but the L-types were never fitted with such an option. Although gear ratios changed throughout the years all P-types came as standard with a limited slip differential.

1982

In the North American market, the Celica Supra's engine was the 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) 12-valve (2 valves per cylinder) DOHC 5M-GE. Power output was 145hp (108kW) and 155lb·ft (210N·m) of torque. The engine utilized an 8.8:1 compression ratio to achieve the power and featured a vacuum advanced distributor. When the car debuted it clocked a 0-60 time of 9.8 seconds and netted a 17.2 second 1/ 4 mile at 80mph (130km/ h)

The engine had the unfortunate weakness of poor valve seals. This allowed oil to get into the combustion chamber and technically "burn oil." This was often misconstrued as having worn piston rings and needing a rebuild.

The standard transmission for this year was the W58 5-speed manual with the A43DL 4-speed automatic transmission being an option for L-types. Both transmissions featured an overdrive gear and the automatic featured a locking torque converter. The top gear in the 5-speed was its overdrive whereas the automatic transmission featured an overdrive gear that would engage at speeds over 35mph (56km/ h). The 1982 models' rear differential featured a 3.72:1 ratio. The Celica Supra's 4-wheel independent suspension was specially tuned and designed by Lotus and featured variable assisted power rack-and-pinion steering and MacPherson struts up front. As for the rear, it had semi-trailing arm suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. Braking on the Celica Supra was handled by 4-wheel disc brakes.

On the inside this generation had standard power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors as well as a tilt steering wheel. The power door lock was located in the center console next to the power mirror control. The analog dash of this year only went to 85mph (137km/ h) in North America. The optional automatic climate control on the MK I was renovated and was now seen as a standard feature on the MK II. Cruise control was standard in this generation. Toyota also included the retractable map light as standard, just like with MK I Supras. Some options included the addition of a sunroof, two-tone paint schemes, and 5-speaker AM/ FM/ MPX tuner with cassette. The optional cassette stereo featured a 105-watt power amplifier and a 7-channel graphic equalizer to control tone. The standard stereo was a 5-channel AM/ FM/ MPX tuner. Leather was an option on L-Types this year, but P-types were stuck with standard striped cloth.

As far as the outside goes there was no external antenna it was simply located in the front windshield. There was a key lock on the gas tank door and the hatch and bumper were black no matter what color the rest of the car was. The P-types were available with an optional rear sunshade above the hatch glass. The lights in the rear featured a reverse light in the center and the door handles opened the doors by pulling sideways. The front nose badge and B-pillar only read "SUPRA". Although it is believed mudflaps weren't introduced on this generation until 1983, all L-types had front and rear mudflaps.

1983

For the 1983 models not much was altered, but there was an increase in power output to: 150hp (112kW) and 159lb·ft (216N·m) of torque from the same 5M-GE. The only real change in the engine area was the switch to an electronic advanced distributor, yet that did not increase the power. Toyota switched to a 4.10:1 rear gear ratio for the P-Type and a 3.73:1 for the L-Type. As for the optional automatic transmission they switched out the A43DL 4-speed for a newly designed A43DE 4-speed. It featured an electronic controller that would adjust its shift pattern for a balance between performance and economy. It was the first in the industry to provide an "Electronically Controlled Transmission" (ECT). This allowed the driver to choose either the "Power" driving mode or "Normal" driving mode at the touch of the button. The "Power" mode provided the quickest acceleration and the "Normal" mode provided the best all-around performance.

On the inside of the car there were virtually no changes, but on the outside they decided to switch to a power antenna and it was the first year both the P-Type and L-Type had standard mudflaps. The B-pillar and nose badge were changed to say "Celica Supra" now and only L-Types were available in two-tone color schemes.

