Pop quiz: what do you get when you take one of the world’s largest car company’s racing R&D wing, give them unlimited resources and cut them loose to improve the hottest compact car in the world today? Answer: the TRD Griffon Concept. Don’t let the wacky name fool you, this car is all business; and unlike most half-cocked concepts, you might actually want to drive it.
Fortunately, at least if you were a Toyota test driver, you could – because this car is more than just a show-piece but is actually an R&D test mule. In fact, the car has already logged many test miles at circuits like Tsukuba where Dino caught a rare first glimpse of the car back in December before its debut at Tokyo Auto Salon.
I would imagine then that most of you have probably already seen this car at some point, but I doubt many of you have had this in-depth of a look. On the exterior it’s obvious that something fairly incredible has been done to the car, but it’s only after you peek beneath the surface that the staggering transformation can really be appreciated.
In fact, I’d argue that aside from the obvious bits like the canards, rear diffuser and pointy wing, the outside really doesn’t give much away. The first time I saw the car at TAS I actually moved on rather quickly, it wasn’t until I went in for a closer look the next day that it became obvious I would have to get better acquainted with the car once the show was over.
Of course a spotlight on the car was a mandatory part of our TAS coverage, but Dino and I knew that we needed to spend some more time with the car in order to do it justice. There’s just so much awesome oozing out of every last millimeter that can’t be properly appreciated in the context of a car show.
Case in point: just take a look at the wheel / tire / brake area… it’s mind blowing. Items don’t get much more top-shelf than TE37SLs and six-piston Brembo calipers with floating rotors. I don’t think that there’s a ZN6 owner anywhere in the world that wouldn’t kill for that package! But this stuff is just the tip of the iceberg.
TRD has completely re-sculpted virtually the entire exterior of the car, adding width, ducts, channels and dive planes to various surfaces. While much of the car is still in a bespoke prototype phase, there are also items, like the TRD “Front Fender Aero Fins” that we also saw on TRD’s other demo car a few weeks ago, that you can actually purchase.
Around back it’s more of the same, lots of aero bits and pieces that have been masterfully shaped out of dry carbon and fiberglass and painstakingly grafted to the body.
The centerpiece of the rear bumper, both literally and metaphorically, is the rear diffuser with a center-exit exhaust pipe which terminates in a glorious triangular shaped megaphone. It’s the little details like the way the exhaust is finished or the corresponding heat-sheild where you start to catch little hints that TRD might be showing off a little…
But that’s nothing compared to the rear wing, which really starts to hint at just how serious of an exercise the Griffon is. I’ve seen a lot of wings in my day mounted to all sorts of cars ranging from rusted-out-ricebuckets to top-tier-motorsport and I’ve never seen something so technically sound and beautiful as this.
If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go off on a bit of a rant here, but I think you’ll find it just. You see, I don’t believe that the word perfection accurately describes the spoiler mounted on the Griffon. I could stare at this thing for hours, in fact I think over the course of the shoot I did… and I didn’t manage to find a single strand of fiber out of place.
The uprights are proper motorsport-style mounts with multiple adjustment points to fine-tune the angle-of-attack. Notice the chamfered trailing edges of the wing to reduce drag, serious business indeed.
Of course the wing is also height-adjustable via the bottom of the uprights which can be dialed-in under the trunk lid. Is your brain hurting yet? My god the things I would do for something like this for my Civic…
The use of carbon fiber isn’t just limited to smaller bits and pieces, in fact it’s almost grotesque how completely covered the Griffon is in the stuff. And we’re not talking run-of-the-mill carbon fiber either, take everything you know about the stuff and throw it out the window. This is 100% Formula 1 level perfection weaves we’re dealing with.
And since TRD is part of Toyota, they have access to all the original CAD information and parts molds, so you can bet your ass that everything on this car fits properly – not something you can be so sure of in the real aftermarket realm. To ensure that everything is structurally sound, all of the necessary carbon pieces have also been properly bonded to the chassis as well.
Even the most minuscule of holes have ben covered with sheets of carbon which have been precision measured and cut. Showing off again are we TRD? As you may have noticed, to accompany the extreme carbon diet, all of the glass with the exception of the windscreen has been replaced with OEM-quality-fitting sheets of Lexan.
With the radical effort put into the body, it may come as some surprise that the engine compartment remains relatively untouched, at least for now. The main concept of the first phase of research seems to be seeing how much potential the car has without adding any power and simply “adding lightness.”
There are a few small trinkets to be found, like TRD oil and radiator caps as well as an oil cooler, but most is still standard.
The only real power modification on the Griffon is the addition of a fully Titanium exhaust system consisting of a custom header and completely straight exhaust. It might not add gobs of power, but it certainly does provide a very exciting exhaust note!
