Why are the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ the same?
2 Answers
Because the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are sister models jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. Except for some differences in the front and rear details, they are almost identical: Interior: The design of the 86 and BRZ is exactly the same, with a distinct Toyota style, inheriting the simple and unpretentious approach of the AE86. There are no overly luxurious or high-end design elements, and the overall level is basically similar to that of a regular family A-segment car. Layout: Like the AE86, both the new 86 and BRZ feature a 2+2 seating layout, with rear seats that can be folded down to connect the rear cabin with the trunk, providing larger cargo space. Powertrain: The powertrain of the 86 and BRZ is exactly the same, with a horizontally opposed 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine producing a maximum power of 147 kW and a maximum torque of 205 Nm.
When I first learned about the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, I thought they were too similar because they were actually products of the same engineering project. Toyota and Subaru collaborated on this car, sharing the chassis, engine, and even most of the drivetrain, aiming to save on R&D costs and time. The engine uses Subaru's horizontally opposed 2.0L four-cylinder, and the chassis tuning is identical, so the driving feel is almost the same, with the rear-wheel-drive sensation being particularly exhilarating. This collaboration allowed both companies to leverage their strengths: Toyota brought design philosophy, while Subaru contributed engine technology, ultimately creating twin car models, saving everyone from reinventing the wheel. Now, the modification scene is buzzing, with strong parts compatibility, making it easy for enthusiasts to upgrade brakes or suspension. I think this collaborative approach is very smart, reducing risks while enriching market choices.