1984

In 1984, Toyota changed quite a bit on the Supra. Power output was increased on the 5-speed models with a bump up to 160hp (119kW) and 163lb·ft (221N·m) of torque. The increase was achieved by a mixture of a redesigned intake manifold with "D"-shaped intake runners and an increase in compression ratio to: 9.2:1. Another notable change in the 5-speeds was the switch to a 4.30:1 gear ratio in the rear differential. All automatic Supra's retained the previous years power numbers, but the rear gear ratio was changed to a 4.10:1.

The most notable exterior change was the switch to wraparound front turn signals. Also on the outside the tail-lights were redesigned and the hatch received a billboard "SUPRA" sticker instead of the smaller sticker, which was previously positioned on the right. The rear hatch and bumper was changed and received the same color as the rest of the car (instead of the black of previous years). The door handles were also switched around, opening by pulling up instead of sideways. This year Toyota also decided to offer two-tone paint schemes on both the P-Type and L-Type.

Some interior controls such as the steering wheel, cruise control, and door lock switch were redesigned. Toyota encompassed a 130mph (210km/ h) speedometer instead of the traditional 85mph (137km/ h) one and the automatic climate control display was also changed. The previous year's cassette/ equalizer stereo option was now made a standard feature.

1985-1986

The Supra was altered again in 1985. On the engine side, power output was increased to 161hp (120kW) and 169lb·ft (229N·m) of torque. The good news was that all Supras this year had that same amount of power (both automatics and 5-speeds). The engine received a redesigned throttle position sensor (TPS) as well as a new EGR system and knock sensor. With the slight increase in power the Supra was able to propel itself from 0-60 MPH in 8.4 seconds and netting a 16.1 second quarter mile at 85mph (137km/ h).

Other changes would be a redesigned, more "integrated" sunshade and spoiler on the rear hatch. The rear spoiler was changed from a one piece to a two piece spoiler. Oddly the L-types of this year were not available with a leather interior, but P-types were. Toyota added a standard factory theft deterrent system and the outside mirrors were equipped with a defogger that activated with the rear defroster. All Supras this year received automatic-off lights that also encompassed an automatic illuminated entry and fade-out system.

While 1985 was to be the last year of the second generation model, delays in production of the third generation model led to a surplus of second generation Supras. During the first half of 1986 the 1985 MK II P-type was still offered for sale, with only minor cosmetic changes as well as the addition of a now mandatory rear-mounted third brake light on the hatch. These were all labelled officially as 1986 models. P-types were the only model available in 1986.

MK IIs around the world

The second generation Supra came in a variety of options around the world as well as only being offered during select years.

Most of Europe

• Sold from 1982-1986.
  • 82-83: 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE 174hp (130kW) and 207lb·ft (281N·m) of torque. Analog dash, no fender flares.
  • 84-86: 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE 178hp (133kW) and 212lb·ft (287N·m) of torque. Digital dash, P-Type fender flares.

Great Britain

• Sold from 1982-1986.
  • 82-83: 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE 178hp (133kW) and 212lb·ft (287N·m) of torque. Analog dash, no fender flares.
  • 84-86: 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE 178hp (133kW) and 212lb·ft (287N·m) of torque. Digital dash, P-Type fender flares.

Australia, Sweden, & Switzerland

• Sold from 1984-1986.
  • 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) SOHC 5M-E 140PS (103kW; 138hp) and 167lb·ft (226N·m) of torque.
  • The Supra in Australia was sold from 1983-1986 had a digital dash, fender flares, 14x7" wheels, 84 style lights, single piece spoiler, LSD and optional sunroof. This was the only variant and no L Types were offered.
• In Australia, the Toyota Supra manufactured between 1982-1990, was assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings 2006 as providing "worse than average" protection for its occupants in the event of a crash.

New Zealand

• Sold from 1984-1985
  • 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE 178hp (133kW) and 212lb·ft (287N·m) of torque. Digital dash, P-Type fender flares.

