You took the words out of my mouth. The sound of the vehicle and the feel of the thrust isn't always going to be important during every second of the drive.
I sold my 86 because of the lack of power. Don't get me wrong, it's the most fun I've had in a road car in a mountain pass, but it's also one of the most boring cars in between those corners - and unless you live on a mountain pass, it'll spend most of its time driving straight lines. It either needed more power or to be a convertible. I've stuck to my old Evo as my weekend car for now.
@@JohnFromAccounting This is my favorite thing about my 13 FRS. I don’t even have steering wheel audio controls. There’s not a damn thing to break or worry about. It’s just a car with a radio and air conditioning. Cheap and fun.
Keiichi Tsuchiya, the Drift King, likes the new 86 as well as the old 86. That's a success for Toyota considering he was one of the popularisers of the AE86.
I like to think of the 86 as a go kart. You don't drive a ko-kart for it's raw power. You drive it because it's pure fun. You're low the ground, body roll is minimal, driving position is perfect and powering through tight corners never gets old
People keep talking about the 86 being "slow". It never was meant for speed. Do people really expect this to be fast like a mustang corvette charger etc and also handle the same? Expecting so much, but not UNDERSTANDING the CONCEPT of the car. If you want something fast, this is not the car for you. If you want something slow yet feels fast and affordable, then this is it.
Slow is not the problem. Take any great high revving naturally aspirated sports car from the past 20 years, be it porsche, Honda, Toyota etc. They all have a special character and feel to them. The FA20 is not that, it revs for the sake of it, does not have enjoyable harmonics. And when you dig into you understand why. Toyota wanted it and Subaru said thats not something we do. So what you get is a compromised design which leaves a lack luster feel on the driving experience.
@@savagegeese exactly!! You said it best. I drove around my brothers BRZ and although it's a fun car it doesn't feel as special. It feels more like a compromised vehicle.
The 86 is a storied name in the car world. Part of that name was in the 4AGE engine and a huge part of that was the sound. It might be my favorite engine sound of all time... This 86 platform should have had a sonorous engine and they put... that thing in there.
I really miss my BRZ. I have rarely felt as connected to a vehicle as with that one. I even made a 3600 mile road trip in mine. I am grateful that Toyota/Subaru made them.
I used to drive my dad's '08 BMW M3 for a while before I got my BRZ, and I gotta say the BRZ is more fun to steer, turn, shift, brake. M3's engine was god-like though.
you can say whatever all you want but ultimately you SOLD it sooooooo... it sucked. admit it. and so should everyone else who says "IT WAS SUCH A GREAT CAR... BUT THEN I SOLD IT".
Watch, despite all of the flaws that the car has and the of the people, in 10 years or more people will be looking at these the way we look at NA miatas and integras
Exactly my thoughts, it's one of those cars that people will trash and then 15 years later it'll be sought after stock and complaining how they don't make cars like this anymore
Grantapalooza all the toxic trolls are ruining the car community. car company’s will stop making “coupe sports cars” and then the trolls will cry saying “why don’t car companies like car enthusiasts”🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴
@@mojojoji5493 people always hate cars when they're new or common. For example the mk4 supra new wasn't even a sales success and it was relatively cheap to buy used for awhile until 20 years later people went crazy about them. The same way people view 80's and 90's cars now will be most likely how we view 2000's and 2010's cars. In a future of electric/hybrid suvs, people will miss the Scion tc or Hyundai veloster, the frs/brz, genesis Coupe, cobalt ss, basically all the cars we have now that come in manual transmission or coupe style hatches will probably be gone. So appreciate the Scion tc now cause it's probably the Honda prelude of the future. I might be wrong, but that's what it seems like happens with relatively common cars of now 15-20 years later
I've had my FR-S for 5 years now, and I can say it's a forever car. It's light, it's simple, and it's direct. I don't want extra frills and features, I want to focus on driving.
