Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ now offer factory racing package with stripped interior and cage
Bernice J. Hicks
2 min read
The Subaru BRZ and its Toyota GR86 twin are both popular choices for track service. Both companies have recognized this fact and are now selling stripped models in Japan designed for this purpose, reports Engine1.
The Subaru BRZ Cup Car Basic is sold for those who wish to participate in the next Toyota Gazoo Racing GR86/BRZ Cup which will begin on July 16 at Fuji Speedway. The cars are equipped with a full roll cage with side anti-intrusion bars and a six-point safety harness for the driver. Power from the 2.4-liter boxer engine remains stock at 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels via the standard six-speed manual transmission.
There is also an engine oil cooler and additional cooling fins on the differential to allow the car to better withstand long runs at race pace. Side airbags and side curtains were removed for safety reasons. The car rolls on steel wheels, as they are meant to be replaced with stickier rubber on racing wheels on the track.
Subaru plans to sell 30 units per year according to the press release, priced at 3,338,500 yen, or about $28,900. Toyota will also offer a GR86 Basic Cutcoming in a bit cheaper at just 3,334,000 yen, or around $28,870.
Other Japanese automakers have also built similar models before. Notably, Mitsubishi produced the Rally Sport (RS) version of the legendary Lancer Evolution at the time, in an effort to help tuners save money on their track builds by leaving out all the elements that they would throw away anyway. Steel wheels made an appearance again, as these buyers would replace them soon after purchase.
For those wishing to race, it could hardly be easier than picking up a factory-prepared race car, slapping some tires and heading to the track. The cars are also very affordable; there aren’t too many other special races you can get for less than $30,000, let alone ones that have their own race series. Plus, there’s something charming about the steel wheels of a modern sports car. Lots to love for enthusiasts here, indeed.
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