What are the differences between the BRZ and the 86?

[Zara]

The differences between the BRZ and the 86 are: 1. Performance differs: the BRZ is more track-oriented; the 86 is more drift-oriented. 2. Chassis tuning and steering feel differ: the BRZ has better chassis vibration filtering; the 86 has better steering feel. The BRZ and 86 are models jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota. Toyota was responsible for the initial market positioning and setting some basic performance indicators, while the exterior and interior were designed by Toyota engineers. Subaru was responsible for the chassis and engineering development. Both the 86 and BRZ use Subaru's FA20 horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine.

[FranciscoLee]

After driving an 86 for nearly a decade and later test-driving a friend's BRZ, I must say the two cars feel quite different behind the wheel. Although both feature 2.0L horizontally opposed engines and rear-wheel-drive layouts, the 86's suspension tuning is noticeably more comfort-oriented. Its body exhibits much less bounce over speed bumps in urban areas, and the steering feedback is gentler, making it particularly suitable for daily commutes. The BRZ, on the other hand, has a significantly stiffer chassis that provides exceptional cornering support on mountain roads, though prolonged highway driving can lead to backaches. Interior details differ too: the 86's instrument cluster backlight is orange-red, while the BRZ uses ice blue, and the BRZ's seat bolsters offer better lateral support. In reality, over 90% of parts are interchangeable between these cars—it ultimately comes down to personal preference in driving style.

[StRemington]

Last week I accompanied my buddy to pick a car, carefully comparing the 86 and BRZ models on display. At first glance these twin brothers look similar, but upon closer inspection their front ends differ significantly: the 86 features hexagonal honeycomb mesh grilles while the BRZ adopts horizontal slats with fang-shaped fog light surrounds. Inside the cabin, the 86 comes with fabric/synthetic leather combo seats whereas the BRZ comes standard with full Alcantara suede upholstery that feels noticeably more premium. Their wheel designs also differ - the 86 sports Y-shaped 10-spoke alloys while the BRZ gets classic 5-spoke rims. On the road, the BRZ's exhaust note sounds deeper, especially above 3000 RPM where you can hear gurgling afterfire pops. Fuel consumption tests showed the BRZ burns about 0.3L more per 100km during spirited driving, likely due to different transmission gear ratio tuning.

[Cook]

The experienced mechanic at the repair shop told me that the 86 and BRZ share basically the same mechanical architecture, but there are differences in their electrical systems. The 86's electronic throttle response is gentler, preventing jerky starts, while the BRZ's ECU programming is more aggressive, with more enthusiastic rev-matching on downshifts. Their cooling systems also differ—the 86's radiator fins are spaced wider, making them less prone to clogging with willow catkins. For friends into modifications, note that while both can accommodate superchargers, the BRZ offers more firewall space, simplifying wiring. In the used car market, the 86 holds its value slightly better, especially the red variants which are particularly sought-after. Brake discs are interchangeable, but caliper colors differ: the 86 sports red calipers, while the BRZ comes with eye-catching yellow ones. For routine maintenance, the 86 uses 5W-30 oil, whereas the BRZ recommends 0W-20.

[StJack]

Just drove two cars at a track day, straight to the point. The 86 comes with Yokohama ADVAN dB tires from the factory, which are quiet but offer average grip; the BRZ is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires out of the box, providing higher cornering limits on dry surfaces. Although both have 6AT transmissions, the 86's shift logic leans toward fuel efficiency, while the BRZ downshifts faster and more decisively. There's also a subtle difference in the steering rack ratio: the 86's steering wheel requires 2.5 turns from lock to lock, whereas the BRZ only needs 2.4 turns. Both have a ground clearance of 130mm, but the BRZ comes with an added front lip spoiler. In terms of tuning potential, the 86's ECU is easier to crack, while the BRZ's factory turbo pressure leaves more headroom. On track lap times, the same driver can clock the BRZ about 0.8 seconds faster.

[BrodyDella]

During a weekend test drive with my family, I noticed significant differences in the family-friendly features between these two cars. The 86 has a more reclined rear seat back angle, making it less cramped for adults under 1.7 meters tall. In contrast, the BRZ's rear headrests are fixed, resulting in much poorer comfort. The 86's trunk can fit a 28-inch suitcase, while the BRZ loses some space due to its rear suspension tower structure, practically leaving room for one less backpack. There's also a difference in the air conditioning systems: the 86 has independent rear vents, whereas the BRZ only has front vents across all trims. The BRZ is noticeably noisier, especially on concrete roads where tire noise is much louder. Both cars have child safety seat anchors, but the 86's ISO FIX latches are more exposed, making installation easier. For audio, the 86 comes standard with 6 speakers, while the higher-end BRZ offers 8 speakers with a subwoofer—though it costs an extra 20,000 yuan.