The suspension is relatively straight-forward as well, with a few TRD bits and pieces underneath while the majority of the work has been taken care of by a set of KW motorsport 3-way adjustable dampers, further continuing the trend of KWs on ZN6s I saw at SEMA.
The cockpit follows suit in the exercise of weight extraction and comes off as a place from which a racing driver can conduct serious business. There isn’t a whole lot left inside, but as you’d expect, what’s there is pretty impressive.
In addition to the standard dials, a set of TRD meters which are offered for sale as a kit – complete with the 2-din plate – have been installed to keep an eye on oil pressure and oil / water temps. It’s a sophisticated and simple solution that’s certainly a lot easier on the eyes than the standard radio configuration offered by Toyota / Scion.
A lone TRD bucket is all that remains by way of seating. This particular model is one of two different seats manufactured by Bride for TRD, the other being a reclining and thus non-FIA approved version. Once paired to a Takata harness, this car is ready to lock in some hotlaps.
Although TRD is offering a very handsome leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel with an airbag, the Griffon isn’t a true street car so the team decided to bolt a more appropriate suede Momo Monte Carlo on the car in its place. TRD also chose to utilize a Works Bell flip-up style steering boss to ease the transition to and from the driver’s seat.
Aside from the seat and the dashboard, very little else now resides in the car, save for a miniature relocated battery. As you can see, the chassis has also been painstakingly spot-welded in its entirety.
The rear seat area has been replaced with a flat sheet of dry carbon which has been riveted and bonded to the body to increase structural rigidity. Again just another small difference between a factory works effort and a conventional tuner car.
But if you’re still not quite convinced, have a quick look at this video of the Griffon from TRD and you’ll begin to further appreciate the effort that has been put into this car. Words cannot begin to describe the accuracy and fitment of each and every component on this car, it’s been finished at a level I don’t think any tuning shop would be capable of replicating.
In a nutshell, the Griffon offers everything you want from a modified car (i.e. looks and performance) without any of the typical draw backs (i.e. improper fitment and poor durability). So then, is the Griffon Concept the ultimate tuned eight-six? I’ll leave that for you to decide, but I certainly think so.
Toyota Racing Development “Griffon Concept” Toyota 86
ENGINE
2.0L naturally aspirated FA20 boxer engine; TRD Titanium header and straight exhaust
ENGINE MANAGEMENT / ELECTRONICS
Standard ECU; TRD sports meter
DRIVELINE
TRD 2-way LSD, clutch plate and 3-puck disc
SUSPENSION / CHASSIS
KW motorsport 3-way adjustable dampers; TRD member brace, reinforced suspension arms
BRAKES
TRD 6-pot (f) / 4-pot (r) monoblock calipers, 355mm (f) / 345mm (r) floating rotors, stainless brake lines, performance brake pads
WHEELS / TIRES
18×9.5″ +40 Volk TE37SL wheels; 250/640R18 Advan Racing slick tires; Rays racing lug nuts
CABIN
TRD fixed bucket seat; Momo Monte Carlo steering wheel; Works Bell Rapfix GTC steering hub; Takata 4-point harness; lightweight relocated battery
BODY
TRD Griffon concept aero package (consists of GFRP front / rear bumpers, front fenders, CFRP hood, roof, trunk lid, rear wing, rear diffuser doors), front fender aero fin, Performance Line side skirts, bonded carbon fiber rear seat reinforcement plate; Craft Square carbon side mirrors; spot-weld reinforced chassis
PERFORMANCE
-Sean
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
photo by Sean Klingelhoefer
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there seems to be a problem with the text below the last 9 pictures, tried with Chromium and Firefox.
there seems to be a problem with the text below the last 9 pictures, tried with Chromium and Firefox.
Interesting mounting of the harness, goes against what is commonly accepted as safe.
Interesting mounting of the harness, goes against what is commonly accepted as safe.
I never really like the front end of production 86s but this looks a lot like the FT-86 Concept...love what they've done with the front bumper. Also, I wish RAYS made TE37SLs in other colors, without Ken Block-style "branding" because you can only overlook them for so long before they become an eyesore.
Sean, is there a possibility of making #5 image in a wallpaper size?
I never really like the front end of production 86s but this looks a lot like the FT-86 Concept...love what they've done with the front bumper. Also, I wish RAYS made TE37SLs in other colors, without Ken Block-style "branding" because you can only overlook them for so long before they become an eyesore.
Sean, is there a possibility of making #5 image in a wallpaper size?
@KLO101489 If the drivers shoulders are lower than the seats harness holes why is it unsafe? Seriously. I want to know.
@KLO101489 If the drivers shoulders are lower than the seats harness holes why is it unsafe? Seriously. I want to know.
@koko san should be fixed now, I think you saw an early link that was accidentally posted for about 2 minutes.
