Why Did Toyota Ruin the Supra Series?
The Toyota Supra, once a timeless icon of automotive design and engineering, has seen a dramatic shift in public perception. Many enthusiasts are questioning whether Toyota's decision to collaborate with BMW and introduce the A90 Supra preserved the essence of the classic Supra. In this article, we explore the key factors that led to this narrative and reflect on the broader implications for the automotive fans and purists alike.
The Perception That Toyota Ruined the Supra Series
The A90 Supra, introduced in partnership with BMW, has faced significant criticism from long-time fans and purists. For many enthusiasts, it represents a significant departure from the performance DNA and unique character that made the classic Supra so iconic.
Collaboration with BMW
The A90 Supra’s development was widely recognized as a collaborative effort with BMW, sharing its platform and engine with the BMW Z4. While such partnerships can bring advancements in technology and performance, it also compromised the Supra’s identity as a standalone performance car with a unique character that fans have cherished for decades.
Turbocharged Inline-4 vs. Inline-6
The A90 Supra introduced a turbocharged inline-4 engine as its base offering. While the inline-6 engines (such as the 2JZ-GTE) from the A80 Supra were celebrated for their raw power and distinctive feel, the A90’s 4-cylinder option was seen by some as a step down. This shift disappointed many purists who felt that the new Supra offered less of the tradition-supplied, high-performance experience that made its predecessors so beloved.
Design Choices
The design of the A90 Supra has been a contentious issue. While some appreciate the car's modern aesthetics, others lament its departure from the classic Supra design language that fans held in such high regard. The styling of the A90, designed in collaboration with BMW, failed to resonate with purists who felt it strayed too far from the beloved original.
Automatic Transmission
Another point of contention is the exclusive use of an automatic transmission in the A90 Supra. This came as a disappointment to many enthusiasts who expected a manual option, given the sporty heritage of the Supra. The absence of a manual gearbox was seen as a disservice to those who preferred the feel and control of a manual transmission, a key feature that defined the classic Supra.
Price Point
The pricing strategy for the A90 Supra positioned it in a higher market segment compared to its predecessors. Critics argue that this change made the car less accessible and value-oriented, diminishing its appeal as a sportscar for the average enthusiast.
Cultural Shift
The automotive landscape has evolved, with an increasing focus on hybrid and electric vehicles. This shift has led to new consumer expectations that may not align with what the new Supra offers. The traditional performance and driving experience associated with Supra fans faced new challenges in an era dominated by new technology and eco-friendly vehicles.
Toyota and Its Racing Success
Toyota’s success in racing, exemplified by the Le Mans victory in 2021, is a testament to the company’s commitment to reliability and performance. Toyota’s Gazoo Racing team dominated the race, showcasing the ultimate demonstration of reliability and perfection in car design. However, this success on the track stands in contrast to the mixed reception for the A90 Supra, highlighting a stark difference between performance on the track and on the road.
Collaboration Challenges
The collaboration between Toyota and BMW for the A90 Supra was fraught with challenges. The faulty weld in the BMW version of the car required a massive recall, which compounds the issues for the Supra series. For many long-time fans, the workarounds and compromises revealed in the new Supra underscored a loss of the traditional Japanese craftsmanship and reliability that made the classic Supra a standout.
Lessons From History
History has shown that Toyota has struggled with producing a car that aligns with fan expectations. The brief and problematic run of the Toyota 2000GT in the 1960s serves as a cautionary tale, as did the A90 Supra. These products, built in partnership with other manufacturers, failed to meet the expectations of purists and enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of maintaining the values and qualities that make a classic car timeless.
The A90 Supra, while a technological marvel, has become a symbol of change and modernity that many fans felt did not fully honor the legacy of the classic Supra. As Toyota continues to adapt to the evolving automotive landscape, balancing innovation with tradition remains a crucial challenge, not just for the Supra, but for the future of the brand.