Japan

Further information: Toyota Celica XX

Quick info

In the middle of 1986, Toyota was ready to release its next version of the Supra. The official model year is designated as 1986.5. The bonds between the Celica and the Supra were cut; they were now two completely different models. The Celica changed to front wheel drive, while the Supra kept its rear wheel drive platform. Though the Mark II and Mark III had similar designs, the engine was updated to a more powerful 3.0 200hp (149kW) inline 6. Although only available in naturally aspirated trim in 1986.5, a turbocharged version of the engine was introduced in the 1987 model year. The Supra was now related mechanically to the Toyota Soarer for the Japanese market.

The new Mark III Supra engine, the 7M-GE, was the flagship engine of Toyota's arsenal. Both versions of the engine contained 4 valves per cylinder and dual overhead cams. The turbocharged 7M-GTE engine was Toyota's first distributor-less engine offered in the U.S which used coil packs sitting on the cam covers and a cam position sensor off of the exhaust camshaft. It was equipped with a CT26 turbocharger and was rated at 230hp (172kW) at 5600 RPM while the naturally-aspirated 7M-GE engine was rated at 200hp (149kW) at 6000 RPM. Further refinement on the turbo model increased power to 232hp (173kW) and 254lb·ft (344N·m) in 1989. This was mostly due to a redesign of the wastegate.

The naturally aspirated came as standard issue with the W58 manual transmission. The turbo versions included the more robust R154 manual transmission. Both were available with the optional 4-speed A340E automatic transmission.

During the year of 1989, the car received new tail lights, a front bumper, steering wheel, lower redline (due to the heavier crank with cylinders 2 & 5 counterbalanced), badging and side trim amongst other features. Modifications to the wastegate actuator, feed location and engine management netted another 2hp (1kW) on the turbo model. The engine mount and brace were also changed so it could accommodate the 1JZ engine for Japan models. Fortunately, this also allowed the 2JZ engine to be put in since they both use the same engine mounts. The protective body molding was also changed by taking away the steel reinforcement. This made the molding lighter and prevented the rusting problem on the previous years. For the 1991 model year, the wheel design was changed to 5-spoke wheels. Both models wore 16x7 aluminum alloy wheels that were fitted with 225/ 50/ 16 tires and full-sized spares on steel wheels. It was also the last Supra to come with hood struts and a full-sized spare wheel since they added weight.

The Supra was also available in two non-export models in Japan, the JZA70 with a 2.5 L 280hp (209kW) twin-turbo 1JZ-GTE, known as 2.5GT Twin Turbo (JZA70), and the GA70 with a 2.0 L 210hp (157kW) twin-turbo 1G-GTE and non turbo 1G-GEU .

A special version of the 1JZ-GTE equipped JZA70, the 2.5 Twin Turbo R, had black/ gray Recaro seats, a Torsen differential, additional braces to mount the diff, Bilstein suspension and uprated springs, Momo wheel and gear knob and matching interior trim. This was the fastest factory production version of the Mk3 Supra, running a mid 14 second 1/ 4 mile. This model had no ABS and was the lightest of all the MK3 supras.

The third-generation Supra represented a great deal of new technology. In 1986, options available for the Supra included 4-channel ABS and TEMS (Toyota Electronically Modulated Suspension) which gave the driver 2 settings which affected the damper rates; a third was automatically activated at WOT, hard braking, and high speed maneuvering. HKS also made a "TEMS Controller" to hack the system and activate it on the fly, though the controllers are now nearly impossible to find.

ACIS (Acoustic Controlled Induction System), a method of controlling air compression pulses inside the intake piping to increase power, was also apart of the 7M-GE's technological arsenal. All models were fitted with double wishbone suspensions front and rear. A targa top was offered along with a metal power sliding sunroof (added in '91).