@koko san should be fixed now, I think you saw an early link that was accidentally posted for about 2 minutes.
@roryfjohnston @KLO101489
Spinal compression
@roryfjohnston @KLO101489
Spinal compression
@KLO101489 But if the shoulders are lower than the highest point of the harness than the spine wouldn't be compressed. The seat would take the brunt of the force.
What I am getting at is the typical Japanese driver is not very tall. There is no need for harness bars typically required for giant gaijin here.
@KLO101489 But if the shoulders are lower than the highest point of the harness than the spine wouldn't be compressed. The seat would take the brunt of the force.
What I am getting at is the typical Japanese driver is not very tall. There is no need for harness bars typically required for giant gaijin here.
Sweet little car. I hope TRD will end up selling most of the stuff shown on the car.
Sweet little car. I hope TRD will end up selling most of the stuff shown on the car.
BTW, thanks for sharing it Sean!
BTW, thanks for sharing it Sean!
@sean klingelhoefer @koko yes it is.
@sean klingelhoefer @koko yes it is.
That's cool as f*&k! And of course tuning shops wouldn't be able to replicate the build quality, they are not engineers with an super large budgets(for the most part anyway).
That's cool as f*&k! And of course tuning shops wouldn't be able to replicate the build quality, they are not engineers with an super large budgets(for the most part anyway).
Woah, what a BEAST, as always TRD is not playing around, they are all BUSINESS!
Woah, what a BEAST, as always TRD is not playing around, they are all BUSINESS!
woah that sound is really nice
woah that sound is really nice
It seems it doesn't have a roll cage??
It seems it doesn't have a roll cage??
@Nardi330 Yep, it probably weighs too much
@Nardi330 Yep, it probably weighs too much
@VecTT No kidding, I'd love to see this thing in action eventually.
@VecTT No kidding, I'd love to see this thing in action eventually.
I was just trying to further communicate just how close to perfect every piece on the car is. In photographs a lot of cars can appear to be equal, but this thing is in an entirely different league from virtually every other 86 I've seen.
I was just trying to further communicate just how close to perfect every piece on the car is. In photographs a lot of cars can appear to be equal, but this thing is in an entirely different league from virtually every other 86 I've seen.
@507RICKY @loubox16 Rickyaaaaa será que ese es el carro que vamos a tener que conseguir?
@tom_507 @loubox16 cero que a new legend has arrived
@507RICKY @loubox16 Yeap, parece ser el sucesor del Hichiroku, o piensas que todavia no esta a ese nivel?
@tom_507 @loubox16 RWD #FTW #bienquelosabes
If it's coming from TRD, then it better be the "best". Best road car? With no cage that's all it's good for. But either way I'll take two.
It would be awesome if a race series consisting of only FT-86s and BRZs were made or at the very least Toyota made this concept a race car you could buy from the factory. This concept definitely is captivating.
That wing alone is just beautiful
http://cdn.dev.speedhunters.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/TRD-Griffon-19.jpg
Somebody forgot to remove the ABS system and use it to hold down a trash can.
Best 86 ever. That wide body kit looks freaking perfect. I hope Toyota releases this car as a whole package because I will definitely be all over it. God so FREAKING perfect!
@roryfjohnston @KLO101489 With the direction of the forces the belts will excert on the seat in an accident it's likely to break the seat - not good.
@IHCrusader They already exist in Japan.
sounds awesome, looks awesome, love the idea that you don't need more power to go faster, really hope they pursue with it and really make some hardcore trick parts, but also yet another "demo" car running on slicks? any insight on why that might be
@sean klingelhoefer Seeing the Griffon at TAS myself (and drooling for a good 30 min). I agree, the parts changed looked so OEM, perfect fitting. Not gaudy, nothing overdone!
With a proper cage and a built...cough...EJ25...cough......this thing could be a real contender at Tsukuba (or at any given event).
no TRD door gadgets?
very nice car, would lve to see it in my garage :D:D
Actually I do believe it has the door latch stabilizer thingies, but they seemed insignificant compared to the rest of the car. Either that or it doesn't have them, I can't quite remember lol.
@777 Ya it's a very gnarly build. Interested to see at what point they begin engine internal investigation, because I'm sure they'll offer something eventually.
In regards to the slicks - I can't say for sure but I would imagine it probably has to do with them either wanting to clock the fastest lap time possible or else they don't want people to compare their car to other "tuning cars" since they have a large reputation to uphold. But to be honest, I have no idea.
My guess is that the TRD brake setup was designed to work perfectly with the standard ABS units.
@NikkSquidBonnett @roryfjohnston @KLO101489 To the best of my knowledge the FIA requires seat backs can withstand a force greater than the human body is capable of enduring. I.E. if an FIA seat breaks the g-load required to do so would be greater than your internal organs could survive anyway.
