The Toyota 86 versus Subaru BRZ Comparison. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ have been extremely similar throughout their respective lifespans. Both of these rear-wheel-drive sports applications are designed to maximize power and performance while being cost-effective. Certain components of the 86 and BRZ are nearly identical, yet they differ in important ways. Sure, some of the visual distinctions are obvious to any driver. Nonetheless, we want to uncover some of the most significant differences and reasons why drivers may choose one over the other throughout this guide.
Both the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are 2+2 sports cars that were designed concurrently by both manufacturers. Surprisingly, the Toyota 86 was first unveiled in 2012 as the Scion FR with the Subaru BRZ. The Toyota 86 is based on the earlier AE86, with Toyota seeking to produce a compact, sporty, front-engine, rear-drive model to compete with the Corolla.
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are practically identical. The overall functionality of the two devices is thought to be the same. However, let’s look at and compare the differences between these two models in greater depth below.
Price Comparison: Toyota 86 versus Subaru BRZ
Let’s start with the reality that the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are practically the same pricing. The 86 starts at $27,700, while the BRZ starts at $27,995. The 86, on the other hand, has a listed MPG of 27 highway/20 city versus the BRZ’s listed MPG of 30 highway/21 city.
The Toyota 86 is available in two variants, the standard “limited” edition and the more expensive “premium” version. The 2.4L 4-cylinder boxer engine is standard on both models of the 86. Variations in both trims, such as audio improvements, different wheels, and various visual modifications, are what distinguishes these versions.
The Subaru BRZ is also available in two different variants. However, the base BRZ configuration is classified as the “Premium” edition, while the upgraded configuration is designated as the “Limited” edition. Toyota and Subaru deserve credit for making it far too easy to confuse which configuration is genuinely best. Again, both models are powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder boxer engine, with just minor differences in appearance and luxury equipment.
Interior vs. Exterior
There isn’t much of a difference in the general aesthetics of either model, with only minor differences in a few design elements. The modest variance in LED headlamps and design differences in the front grill are two of the distinguishing features. Apart from those minor variations, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are essentially identical. Some may argue that the Toyota 86 has a more sporty or aggressive front end than the Subaru BRZ, but we’ll leave that up to the readers to decide.
Aside from minor branding modifications, the interior cabins are nearly identical. Each model comes with a 7.5-inch touch-screen display. Almost every component is the same, from the air vents to the seats themselves, and even the pedals.
Because these cars are basically twins, many drivers may struggle to discern any differences. However, let’s look at several performance assessments and try to uncover other distinguishing factors in the areas below.
Engine Power & Performance of Toyota 86 versus Subaru BRZ
As previously stated, both the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ have a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. The Toyota 86 has 232 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This gives it a little advantage over the Subaru BRZ, which has 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, drivers often report that the Toyota 86 outperforms the BRZ in terms of acceleration. To many drivers, these may appear to be minor variations on paper. However, because to these minor benefits, some drivers may find that the 86 has a little advantage in terms of handling, acceleration, and overall power. The Toyota 86 is also 15 pounds lighter than the BRZ, which may contribute to the minor advantages in handling.
The compression ratio is another engine specification difference between these two versions. The compression ratio of the Toyota 86 is 12.5:1, while that of the Subaru BRZ is 13.5:1. Again, they aren’t huge alterations, but when comparing the almost identical 86 to the BRZ, any deviations are noticeable. Below are some basic power specs for the 2022 Toyota 86 and the 2023 Subaru BRZ:
Toyota 86 2022
- a total of 232 horsepower
- 184 pound-feet of torque
- 6.3 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour
- 12.5:1 engine compression ratio
Subaru BRZ 2023
- a total of 228 horsepower
- 184 pound-feet of torque
- 6.5 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour
- 13.5:1 Engine Compression Ratio
Now that we’ve established some of the performance dynamics, let’s look at some discernible differences in terms of available warranties and the overall dependability of both models.
Issues, dependability, and warranty
Most drivers prioritize a warranty when shopping for a new vehicle. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ have the same warranty. This includes a 3-year/36,000-mile guarantee, as well as a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty on the powertrain. In terms of overall reliability, both of these models are ranked ordinary to above average. Toyota has maintained high standards of durability and lifespan for many of its modern applications. Because the Subaru BRZ is nearly comparable to the 86, it maintains some of the 86’s outstanding overall reliability standards. However, no engine is flawless. So, without further ado, here’s a list of some of the most frequently reported issues with both models.
Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ Issues
Fortunately, neither of these models’ newer generations have a slew of known issues. However, keep checking back as time goes on for a follow-up on major issues that may be discovered. However, we have compiled a list of the top three reoccurring difficulties for the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ during their career in the market. Again, these are largely issues with cars manufactured before 2021, as well as those with significant mileage and wear over time.
1) Misprogrammed Engine Control Unit (ECU)
This issue has been explicitly identified to be most prevalent in models manufactured between 2016 and 2020. Drivers have reported inconsistent revs and an unsteady idle. Unfortunately, good care and upkeep will not prevent this problem from occurring, and it must be repaired as soon as possible. However, a simple ECU reprogramming should resolve any difficulties with your OEM ECU’s inappropriate operation.
2) Defective Fuel Pump
Many Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ owners have reported faulty fuel pumps or fuel pumps that die early. This problem can cause a whining or chirping noise from the pump, engine sputtering, stalling, not starting, or a loss of fuel economy. As a result, it is critical to correct any fuel pump difficulties before they cause more annoying recurring issues or put drivers in dangerous situations. Despite numerous consumer claims of malfunctioning fuel pumps, neither Toyota nor Subaru have acknowledged this problem. As a result, if any of the drivers indicated above suffer the symptoms listed above, a fuel pump replacement may be necessary to extend engine longevity.
3) A broken oil drain plug
Various annoying oil leaks or oil consumption concerns can occur in a variety of vehicles. The oil drain plug, on the other hand, appears to be a cause of concern for many Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ owners. This can be caused by over-torqueing or aggressive driving, as well as faulty components and poor workmanship. If your oil leak is coming from the bottom of your oil pan, the cause could be a fractured oil drain stopper. Fortunately, replacing the fractured drain stopper should solve the problem.
4) Valve Spring Defect
It’s also worth noting that Toyota and Subaru recalled 400,000 vehicles due to valve spring failure. This problem is especially widespread in early production years, particularly in 2013 production years. Excessive valve noise, compression loss, and serious engine damage are all indicators of valve spring failure. As a result, it is critical to repair any broken valve springs as soon as possible before more expensive and time-consuming repairs are required.
Drivers of the 86 and BRZ may encounter additional issues. The following is a brief overview of some of the most common difficulties reported by drivers for both models across their various production years:
- Transmission noise (most typically reported on the 2013 BRZ)
- Paint bubbles
- Engine and traction control lights are not working.
- Failure of the clutch (most usually observed in the 2013 BRZ
Related : The Toyota 4Runner 5th Generation Oil Change Instructions
Summary of Toyota 86 against Subaru BRZ
Because of their nearly identical construction, it’s difficult to be too picky when detecting differences between the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ. There are, nevertheless, some subtle variations between the two. As previously said, some drivers may like the somewhat more elegant honeycomb grille and headlamps of the Toyota 86. Furthermore, the 86 has a little advantage over the BRZ in terms of 4 more horsepower and being 15 pounds lighter. The 86 does offer a slightly faster 0-60 time. In addition, the BRZ has a compression ratio of 13.5:1 against 12.5:1 in the 86.
Sure, there are some cosmetic differences, and some drivers may report a marginally different driving experience. Because of our given power specs, the acceleration in the 86 may have an advantage. Some internet drivers claim that the Toyota 86 outperforms the Subaru BRZ in cornering and maintaining high speeds. Nonetheless, from head to toe, both of these models are practically identical. They even provide the same warranty for drivers who want to buy a new model.
Regardless, some of these little changes may be sufficient to persuade a driver to prefer one model over the other. In actuality, it appears that Toyota and Subaru have collaborated to create a 2 Liter 4-cylinder engine that provides a thrilling driving experience while remaining affordable. The Toyota 86 was needed in the market, but the Subaru BRZ was also needed. However, drivers may have been satisfied with only one of these twins. We attempted to highlight and display the distinctions between the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ throughout this guide, but it appears we may have reaffirmed how similar they truly are.