The 7M-GTE MA71's top speed is 156mph (251km/ h). Due to an extremely restrictive exhaust, the 7M responds very well to exhaust modifications; often yielding 10hp (7kW) more by switching to a 'divorced downpipe' (where rather than blocking off an exit for the wastegated exhaust, it gives the gas its own pipe to flow through) and full 3" diameter exhaust.[citation needed]

Turbo A

The Turbo-A was Toyota's evolution model for Group A touring car championships all over the world which required a minimum of 500 which were only sold in Japan and was produced between August and September 1987. Some noted differences between the standard Supra and the Turbo-A model are both cosmetic and some mechanical. The front nose features the ducting to cool the engine, the badging 'turboA' and a Black paint job (all 500 are black). The engine bay features a 287hp (214kW) 7M-GTEU. All Turbo-As also came standard with leather interior.

The car did not win as many races as hoped, being a 3.0 L it was forced to run with more weight where the R32 Skyline GTR didn't have the same restriction and was soon outmoded by the latter when it made its debut in 1990. For the JTCC Toyota would in 1991 switched to racing AE111 Corolla Levins in the lower category until the series final year in 1993. However in the less 'limited' racing it did considerably better.

Quick info

With the fourth generation of the Supra, Toyota took a big leap in the direction of a more serious high performance car. Production started in December 1992 with only 20 models, but started mass production in April 1993. Refer to the New Zealand Mkiv Supra websitefor detailed Japanese mkiv Supra production numbers from December 1992 to August 2002. The new Supra was completely redesigned, with rounded body styling and featured two new engines: a naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE producing 220hp (160kW; 220PS) at 5800 rpm and 210ft·lb (280N·m) at 4800 rpm of torque and a twin turbocharged 2JZ-GTE making 280hp (209kW; 284PS) and 318ft·lb (431N·m) of torque for the Japanese version. For the export model (America/ Europe) Toyota upgraded the Supra turbo's engine (smaller, steel wheeled turbochargers, bigger fuel injectors, etc.). This increased the power output to 320hp (240kW; 320PS) at 5600 rpm and 315ft·lb (427N·m) at 4000 rpm. The turbocharged variant could achieve 0–60 mph in as low as 4.6 seconds and 1/ 4 mile (402 m) in 13.1 seconds at 109mph (175km/ h) . The turbo version was tested to reach over 291km/ h (181mph) all-stock, but the cars are restricted to just 180km/ h (112mph) in Japan and 250km/ h (155mph) elsewhere. European versions also had an air intake on the bonnet (hood). Drag coefficient is .31 for the naturally aspirated models and .32 for the turbo models and N/ A's with the rear spoiler.

The MKIV Supra's twin turbos operated in sequential mode instead of the more common parallel mode. The sequential setup featured a pair of CT-12b turbos (for the usdm market, JDM market was CT20/ Ct20A with variations- some are ceramic- notorious, some are not. For UK and USDM market steel blades (CT-12b).

Some differences in the OEM twin turbo JDM and USDM/ UKDM JZA80 turbine setups include:

JDM (CT20) has 3 bolt flanges for turbo to header. USDM/ UKDM (CT12) is 4 bolt JDM (CT20) has no pressure bypass X-over pipe, USDM/ UKDM (CT12) does JDM (CT20) has oval exhaust header to turbo ports and 3" downpipe, some are 2 bolt, some are 3 bolt. USDM/ UKDM (CT12) has 4" downpipe outlet, full bore round ports from exhaust header to turbo

supposedly both setups are rebuildable from garrett or other parts bin similarities with machining, some rebuilds are better than others.

Initially all of the exhaust is routed to the first turbine for reduced lag. This resulted in boost and enhanced torque as early as 1800 rpm. Approaching 3500 RPM, some of the exhaust is routed to the second turbine for a "pre-boost" mode, although none of the compressor output is used by the engine at this point. Approaching 4000 RPM, the second turbo's output is used to augment the first turbo's output. As opposed to the parallel mode, the sequential turbos provides quicker low RPM response and increased high RPM boost. The valve seal problem was back from the Mark II engines. Another weakness is the engine mounts.