This is by far my favorite 86. Goes to show HP isn't everything and the Tsukuba times prove that.
There is a few things in the engine bay you missed but not really important details. Like the cool little dip stick "coil" and the TRD coolant hoses. I hope they release those to the public
With all the 86's about, i was going to give this 1 a pass, This 1 is nicely done with a great write up.
The perfect GT86.
nicely done!
Every time I think I'm sick of seeing the Gt86, another awesome one comes along and I fall in love with them all over again. This one might just be my favourite.
@507RICKY @tom_507 ese carro tiene tantas vainas ya en el mercado que esta para volverse loco!!! Tiene para todos los gustos!!
Very impressive details. I am surprised not to see a roll cage in it, but I imagine there's a specific reason for that. I wish they'd offer a real carbon fiber dash panel instead of that cheesy carbon-look plastic piece; I'm surprised they didn't try to save a few ounces making one. It's nice to see that they're using actual parts from their catalog to test and see that they work.
Awesome shots and great Article Sean!Just one note, seems like those guys are using top of the range KW Competition 3-way race kit...like a boss!
i really love those little fender fins, i loved them ever since i first saw them. if i had an 86 (which, let's face it, i never will) those would probably be the first present i bought for it
i also really like the entire aero package for this 86, which is strange for me, usually there's always a bit on a modified car where i say it's not my style, but here everything is ok to me (because obviously I am the arbiter of what looks good and what is a good modification)
Thats a direct injection engine right? i was wondering are there aftermarket injectors for direct injection engines because i have yet to see any available.
@ComJive why would you never own one? ten years from now theyll be a dime a dozen.
@Michael Grassl of course they are, that's what I meant to type - fixed it. Thanks Michael!
They do make a dash panel piece actually, it just wasn't installed on this car. The red 86 Dino featured a few weeks ago had it installed - http://cdn.dev.speedhunters.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/TRD-80s-86-13.jpg
Indeed there are a few modifications sprinkled about the engine bay, but none of them aid in the power department aside from the exhaust, which is what I was getting at. Dipstick retainer springs are a fairly common mod in the racing world, you can find them online.
i'll never own one because i don't particularly want one, not because i can't afford one. i'm more of a current classic enthusiast, future classics don't really interest me. i tend to keep everything i buy, so the promise of selling a car i ddin't really want for more than i paid for it in 35 years time means nothing to me, too
@roeby x2... At first it was.. "oh no, here we go again." But then transitioned into... "This car would be SO much fun to drive." Any chance we'll see something similar in the Perelli World Challenge?
@celicaclubuk http://t.co/DMgg9I2g
First thing I did was scroll through looking for a TRD blower.
Ok I'll go back and read the article now.
@hanablemoore DI uses injection pressure in the neighborhood of 2500 psi, so I don't think we will need aftermarket versions for quite awhile.
@AceAndrew2 @roeby Scion displayed a ZN6 with WC decals at SEMA, so I think so.
Nice article. The exhaust tip is so....dare I say MotoGP?
Wow the details just keep on coming, what a thoughtful build. I was surprised to see nothing done to the motor at all, not even a little strokey strokey up in displacement or a 'charger, etc. But it has to be so much fun on track, very cool build.
A desktop of the second picture in the post would have been awesome.
@LS1RX7_owen I think all of that stuff is coming in the next phase of the project. Although they seemed very adamant about keeping it a 2-liter, but probably will develop cams and valvetrain, pistons etc.
@roryfjohnston @KLO101489 It's due to the angle the shoulder straps go down to the floor.Too steep of an angle,in an accident,all the weight goes onto the holes in the seat or the top of the persons shoulders,not down across the chest.What ever gives way first,seat or shoulders,will cause a lot of damage to someone.
I think the BRZ GT300 still takes the cake for me, but it could be argued it's not an 86. This car however is stunningly beautiful though. No doubt about that. Not a inch of it stands out of place.
Gah! What was its time around Tsukuba? Can't leave me hanging like that TRD.
Gah! What was its time around Tsukuba? Can't leave me hanging like that TRD.
@sean klingelhoefer
Pg 3 of the FIA pdf explains.
http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.nsf/EA658B00B8E24395C125765600493AF7/$FILE/253%20%2809-10%29.pdf
@sean klingelhoefer
Pg 3 of the FIA pdf explains.
http://argent.fia.com/web/fia-public.nsf/EA658B00B8E24395C125765600493AF7/$FILE/253%20%2809-10%29.pdf
Nice car but whoever installed those Takata harnesses is an idiot.....Stick to video games rookie.
Watch the video.. http://www.schrothracing.com/docs/SchrothASMII.wmv
This is how it's done read it .. http://www.schroth.com/installation-instructions/en/index.html
Nice car but whoever installed those Takata harnesses is an idiot.....Stick to video games rookie.