I agree 100%. I bought my 2014 new in Dec 2013 for a few reasons: wanted to wait till the 2nd model year (my philosophy is to wait so initial model year bugs are hopefully worked out-the valve spring recall on the 2013 perhaps proves that out); I fell in love with the styling; I own other Toyota products and they have been relatively bulletproof (even though this is really a Subaru I felt it was a chance worth taking since Toyota was involved); I love the gas mileage (yeah, I have an auto trans-don't judge me for that); and of course the handling is great. The power problem and the engine sound don't bother me. I'm not looking to race anybody. I love my car! It is completely stock. Maybe that's part of why after 78,000 miles, I have had no mechanical issues. Full disclosure: I have a sound which is either a bearing going or something with my tires. Outcome to be determined.
Just recently bought an MX5 NC, and I echo your words exactly. It's all about being fully immersed in the driving experience, to feel at one with your machine and clear your head of life's problems. I will never let that car go. Have fun.
They may work fine on computers, but identical, multi-function buttons on newer cars, make you have to keep on looking down when you are driving. Old cars used to have all kinds of different shaped knobs. They also had slider buttons, push buttons, etc.. You knew what the control is by the feel of it. You *never* had to look down. Go to an antique car gatherings and observe them.
I drove my nephews 86 for 20 minutes and fell in love with driving again. I bought my own MY14 GTS (Australia) in November 2018 and it's the best thing I have ever done for myself. It puts a smile on my face just looking at it. I have added decent tyres, TRD springs and sways, added Whiteline bushings to the gearbox, diff and rear subframe and I feel like this car is now where it should have been from the factory. The interior is cheap and the sound system is crap but I understand why - keeps the price down, keeps weight down and more importantly the twins were built to modify, you can change pretty much change everything and anything you like with this car as the aftermarket parts availability is just incredible. I love that I can wring the neck out of this car and it won't try to kill me. It is making me a better driver because of it. I'm glad you guys went back for a final look. Yes it is flawed, but what isn't? It's a great car and I think in time it will become a classic.
Honda is stupid... they know they would sell those like hot pockets. The thing is now there are more emissions. That engine would be smaller like the new si's eith a turbo making roughly the same power.
This is the first time I watched this channel, and I was truly surprised by your honesty about the car. This is very rare to find in a car reviewer, and I thank you for giving us the true, full picture about this car!
I guess I drive a FEEDER CAR. I didn’t know it till now. Being my first ever performance anything, I decided at 64 I wanted to go out on a limb and buy something ludicrous for once. I tested Miatas for years actually, I was awaiting 2019 new Club to hit dealerships before making the leap. Only real concern at the time was HEAT stroke. I live in the desert, Club model’s sun-baked rag top literally felt like my bald head was being baked it was so hot. Miatas A/C was meek unable to cool the interior. Hard top model I could not fit at all. Interior room. Horrid. I never realized how bad passenger side was until my wife had us switch on a test drive. Now, keep in mind I went in believing this was THE ONE for me. Despite the negative stated above. Long story short. Wife called me had me come ASAP to her Toyota dealership wanting me to see an 86. It was over 103 that day. Sitting in the parking lot. When I turned the A/C on within minutes-I began too rethink my decision. MORE roominess, WAY more comfy passenger space. Trunk fold down rear seat offered excellent stuff space. Car was the Base. TRD wheels/tires that was it. within 1/4 of the test drive I wanted it. I was way more comfortable in the 86 versus the Miata. Although, if I were well-off, I’d have a Miata for sure. I just wouldn’t drive it on really hot days is all. I bought my car knowing I would do nothing to alter it. I go frolic in the twisties staying in my lane. I have no aspirations to going fast just going cornering knowing my lil car can thrill me doing 55 in a 20 mph corner without worry I’ll go over the edge landing fifty feet below, the creek bed. My 86 Base is an E-ticket ride too my inner self. Better than going to DisneyLand. My car also saves me from myself. My overdoing it when I fail to see a motorcycle cop hidden looking to pop somebody an suddenly I look at my speed and began laughing. Miata is also that way. Both cars share a simple desire; “Being The Poor Man’s performance car” on a budget. And, thats my story.
I bought my 2019 brz performance pack 8 months ago and first thing I did was get rid of the torque dip with headers, the OFT tune, and sometimes E-85 in the summer and everyday i look forward to driving. I never had a car that made driving the highlight of my day. But I am a car enthusiasts I think very few people understand this type of platform.
You did the right thing! Headers, a tune, and tires are the best things you can do to these cars. With that they are such a joy to drive. It is sad cars like it and the miata are the only real lightweight affordable sports cars out there.