For this generation, the Supra received a new 6-speed Getrag/ Toyota V160 gearbox on the Turbo models while the naturally aspirated models made do with a 5-speed manual W58, revised from the previous version. Both models were offered with a 4-speed automatic with a manumatic mode. However, the turbo model utilized larger 4-piston brake calipers on the front and 2-piston calipers for the rear. The base model used smaller 2-piston calipers for the front and a single piston caliper for the rear. The turbo models were fitted with 235/ 45/ 17 tires on the front and 255/ 40/ 17 tires for the rear. The base model used 225/ 50/ 16 for the front and 245/ 50/ 16 for the rears. All vehicles were equipped with 5-spoke aluminium alloy wheels and a "donut" spare tire on a steel wheel to save weight and space. Additionally, there are other differences in the rear axle differential, headlight assemblies, throttle body, oil cooler and a myriad of additional sensors that exist on the turbo model which do not exist on the normally aspirated model.

Toyota took measures to reduce the weight of the current model compared to the previous model. Aluminium was used for the hood, targa top (if so equipped), front crossmember, oil and transmission pans, and the suspension upper A-arms. Other measures included dished out head bolts, hollow carpet fibers, magnesium steering wheel, plastic gas tank and lid, gas injected rear spoiler, and a single pipe exhaust. Despite having more features such as dual airbags, traction control, larger brakes, larger wheels, larger tires, and an additional turbo, the car was at least 200lb (91kg) lighter than its predecessor. The base model with a manual transmission had a curb weight of 3,210lb (1,460kg). The Sport Roof added 40lb (18kg) while the automatic transmission added 55lb (25kg). It had 51% of its weight up front and 49% to the rear wheels. The turbo model came in as 3,505lb (1,590kg) with the manual and the automatic added another 10lb (4.5kg). The front wheels held 53% of the weight and the rear wheels had 47% of the weight.

For the 1996 model year in the U.S., the turbo model was only available with the automatic transmission due to OBD-II certification requirements. The targa roof was made standard on all turbo models. For 1997, the manual transmission returned for the optional engine along with a redesign of the tail lights, headlights, front fascia, chromed wheels, and other minor changes such as the radio and steering wheel designs. The SZ-R model was also updated with the introduction of a six-speed Getrag V161 transmission, the same used for the twin-turbo RZ models. All 1997 models included badges that said "Limited Edition 15th Anniversary." For 1998, the radio and steering wheel were redesigned once again. The naturally aspirated engine was enhanced with VVT-i which raised the output by 5hp (4kW; 5PS) and 10ft·lbf (14N·m) of torque. The turbo model was not available in California, New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts due to increased emission regulations.[citation needed] In Japan, the turbo engines were installed with VVT-i as well.

The stock MKIV Supra chassis has also proven an effective platform for roadracing, with several top 20 and top 10 One Lap Of America finishes in the SSGT1 class. The Supra is one of the heavier 2-door Japanese sports cars, however still lighter than the Skyline R33 GT-R, while only being slightly heavier than the R32 GT-R and the R34 GT-R (to which the Supra is traditionally a rival in its home country). The Supra was also lighter than the Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 and the Nissan 300ZX Turbo. Despite its curb weight, in 1994 the MKIV managed a remarkable skidpad rating of 0.95 lateral g's (200ft) or 0.98 lateral g's (300ft) due in part to a four-sensor four-channel track tuned ABS system with yaw control whereby each caliper is sensored and the brakes are controlled individually according to the speed, angle, and pitch of the approaching corner. This unique Formula One inspired braking system allowed the Supra Turbo to record a 70mph (110km/ h) -0 braking distance of 149feet (45m) , the best braking performance of any production car tested in 1997 by Car and Driver magazine. This record was finally broken in 2004 by 3feet (0.91m) by a Porsche Carrera GT.