Watch the video.. http://www.schrothracing.com/docs/SchrothASMII.wmv
This is how it's done read it .. http://www.schroth.com/installation-instructions/en/index.html
@sean klingelhoefer @LS1RX7_owen Pretty common actually for a manufacturers car. It makes the motor look better and sells more cars if they keep it stock. Once that gets enough press then they will develop it and show off what further potential it has.
@sean klingelhoefer @LS1RX7_owen Pretty common actually for a manufacturers car. It makes the motor look better and sells more cars if they keep it stock. Once that gets enough press then they will develop it and show off what further potential it has.
It's basically a car that Toyota and TRD are using to troll and tease the aftermarket tuners.
"Hey look at this car!! You see? Yeah! Your car will never be as awesome as this!"
It's basically a car that Toyota and TRD are using to troll and tease the aftermarket tuners.
"Hey look at this car!! You see? Yeah! Your car will never be as awesome as this!"
@roninlotus211 It's not exactly news that the Japanese seem to have a slightly different take on motorsport safety gear than the rest of the world, but I'd watch who you're calling idiots. Considering that this car was developed by the same people who build/ built Toyota's F1, Rally, LMP and Super GT cars, I'm pretty sure they have a better idea what they're doing than someone who's read the instruction manual that came with their harnesses.
That said, I certainly wouldn't run a harness mounted like that in my own car lol.
@roninlotus211 It's not exactly news that the Japanese seem to have a slightly different take on motorsport safety gear than the rest of the world, but I'd watch who you're calling idiots. Considering that this car was developed by the same people who build/ built Toyota's F1, Rally, LMP and Super GT cars, I'm pretty sure they have a better idea what they're doing than someone who's read the instruction manual that came with their harnesses.
That said, I certainly wouldn't run a harness mounted like that in my own car lol.
@ssbeane I'm sure once they're satisfied they'll make sure the world is well aware of the time.
@ssbeane I'm sure once they're satisfied they'll make sure the world is well aware of the time.
@BenjaminSaucier I wouldn't argue that it isn't an 86, I'd argue that it's a race car and not a tuned street car. There isn't much on a GT300 car that comes from the base model other than the roof skin.
@BenjaminSaucier I wouldn't argue that it isn't an 86, I'd argue that it's a race car and not a tuned street car. There isn't much on a GT300 car that comes from the base model other than the roof skin.
@KeithCharvonia After a fairly long discussion with TRD about future plans for the 86 it seems that they are only interested in NA tuning and want to keep the spirit of the original car intact.
@KeithCharvonia After a fairly long discussion with TRD about future plans for the 86 it seems that they are only interested in NA tuning and want to keep the spirit of the original car intact.
@apex_DNA The funny thing about the TE37SL is that, as you can see in the video, they came without the decals... so I suppose if you got them direct from the source you might be able to achieve a more stealthy look.
In regards to the wallpapers, the only images I even bothered to save in a larger size have already been posted. Sorry.
@apex_DNA The funny thing about the TE37SL is that, as you can see in the video, they came without the decals... so I suppose if you got them direct from the source you might be able to achieve a more stealthy look.
In regards to the wallpapers, the only images I even bothered to save in a larger size have already been posted. Sorry.
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211
If they run that car with that harness setup they are idiots plain and simple.... I've setup enough group B cars and Lotus to know better..oh but wait what do I know..?
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211
If they run that car with that harness setup they are idiots plain and simple.... I've setup enough group B cars and Lotus to know better..oh but wait what do I know..?
@roninlotus211 Again, I'm not arguing that this is the "right" way to do things, quite the contrary. But like I said, it's no secret the Japanese seem to like to walk on the wild side with safety, particularly in tuned street cars and time attack cars. You surely noticed that this car doesn't have a cage either - I'd be more worried about getting in a roll-over with a fixed back seat and a carbon fiber skin above my head and being crushed to death than I am about the way the harnesses are routed. Keep in mind that this is not a competition car, nor will it ever be driven wheel to wheel - I'm sure if this were a "real" racing vehicle, things would have probably been done a little differently.
@roninlotus211 Again, I'm not arguing that this is the "right" way to do things, quite the contrary. But like I said, it's no secret the Japanese seem to like to walk on the wild side with safety, particularly in tuned street cars and time attack cars. You surely noticed that this car doesn't have a cage either - I'd be more worried about getting in a roll-over with a fixed back seat and a carbon fiber skin above my head and being crushed to death than I am about the way the harnesses are routed. Keep in mind that this is not a competition car, nor will it ever be driven wheel to wheel - I'm sure if this were a "real" racing vehicle, things would have probably been done a little differently.
there is video of it being ran on tsukuba on youtube?.... sounds awesome.
there is video of it being ran on tsukuba on youtube?.... sounds awesome.