I did the header and tune already a couple years ago. Thinking about doing flex fuel next. How much of a difference was it for you? Would you do it again?
@RJ mi I got my header and tune used for 600 bucks. I bought the car fully loaded with 5,200 miles for a hair over 20k. Everything else at the price point has a different compromise. Reliability, maintenance costs, tech/age, handling, usability, etc. Every car comes with something. A couple bolt on power adders is the easiest, and probably cheapest, thing to "fix".
As much as I agree with almost everything said about the motor, everyone is forgetting one thing. The boxer motors that Subaru make are known for allowing the car to have a lower center of gravity as they sit so low in the engine bay. I know it doesn't sound like a huge deal, but this really does have an effect on the handling of the car.
It would mean a lot more if 58 percent of the weight wasn't still hanging over the front wheels.. they killed the inline awd, possible the biggest reason to use a flat four, to push the engine behind the front axle and look how much weight is still up front. It will never feel as nimble or light or tossable as a Miata without addressing this.
@@CSLFiero if they can somehow make a steering shaft that can "snake around" the super wide engine and be able to mount the steering rack in front of the engine push the engine backwards.
I love these cars. I bought mine as soon as I found one (FRS) available locally in 2013. I embraced the “race car” and enjoy the loud nature of the car. I also kind of like the 1990’s nature of the early cars, disconnect that ABS fuse and it is 1980’s sports car, 100%. I cannot bring myself to part with mine, I just don’t know what I would replace it with, short of just buying another one. Mine has 87k + miles on it and it is super raw. I replaced the blown OEM shocks with Tein coil overs, when the clutch throw out bearing failed (the only failure I have had) I replaced it with a new bearing, clutch and lighter flywheel (65k miles). I replaced the rotors with higher quality vented and I’m running EBC reds in the rear, yellows in the front. All the fluids are Motul. Oh...and I have been through 9 sets of tires during my ownership thus far, yep...9! I have tried a different type of tire every time and found it’s important to not over tire the car. I deleted the entire 20lbs of muffler with a Nameless Delete - simple, light and it sounds terrific. I love this car, there just is not another car available giving the same driving experience. You can flog it to death every time you get into it, which is my sole purpose for a sports car. I absolutely love mine. I will keep it until the motor blows up, rebuild it and keep driving. It has plenty of power for the street, you just have to stay on top of it, you have to be in the right gear, you have to maintain momentum. It is fabulous.
Gosh 7 years fly by. I am kind of glad that these soldiered on. I see a lot of young fellows in them as a first reliable foray into spirited motoring. Yeah they got panned for being down on power. I panned it too. My opinions have softened with time though (Now a Miata owner. So who am I to talk) Ultimately, Its a good car and I recommend it where I can.
It's a great car to learn proper driving technique that can still be somewhat practical as a daily. I owned one for 4 years & it's what got me loving small, light. RWD cars. Moved on to a S2K but will always have a soft spot for the 86.
That’s how I feel about my S2000 redlining to get up to speed while modern cars out pace me merging on the highway. Different times now where a golf with a dsg will out run a s2k.
Alex Strömberg you don’t enjoy pushing sports cars to their limits as often as possible? Sports cars might not be for you. What you’re asking for is a Grand Tourer, or GT car. These represent the vast majority of what most people call “sports cars,” so there are plenty to choose from. Please, stop asking a rare breed to become another GT car. Pizza’s great, but I don’t expect every meal to feature it.
It's not slow. Well into the early 2000s, we still had cars making under 100 HP, and double-digit 0-60 times. Meanwhile, speed limits have NOT changed. We're just blessed with a plethora of fast options now.
Andres Ramos yeah it’s just the powerband of NA cars. The E60 M5 and the E92 M3 are like that too. All the power is in the upper end. Some people just don’t get that.
