Subaru / Toyota BRZ / GR86

Subaru / Toyota BRZ / GR86 1st/2nd Gen

2013-present

EnthusiastExcellent

2.0L FA20 / 2.4L FA24 Flat-4200-228 hp2,756-2,835 lbsRWD6-speed manual, 6-speed auto

HPDE Overview

The BRZ/GR86 is the modern spiritual successor to the AE86 and the first-generation Miata — a lightweight, naturally aspirated, rear-wheel-drive coupe designed for driving enjoyment above all else. The second generation (2022+) addressed the biggest complaint about the original: power. The 2.4L FA24 makes 228 hp (manual) and delivers its torque much lower in the RPM range, eliminating the dreaded "torque dip" of the first generation. On track, the 86 platform is brilliant. It weighs under 2,800 lbs, has a low center of gravity thanks to the flat-four engine, and communicates with a transparency that lets you feel exactly what each tire is doing. The car rotates eagerly with trail-braking and is easy to catch when the rear end steps out. It is the car that HPDE instructors love to ride in because it does everything progressively — no surprises. The first generation (2013-2020) with the FA20 engine makes 200 hp but has a notorious torque dip between 3,500-4,500 RPM that makes the car feel anemic in the mid-range. This is solved with a header and tune, or by simply buying the second generation. Both generations have excellent gearboxes, good brake pedal feel, and a limited-slip differential (Torsen on auto, clutch-type on manual in 2nd gen). The biggest weakness is heat management — the FA20 and FA24 both suffer from heat soak on track, and an oil cooler is essential for sustained track use.

Strengths

Low center of gravity from the flat-four engine placement — the car feels planted and nimbleLightweight (under 2,800 lbs) with excellent weight distribution (53/47)Progressive, communicative handling that is ideal for learning car controlSecond gen (2022+) delivers 228 hp with no torque dip — genuinely quick on technical tracksExcellent gearbox with precise, short-throw shiftingStock LSD puts power down effectively; clutch-type LSD in 2nd gen manual is excellentCoupe body provides much better crash protection than a Miata convertible

Weaknesses

First gen torque dip (3,500-4,500 RPM) makes the car feel sluggish in mid-rangeOil temperature becomes critical after 15-20 minutes of track driving — oil cooler is mandatoryStock brake pads are terrible for track use — they fade within 3 lapsThe stock Primacy HP tires (1st gen) are dangerously low-grip for track drivingEngine heat soak in hot weather reduces power noticeably

Why People Love It

The BRZ/GR86 is proof that you do not need 500 hp to have fun on a racetrack. The chassis communicates with a clarity that is rare in modern cars — you feel every weight transfer, every tire slip, every surface change through the steering wheel, the pedals, and the seat of your pants. The second generation fixed the first gen's biggest flaw (the torque dip) and the result is a car that is genuinely quick on technical tracks while remaining approachable for novice drivers. It is the modern-day analog sports car that Porsche charges $70,000 for in Cayman form — you get 85% of the experience for 40% of the price.

Why People Hate It

The BRZ/GR86 has a heat management problem that the factory should have solved. Oil overheating on track is not a track-car problem — it is a design deficiency that requires a $500 aftermarket oil cooler to fix. The first generation's torque dip is genuinely annoying and feels like a flaw in an otherwise brilliant package. The stock tires and brake pads are both inadequate for any serious track use, meaning you are spending $1,000+ on Day One just to make the car safe. And while the community loves to claim the 86 is "affordable," the reality is that a new GR86 is $30,000+ and a well-built track example can quickly push past $45,000.

Best For

Modern track day enthusiasts, GR86 Cup aspirants, people who value driver engagement over outright speed, and anyone looking for a new-car platform with strong community support.

Not Ideal For

Power-hungry drivers, people who track in extreme heat without an oil cooler, or anyone who wants a car that is fast out of the box without modifications.