I know there are quite a lot 86s being featured already, but will you do a feature on the british GPRM built turbo GT86 for GT4 class racing? Because while I like these "race-inspired" build there is nothing better than real race car builds
I know there are quite a lot 86s being featured already, but will you do a feature on the british GPRM built turbo GT86 for GT4 class racing? Because while I like these "race-inspired" build there is nothing better than real race car builds
You look at these concepts from TRD and they are made to such higher standards than your average 'tuner.' Awesome car.
You look at these concepts from TRD and they are made to such higher standards than your average 'tuner.' Awesome car.
@roninlotus211 http://www.worldcarfans.com/111101437428/toyota-ft-86-gazoo-racing-coupe-spied-for-a-second-time/highphotos
You happy now? apparently they know this is not the ideal setup and they not give a f@#k about spinal compression or your group b expertise. plain and simple.
@roninlotus211 http://www.worldcarfans.com/111101437428/toyota-ft-86-gazoo-racing-coupe-spied-for-a-second-time/highphotos
You happy now? apparently they know this is not the ideal setup and they not give a f@#k about spinal compression or your group b expertise. plain and simple.
@ssbeane v=iGFHgbe0Epw 1:01.872
@ssbeane v=iGFHgbe0Epw 1:01.872
All this effort for 120kw???
All this effort for 120kw???
Its things like this that make sure my next "new" car will be a ZN6. I was originally always more keen on the BRZ (due to being a Subaru fan, and my weird bias to the "underdog"). However, Toyota are really impressing me with their level of commitment and enthusiasm they're showing the new car. I had originally written it off as Toyota throwing Subaru a load of money and saying "go make us a car we can add to the line up". On the contrary it seems they're taking real pride in what would be a low volume model (by Toyota's standards).
Well played Toyota, well played.
Its things like this that make sure my next "new" car will be a ZN6. I was originally always more keen on the BRZ (due to being a Subaru fan, and my weird bias to the "underdog"). However, Toyota are really impressing me with their level of commitment and enthusiasm they're showing the new car. I had originally written it off as Toyota throwing Subaru a load of money and saying "go make us a car we can add to the line up". On the contrary it seems they're taking real pride in what would be a low volume model (by Toyota's standards).
Well played Toyota, well played.
@ZacPortelli Seems you don't quite get the point of this car.
@ZacPortelli Seems you don't quite get the point of this car.
@sean klingelhoefer No doubt, but it's such a cliffhanger...
@sean klingelhoefer No doubt, but it's such a cliffhanger...
@HolySteel Hey thanks for finding that. Not a bad time for having no engine work done yet.
@HolySteel Hey thanks for finding that. Not a bad time for having no engine work done yet.
@manekineko @roninlotus211 I cant see why this harness setup is wrong.. please explain, im curious as to why this is wrong...
@manekineko @roninlotus211 I cant see why this harness setup is wrong.. please explain, im curious as to why this is wrong...
@SMRacing @manekineko @roninlotus211 The harness has to be installed at the correct angle behind the driver, otherwise in the event of a crash the forces applied to the person in the seat by the safety belts could harm the driver (in this case break his back)
@SMRacing @manekineko @roninlotus211 The harness has to be installed at the correct angle behind the driver, otherwise in the event of a crash the forces applied to the person in the seat by the safety belts could harm the driver (in this case break his back)
@Acc That's a question for our UK Speedhunters
@Acc That's a question for our UK Speedhunters
@ZacPortelli Technically, "al this effort" was only an exhaust system. They weren't aiming to add power.
@ZacPortelli Technically, "al this effort" was only an exhaust system. They weren't aiming to add power.
@ZacPortelli Technically, "all this effort" you speak of was only an exhaust system. They didn't perform any other power modifications as they weren't aiming to add power.
@ZacPortelli Technically, "all this effort" you speak of was only an exhaust system. They didn't perform any other power modifications as they weren't aiming to add power.
@Robo_No1 Oh yea it's a huge pet project for Toyota, the entire company seems to be taking part in the celebration of a cheap sports car for everyone. Like I mentioned in my GReddy FR-S story, my opinion of these cars has also turned around 180 from how I originally viewed them.
@Robo_No1 Oh yea it's a huge pet project for Toyota, the entire company seems to be taking part in the celebration of a cheap sports car for everyone. Like I mentioned in my GReddy FR-S story, my opinion of these cars has also turned around 180 from how I originally viewed them.
Great article on a fantastic car. It's nice to see serious tuning companies taking their time to develop something truly remarkable.
Great article on a fantastic car. It's nice to see serious tuning companies taking their time to develop something truly remarkable.
@manekineko @roninlotus211 yeah, that makes sense! thanks.
@manekineko @roninlotus211 yeah, that makes sense! thanks.
