GR86 vs. GT86: Toyota Sports Car Showdown

What Are The Toyota GT86 & GR86?

A History Of Toyota Sports Cars

These cars are pretty simple to understand. They're Toyota's small and affordable sports car for the masses, made in collaboration with Subaru. The first generation was called the Scion FR-S, Toyota GT86, or Subaru BRZ, depending on what region you bought the car in, but it was almost identical in performance across the range. That goes for the second generation, too, in 2025.

Originally, the Toyota GT86 was sold as a Scion FR-S, but with that brand's demise in 2016, Toyota changed its name to the Toyota 86 in the States, and has continued with a similar name to the second generation. Why the number 86? It was chosen as a spiritual successor to the Toyota AE86, which was a much-loved car from the 80s. The latest GR86 has been taken off sale in Europe due to safety regulations, but the brand continues to sell it in the States with limited editions planned.

GR86 vs. GT86: Design

Exterior: Aggressive In The Right Places

Both of these cars are similar, with the GR86 being a clear successor to the GT86's ethos. The GT86 does look dated now, but there is a large modifying community to keep these cars looking fresh. As standard, you get a small rear wing, 17-inch alloy wheels, electric folding mirrors and even LED daytime running lights on the older version. The facelift over the Scion-badged car makes it look much more modern, with the large grille up front and the differing rear lights.

The modern GR86 is a simple design in comparison to many sports cars that have fake vents, wings, and splitters. There's a small ducktail at the rear and a contrasting bumper, and the stance is just wide enough so you know not to mess with it. As standard on the latest GR86, you get full LED lights, heated mirrors, and the option for 18-inch wheels, but we'd stick with the 17s as they may be more comfy.

Interior: The GT86 Shows Its Age

They're similar on the outside, and the story continues when you step in. They're actually more similar than you'd think but differ mainly in design, with the metal accents and button design starting to show the 86's (or FR-S's) age. It didn't change much over time, and in a GT86 vs GR86 comparison, you can clearly tell which is older. Features inside vary heavily on the used market, but you can find examples with heated seats, cruise control, leather and even dual-zone automatic climate control.

The GR86 is updated inside with a bunch of technology, although the general premise stays the same as the old GT86. A six-speaker setup is standard (with an option for eight) and you can find two USB ports, keyless entry, and contrasting stitching. While it's certainly not a luxury car, there's a lot that you can get for your $30k. The focus of this car, though, is performance. Both cars have enough cargo space for the shopping or a weekend away, and are more capable than a Miata at carrying loads.

GR86 vs. GT86: Performance

This is why people buy these cars: their performance and driving dynamics. In a GR86 vs GT86 drag race, the newer GR86 would win, but not by much. Both cars aren't the most powerful in the class, and their boxer engines are known for their performance when you really push them. The main issue with the previous generation was the lack of torque, as 151 lb-ft is a relatively modest figure. Despite a higher 184 lb-ft in the newer model, it is still less than in the Nissan Z. That car does cost $13k more, though.

"You do have to be willing to flog the 86 to get everything out of it, though. The 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four makes most of it at the top of the rev band. But the engine is happy to wind up there, and the gearing is perfect for keeping it in the power band. The steering is astoundingly predictable, telling you exactly what it's up to at all times, and it never does anything suddenly, and if it ever steps out of line at either end, a subtle change in throttle is all it takes to get it back on line."

• Joel Stocksdale, Senior Road Tester, The News Pulse

The GR86 was our favorite car to drive on track out of the three GR-branded vehicles recently for its poise and drivability. That's definitely helped by the multi-link rear suspension and standard limited-slip differential here. Braking is also strong thanks to its available Brembo four-pot brakes. In a GR86 vs GR86 Premium test, though, the Premium may come out marginally ahead in driving dynamics thanks to the option of Torsen dampers, too.

The GT86 is still fun to drive, though, even in comparison with its younger sibling. It also features an LSD and a more oversteer-y bias in grip, though it's controllable. You'll feel the lack of torque, here, as it was one of the biggest gripes that most car reviewers had when the car was fresh. This is the big difference between the GT86 and GR86 — there's more power onboard the newer model that makes everything that little more enjoyable.

You won't be annoyed at either car in the long run. The GR86 is, of course, faster, but there's a lot more to a two-seater sports car than just pure speed. Both models are fun to drive, have a decent manual shift and can get sideways when you want them to be.

GR86 vs. GT86: Pricing & Summary

Both the 86 and the GR86 carry an enthusiast badge, so we're sure that used car values in a few years will stay the same or even incur some profit over time. You can find a decent used 86 example for around $20k–30k, and some high mileage early examples go for under $18k. It's a relatively easy and cheap car to maintain, and with the massive tuning community behind this car, you can find guides to do anything online.

The modern GR86 manages to stay affordable in a world of rising costs. Here's the price list for each trim:

• GR86: $30,800
• GR86 Premium: $33,400
• GR86 Yuzu Edition: $36,365

With any new GR86, you also get a complimentary high-performance driving experience. That's something that shows you exactly who this car is aimed at.

Which To Buy - GR86 or GT86?

It's hard to choose between these cars. Sure, the GR86 is quicker, more comfortable and more up-to-date, but is that really worth the $10k extra for a new one? Because of how sought-after the GR86 is, you can find lots of car dealing sites that go for more than their new price already. If you can get your hands on one, it's a worthy investment and will be very reliable given Toyota's track record. We'd take the GR86 over the old 86, as you can certainly feel its age even on late 2019 models.

FAQs

What is the difference between GR86 and GT86?
The GR86 is the successor to the GT86. It is faster and features more modern components.

What's better, GR86 or GT86?
The GR86 is a better car overall, given it's faster and more comfortable, but does command a premium over the outgoing GT86.

Are the Toyota 86 and GR86 the same?
While they are part of the same lineage, they are not the same. The GR86 is the newer version of the 86.