Toyota Supra · Automobile History

Overview

Toyota introduced the Supra name in 1978 on a longer, wider and more powerful derivative of the Celica liftback. The first two generations were marketed as the Celica Supra in several export markets, combining practical hatchback bodywork with an inline-six engine and rear-wheel drive.

The model became independent of the Celica with the third generation in 1986. Across the following generations, the Supra retained a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a strong association with inline-six power. Naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants served both grand-touring and high-performance roles.

Fourth-generation production ended in 2002. Toyota revived the name after a 17-year absence with the GR Supra in 2019, developed through a collaboration with BMW and assembled by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. Production of the fifth generation ended in spring 2026 following the MkV and A90 Final Edition models.

Generations

First generation: A40/A50 (1978–1981)

The original Supra extended the second-generation Celica’s wheelbase to accommodate an inline-six engine. Its equipment and interior placed greater emphasis on comfort than the four-cylinder Celica, while the liftback body and driven rear axle established the basic formula carried into later models.

Second generation: A60 (1981–1986)

Still connected to the Celica range, the A60 adopted angular styling, retractable headlamps and a more performance-focused chassis. Market-dependent versions used 2.0- and 2.8-litre inline-six engines, with independent rear suspension on higher-specification models.

Third generation: A70 (1986–1993)

The A70 was the first Supra developed as a separate model after the Celica moved to front-wheel drive. Four-wheel double-wishbone suspension and four-wheel disc brakes accompanied naturally aspirated and turbocharged inline-six engines. The Japanese range gained a 2.5-litre 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine in 1990, while many export cars used the 3.0-litre 7M-GE or turbocharged 7M-GTE.

Fourth generation: A80 (1993–2002)

Toyota reduced weight through aluminium body and suspension components and gave the A80 a rounder, more compact shape. The naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE and sequentially turbocharged 2JZ-GTE 3.0-litre engines powered the principal variants. Turbo models could be specified with a six-speed Getrag manual gearbox, and competition versions won the top class of the All-Japan GT Championship four times.

Fifth generation: A90/J29 (2019–2026)

The two-seat GR Supra returned as the first global road car from Toyota Gazoo Racing. It shared its basic architecture and BMW-sourced engines with the BMW Z4 but received Toyota-specific bodywork and chassis tuning. Depending on market and year, turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 3.0-litre inline-six engines were offered with automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

Sources

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