@sean klingelhoefer I can definitely agree with that view, both seem like they are very serious factory efforts. I feel like I'm seeing a big team effort on the two manufacturers parts. When I heard about the ratio of 86 to BRZ on top gear, I see the different cars the manufacturers are producing and showing off. They are really not stepping on each others toes. Anyways I think you said it yourself, no tuner shop could rise to this level of craftmanship. So then is the car itself disqualified from consideration? Meh it's a beautiful car, I see more visual imperfections on the BRZ. I just wish speedhunters had gotten as many nice shots of it as the griffon.
@sean klingelhoefer I can definitely agree with that view, both seem like they are very serious factory efforts. I feel like I'm seeing a big team effort on the two manufacturers parts. When I heard about the ratio of 86 to BRZ on top gear, I see the different cars the manufacturers are producing and showing off. They are really not stepping on each others toes. Anyways I think you said it yourself, no tuner shop could rise to this level of craftmanship. So then is the car itself disqualified from consideration? Meh it's a beautiful car, I see more visual imperfections on the BRZ. I just wish speedhunters had gotten as many nice shots of it as the griffon.
@sean klingelhoefer I can definitely agree with that view, both seem like they are very serious factory efforts. I feel like I'm seeing a big team effort on the two manufacturers parts. When I heard about the ratio of 86 to BRZ on top gear, I see the different cars the manufacturers are producing and showing off. They are really not stepping on each others toes. Anyways I think you said it yourself, no tuner shop could rise to this level of craftmanship. So then is the car itself disqualified from consideration? Meh it's a beautiful car, I see more visual imperfections on the BRZ. I just wish speedhunters had gotten as many nice shots of it as the griffon.
@sean klingelhoefer I can definitely agree with that view, both seem like they are very serious factory efforts. I feel like I'm seeing a big team effort on the two manufacturers parts. When I heard about the ratio of 86 to BRZ on top gear, I see the different cars the manufacturers are producing and showing off. They are really not stepping on each others toes. Anyways I think you said it yourself, no tuner shop could rise to this level of craftmanship. So then is the car itself disqualified from consideration? Meh it's a beautiful car, I see more visual imperfections on the BRZ. I just wish speedhunters had gotten as many nice shots of it as the griffon.
@sean klingelhoefer The thing that's exiting me more and more at the moment is thinking 2-4years in the future once these cars become more affordable, the amount of good quality parts that will be available will be amazing (thanks in no small part to the likes of TRD, Greddy, AVO etc.). I honestly can't wait to see more and more of these things making their way on to track days and drift days in the UK.
@sean klingelhoefer The thing that's exiting me more and more at the moment is thinking 2-4years in the future once these cars become more affordable, the amount of good quality parts that will be available will be amazing (thanks in no small part to the likes of TRD, Greddy, AVO etc.). I honestly can't wait to see more and more of these things making their way on to track days and drift days in the UK.
@sean klingelhoefer The thing that's exiting me more and more at the moment is thinking 2-4years in the future once these cars become more affordable, the amount of good quality parts that will be available will be amazing (thanks in no small part to the likes of TRD, Greddy, AVO etc.). I honestly can't wait to see more and more of these things making their way on to track days and drift days in the UK.
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
@sean klingelhoefer
Can't tell if infinite sarcasm, or infinite ignorance...
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
Great article. The only thing that gets me is why the went with a KW suspension. Im not knocking KW its just that TRD went through all the trouble of devoloping everything else from the breaks and bodywork and not even use there own suspension? I guess no harm though cause KW's are pretty damn good.
hope TRD make a lots of parts in the future for the 86. Like the supercharger kit, body pieces, drivetrain selection pieces, etc.
perpetualroad.wordpress.com
hope TRD make a lots of parts in the future for the 86. Like the supercharger kit, body pieces, drivetrain selection pieces, etc.
perpetualroad.wordpress.com
hope TRD make a lots of parts in the future for the 86. Like the supercharger kit, body pieces, drivetrain selection pieces, etc.
perpetualroad.wordpress.com
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing. Its the same reason they didn't make their own steering wheel, or rims, or tires, its just not worth it.
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing. Its the same reason they didn't make their own steering wheel, or rims, or tires, its just not worth it.
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing. Its the same reason they didn't make their own steering wheel, or rims, or tires, its just not worth it.
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing. Its the same reason they didn't make their own steering wheel, or rims, or tires, its just not worth it.
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@jcali the brakes weren't their own, they were brembos, and at some point, it costs too much money to invent your own system when there's one for sale that does the exact same thing
@RobFerreira @jcali
Yeah thats understandable but even though brembo did develope their breaks TRD are using there version of it. So I figure it was the same with the suspension. If you go to TRD's website they have their own version of suspension on there. I dont know if they made it in house or not but regardless they already have suspension specific for the gt86.
