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History of the Toyota Supra
Throughout the history of Toyota, the Supra is known as a frontrunner in the sports segment. The company launched the Supra 40 years back in the year 1978 and it charted its own history throughout these years. The Supra was conceived by the Japanese carmaker with the objective to face competition in the Grant Tourer markets across USA and Japan. The vehicle takes its cues from the Toyota Celica. With time, the Supra became the most recognized and legendary vehicle produced by the company. Here’s everything you need to know about its history.
The First Generation: Celica Supra (1979-1981)
The Supra was introduced in the market as the Celica Supra in the year 1979. This marked a new beginning in the segment of luxury sports vehicles. The first-generation Supra was packed with a powerful 2.6-liter inline six-cylinder engine. It emitted power of up to 110 hp and torque of 136 lb-ft for superlative performance. Earlier, it was launched with a five-speed automatic transmission that was standard. It also included a four-speed transmission as an option for some models. The entire lineup was designed by the company with features like FM/AM stereo, tilt steering wheel, air conditioning and optional leather interior. Soon, it became the first vehicle in the USA to be introduced with a cruise control feature. During the final year of production in this generation, it was revamped with a robust 2.8-liter engine.
The Second Generation: Celica Supra (1982-1986)
With the onset of 1982, Toyota launched the second generation of Supra models that were fitted with a 2.8-liter inline engine. It was designed to churn out up to 155 lb-ft of torque and 145 hp. The engine output was further improved over the years in this model of up to 169 lb-ft of torque and 161 hp, making it the leader of the pack. The company developed two main variants of the second-generation Supra. They included the Luxury L-Type and Performance type. In the luxury models, the company offered additional features like automatic climate control, five-speaker audio system, sunroof and a digital instrument cluster.
The Third Generation: Supra (1986-1992)
The third generation of the Toyota Supra was launched with much gusto as a standalone model. It shredded the title of the Celica from its nameplate. This vehicle was designed with a rear-wheel drive feature and six-cylinder 3.0-liter engine. In the first few years, it offered up to 200 hp and 196 lb-ft which was later increased to up to 240 lb-ft and 230 hp by the year 1987 in the Turbo models. The turbo lineup was further enhanced with impressive features including eight-way adjustable seats, adjustable suspension, automatic climate control, limited slip differential and headlamp washers.
The Fourth Generation: Supra (1993-1998)
This vehicle is known as the ultimate performer due to its trimmed weight and amazing features. The company focused on every small detail including a magnesium steering wheel and gas tank made of plastic. The fourth-generation Supra was also launched with two engine options. They included the Turbo six-cylinder 3.0-liter engine producing up to 320 hp and torque of 315 lb-ft. The standard inline 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine offered up to 220 hp with 210 lb-ft of torque.
Toyota is planning a comeback of the Supra and the company hinted about it at the Detroit Auto Show in 2014.