Due to the strength of the stock non turbo engine, the 2JZ series 1994-1996 has remained a popular import platform for modification. The non-turbo cars were capable of going from 0-100 km/ h in as few as 6.2 seconds and had 220hp (160kW; 220PS) from the factory.

Sales to Canada were ceased in 1997 (there were no 1996 Celicas), and in the US in 1998. Production continued in Japan until August 2002, ceasing due to restrictive emission standards to be adhered to by 2003.

Throughout the past couple of years, major print and online auto publications have hinted at a possible revival of the Supra, pointing the car in different directions. The vehicle was originally thought to be the flagship or halo model in the Toyota lineup, be powered by a high output V8, and have an estimated cost anywhere between $50,000 and $70,000. Other rumors hint at a V10 F1-inspired powerplant, like the current BMW M5 and M6, though 2006 saw F1 engines change to V8s. Power is 500bhp (373kW; 507PS) or more, as this was likely due to the increasing number of sighting of a high performance sports car being tested throughout Europe and, more specifically, on the Nürburgring. These vehicles turned out to be the test mules for Lexus' future Lexus LF-A.

Topspeed.com was among a number of publications that claimed that there will be a return of the Supra in 2008 but Toyota disclaimed this rumor on August 15, 2006. The same numerous publications that originally speculated on a future Supra all stated no new vehicle was being developed. According to an AutoWeek article on current and upcoming Toyota vehicles, all rumors on the Supra's return are false. Automotive News also claim Toyota has absolutely no plans for a Supra in the future.

" All the rumors of the two-passenger sports car's return are false." - Automotive News

The Toyota FT-HS (Future Toyota-Hybrid Sport), which debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, was stated to be a concept for a vehicle that could fill the gap in Toyota's line-up left by the Supra. According to Automobile Magazine, Toyota is planning to launch a production version of the FT-HS in 2009. Toyota has yet to make an official announcement so it is unknown if it will wear the Supra nameplate. A January 2009 article from Edmunds Inside Line states that "the V6 Supra replacement is still in the pipeline and is set for an early 2011 debut".

Main article: Toyota Supra in motorsport

• The MK II, with its all-new design, quickly became a success in the US where it was awarded the Import Car of the Year by Motor Trend. It also made Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1983 and 1984.
• In 1994, the MK IV Supra won Popular Mechanics "Design & Engineering awards".

• 1979 - Celica Supra MK I introduced with 2.6L (2563cc, 156cuin) SOHC 4M-E I6 engine.
• 1981 - MK I engine displacement upped to 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) with SOHC 5M-E I6 engine.
• 1982 - MK II Celica Supra introduced with a 2.8L (2759cc, 168cuin) DOHC 5M-GE I6 engine.
• 1986 - 1986.5 MK III Supra introduced on its own platform with 3L (2954cc, 180cuin) DOHC 7M-GE I6 engine.
• 1987 - Option of turbocharger to 3L (2954cc, 180cuin) DOHC 7M-GTE engine that produces 230hp (172kW) 245lb·ft (332N·m).
• 1989 - Restyled. Turbo power increase to 232hp (173kW) & 250lb·ft (339N·m).
• 1993 - 1993.5 MK IV Supra introduced with 3L (2997cc, 183cuin) turbo (2JZ-GTE) or non-turbo (2JZ-GE) DOHC engine.
• 1996 - Turbo only available with Automatic transmission due to OBD2 certification requirements. Targa roof standard on all Turbo models.
• 1997 - Manual transmission available on turbo models. Restyled. All 1997 labeled as 15th Anniversary model. Japanese production stopped in September.
• 1998 - Slight restyling of interior. VVT-i on non-turbo models which increased power. Turbos not available in states that require California emissions.
• 1999 - Export of MK IV Toyota Supra halted in the U.S., production in Japan continues.
• 2002 - Production of MK IV Toyota Supra halts.