I was under the impression they got tons of money for R&D. I think they should partner with more companys to get more colaborations going on and create more TRD products. Like the Steering wheel, racing harness, and wheels.
@RobFerreira @jcali
Yeah thats understandable but even though brembo did develope their breaks TRD are using there version of it. So I figure it was the same with the suspension. If you go to TRD's website they have their own version of suspension on there. I dont know if they made it in house or not but regardless they already have suspension specific for the gt86.
I was under the impression they got tons of money for R&D. I think they should partner with more companys to get more colaborations going on and create more TRD products. Like the Steering wheel, racing harness, and wheels.
@RobFerreira @jcali
Yeah thats understandable but even though brembo did develope their breaks TRD are using there version of it. So I figure it was the same with the suspension. If you go to TRD's website they have their own version of suspension on there. I dont know if they made it in house or not but regardless they already have suspension specific for the gt86.
I was under the impression they got tons of money for R&D. I think they should partner with more companys to get more colaborations going on and create more TRD products. Like the Steering wheel, racing harness, and wheels.
@jcali @RobFerreira How do you know they aren't planning on partnering with KW to offer a racing suspension? They might be doing exactly what you suggest.
@jcali @RobFerreira How do you know they aren't planning on partnering with KW to offer a racing suspension? They might be doing exactly what you suggest.
@jcali @RobFerreira How do you know they aren't planning on partnering with KW to offer a racing suspension? They might be doing exactly what you suggest.
@sean klingelhoefer @RobFerreira
Huh? I never implied that they weren't partnering together or have future plans of that happening. The point I was trying to make was why didnt they just use their version of TRD suspension thats already been developed for the gt86. To me it would make sense to use there own branding for this demo car instead of using KW's regardless if they developed it or not.
@sean klingelhoefer @RobFerreira
Huh? I never implied that they weren't partnering together or have future plans of that happening. The point I was trying to make was why didnt they just use their version of TRD suspension thats already been developed for the gt86. To me it would make sense to use there own branding for this demo car instead of using KW's regardless if they developed it or not.
@sean klingelhoefer @RobFerreira
Huh? I never implied that they weren't partnering together or have future plans of that happening. The point I was trying to make was why didnt they just use their version of TRD suspension thats already been developed for the gt86. To me it would make sense to use there own branding for this demo car instead of using KW's regardless if they developed it or not.
I heard Toyota will be partnering with BMW soon though.
I heard Toyota will be partnering with BMW soon though.
I heard Toyota will be partnering with BMW soon though.
@jcali @RobFerreira Because the suspension they've already developed and sell for the 86 is nowhere near a competition level 3-way shock.
@jcali @RobFerreira Because the suspension they've already developed and sell for the 86 is nowhere near a competition level 3-way shock.
@jcali @RobFerreira Because the suspension they've already developed and sell for the 86 is nowhere near a competition level 3-way shock.
@jcali @RobFerreira Because the suspension they've already developed and sell for the 86 is nowhere near a competition level 3-way shock.
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211 Toyota's F1, Rally and LMP cars are/were built by TMG ( Toyota Motorsport Gmbh) which is a German company.
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211 Toyota's F1, Rally and LMP cars are/were built by TMG ( Toyota Motorsport Gmbh) which is a German company.
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211 I think you are referring to (TMG) Toyota Motorsport GmbH, formerly known as (TTE) Toyota Team Europe, which actually built those cars mentioned and has nothing to do with this car or the TRD.
@sean klingelhoefer @roninlotus211 I think you are referring to (TMG) Toyota Motorsport GmbH, formerly known as (TTE) Toyota Team Europe, which actually built those cars mentioned and has nothing to do with this car or the TRD.
got see it 2 weekg for me last, I want keep this pictures and I very like it, it's my favorite Parts TRD mostly than others! I have said many times TRD is the best tuning owner companies. And also D2 racing, don't jealous I got been take of 3 of my favorite. But Varius are ok, they has not tune so many cars collections. just like D2 has much more!..
Got to see it 2 week ago for me in a last, I want have keep this pictures and I'm very like it, it's my favorite Parts TRD mostly than others! I have said many times TRD is the best tuning owner companies myself. And also D2 racing, don't jealous I got been take of 3 of my favorite. But Varius are ok, they has not tune so many cars collections. just like D2 has much more!..
Oh forgot to say and 3rd one Tom's also my favorites parts too.
I thought I'd necropost a bit.
Having recently watched the 40th Anniversary of TRD movie on YouTube I have discovered the Griffon concept for myself and newfound love to 86/FR-S series. It is simply incredible what this car can do. Yes, the amount of money poured into this concept is unparalleled, but the result is nothing but astonishing!
Can I purchase a rear diffuser in my photo?