Since transitioning from the 3.0 GR Supra to the GR86, a recurring question has been: “Do you regret it?” This, along with frequent requests for a comparison between the two, suggests a need to formalize my thoughts on these distinct vehicles. For those contemplating either car, or viewing the Supra Gr as a potential upgrade from the GR86, this detailed comparison should offer valuable insights.
Fundamentally, it’s crucial to understand that the GR Supra and GR86 are fundamentally different machines.
The Supra GR embodies the spirit of a sporty GT car. While its design clearly echoes sports car aesthetics, the driving dynamics lean towards a blend of sport and grand touring. Think less Porsche Cayman and more Jaguar F-Type. The undeniable highlight of the Supra GR is its powertrain. Even in its factory configuration, the engine is potent. With a modest tune, it becomes even more formidable. Pushing further with serious modifications to 500hp and beyond unlocks genuine supercar-level performance. Controversially, the ZF automatic gearbox, in my opinion, complements the engine exceptionally well. While the manual transmission undoubtedly holds appeal for purists, it wouldn’t be my personal preference. The engine’s characteristics don’t necessitate constant gear changes; whether in 3rd or 6th gear, the performance remains readily accessible. The Supra GR excels on open A-roads and motorways. Among “sports cars,” few rival its blend of two-seat practicality, comfort, and performance in such environments – and I’ve driven a vast array of vehicles. However, the Supra GR’s limitations become apparent on B-roads, which is a primary reason I never fully connected with it. While undeniably fast and capable, a subtle disconnect between driver and car proves somewhat frustrating. This characteristic, for me, is consistent across many post-2010 BMWs, including even their M models, and represents the main drawback of the BMW partnership in this context. My particular Supra GR was enhanced with Eibach springs, spacers, stickier tires, and a comprehensive fast road setup. These modifications significantly improved upon the stock experience, yet it still left me wanting on my favored, winding roads.
Conversely, the GR86 truly comes alive on those challenging B-roads. A fast, undulating B-road is where this car truly shines. The reduced weight compared to competitors, and especially the Supra GR, is immediately noticeable. Turn-in is sharp and responsive, with the steering wheel serving as a precise tool for directional changes, rather than a mere handhold to brace against lateral forces – a sensation often experienced in the Supra GR on fast, winding roads. On typical British B-roads, the raw power of the Supra GR, and even the GR Yaris, might technically outpace the 86. However, to use a somewhat cliché but accurate phrase, the GR86 driver will undoubtedly be having more fun, a point that is hard to dispute.
As a daily driver or for long-distance commuting, the GR86 is undeniably a step down from the Supra GR. It’s louder, considerably slower, requires more driver input, has a firmer ride, and features a less sophisticated sound system and technology. Do these compromises bother me? Not in the slightest. In my view, purchasing a GR86 and then prioritizing the “fastest” or “most efficient” route on the navigation system entirely misses the point of this car. Instead, set the navigation to “avoid motorways,” seek out scenic routes or back roads, leave a little earlier, and utilize the car as intended. That being said, one of the GR86’s most notable attributes is its overall refinement. For those familiar with both the previous GT86 and the GR Supra, the GR86 strikes an almost perfect balance between the two. It’s nowhere near as basic or demanding as the GT86, yet not as effortlessly capable as the Supra GR. It represents an ideal compromise. Drawing a direct comparison to the GT86, the most apt description of the GR86 is that it’s simply a GT86 with improvements ranging from 1% to 50% across virtually every aspect of the car. Some enhancements are subtle, while others, like the engine, are transformative. Although the fundamental similarities remain, the GR86, to me, performs like a car deserving of a 50% higher price tag than the GT86, rather than costing £3,000 less (accounting for inflation).
In conclusion, when comparing the Supra GR and GR86, declaring a definitive “winner” is impossible. The choice is entirely subjective and depends on individual preferences and priorities. If you desire a comfortable, fast, effortless, and modern car for daily commuting that also offers a good degree of fun in the right circumstances, the Supra GR is an obvious choice. In the sub-£50,000 price bracket, few cars offer such a compelling all-around package. It represents, in my opinion, the best compromise for a sports car within that price range. However, if your vehicle needs are more specialized – perhaps you’re seeking a weekend car, a track day machine, or are willing to trade some daily refinement for weekend thrills and B-road enjoyment – then the GR86 is equally compelling. Like the Supra GR, for under £50,000, I believe there’s no better all-around sports car, considering all factors. While brands like Alpine and Porsche offer fantastic vehicles that may surpass the 86 in certain aspects, they come at a significantly higher price point and with their own set of compromises (practicality, unconventional engine choices, reliability considerations, etc.).
Clearly, based on my experience, I don’t regret my decision to move to the GR86. The Supra GR is an exceptional car, but its strengths don’t align with my primary driving desires. Although the Supra GR might be considered the “better” car in many objective measures, the GR86 is simply a much better fit for my personal preferences. Even if both cars were priced identically, I would still make the same choice. The fact that the GR86 is significantly more affordable is merely an added bonus.