I've loved this car ever since they introduced it in 2012. I bought a 2015 BRZ Limited and found that it's joys are balanced by it's shortcomings. But it's shortcomings can be fixed: the aftermarket has a multitude of solutions for whatever you perceive this car's problems to be. I won't say that this is the first car I have ever modified, but I've done more to this car than all the cars I have owned over the past 40 years. Torque dip? Solved with a catted header and an Open Flash tune. Blind spots? Convex door mirrors and an aftermarket backup camera. Lame sounding engine? Install a Cat-back. It slides too easily? Get Pilots for Summer and a good set of Winter tires (Thank you, TireRack). Sound System is atrocious? Oh, there are a number of solutions to that problem, but I took the simple route of replacing all the cheap OEM speakers with carefully selected Polk Audio and Infinity Reference speakers. BTW: Neodymium speaker magnets weigh nothing compared to the ferrite speaker magnets they replaced! Replacing the speakers can be a weight reduction! It isn't quite "audiophile" but I can at least recognize the music I'm listening to. Too much noise? Add sound deadening. I know I've done more, but this car is a pure joy to drive and I know it's mine.
@@stmaier3288 You can tell he's just much more enthusiastic about this car than most cars they review. That's one thing I really respect about this channel; you can tell if a car's good in the first few minutes by the way that they act - they won't be fake happy about a trash CVT crossover because they're true car people
You are absolutely missing out on 50% of what makes this vehicle amazing if you are driving it in Automatic. This is coming from someone who purchased a $30k+ 6-Speed Manual and learned how to drive standard inside it day by day. Please, do not speak on the car if you drive it in Auto... you have successfully robbed it of its true character. I own a 2019 TRD Edition GT-86. By far the best car I’ve ever driven/owned. The way that car handles is a dream, it’s just absolutely glued to the road. It shifts seamlessly and picks up fairly quickly despite what many say. It’s a beautiful car and it sounds beautiful too. The steering, the chassis, the weight, the way it drives and the way it drifts is amazing. I love this car to death and I’ll never sell it. It’s getting supercharged by edelbrock fairly soon but for what it is, it’s extremely fun at high RPM’s and if you’re any good at driving a 6MT, then you’ll whip this thing around with a smile on your face every second. Driving is something I look forward to everyday because of my 86. Get one (in standard) & enjoy!
@RICKY I had never heard of this channel so I checked it out. I 'sampled' the review of the Golf R. It was pretty painful just getting past the first couple of minutes. After that, I found very little information about the car. It's mostly just satire and crude humor. I would equate it to a car reviewer version of Angry Video Game Nerd. This channel is definitely an acquired taste, which I don't see myself acquiring. No thanks, Mr. Regular; I'll take Mr. Goose.
The original FR-S video(s) are what brought me to this channel. The channel has evolved so much since then. Feels good to come back to another 86 car review after all this time. Like a highschool reunion, but with slightly less rod knock.
@@WhirlingMusic Just a short-shift kit, which was a great mod to give an even sportier, tighter feel to it all. I've resisted spending money on anything major all these years, but after having zero problems with it and pretty low, 50kish mileage, I would love to finally add more power to this thing, and would go great with some grippy summer tires. I know supercharger kits for it have always been super popular, hmm...
I own a 2017 automatic Toyota 86 . My car still puts tons of smiles on my face. JUST GET RID OF THE MICHELIN PRIMUS stock tires and put on the Pilot Sport4 Michelin tires and you'll thank me for it. This car is a blast and every single horse power is usualble . And the cars gets many many second looks from passersby ..... this car is one sexy biotch !
I drove those stock Prius tires to the ground by doing donuts and drifting, it was a ton of fun with those tires. So before you get rid of them..."get rid of them" the fun way ;) For track use I put on Firehawk Indy 500s, super affordable and grippy enough for the track.
I daily drove an na Miata for years, the only thing wrong with it, is the lack of space. This would be the perfect car except the Subaru engine that turns me off from it. Wish it was an Inline 4
@major wow I have nothing against them, I think they're unique and cool, I just like the mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance of an inline. But only because I'm use to that
Seriously... seven years to "figure out" a car... regardless of a joint venture problem or just plain laziness, relying on customers for feedback on the kinks that should have been smoothed out before release is plain and simple a punch in the gut. The same goes for the engine : having to wait for two years, then another two to get engine "improvements", which were not so much an improvement as they were "needed critical fixes", is mind-boggling to me. Anyway, I strongly agree on one point : in today's market, getting a "true" driver's car with analog inputs and genuine road feel, is priceless. Yeah ! One point for Toyoru...
Happy FRS owner here going on 8 years (got my 13 in 2012). Besides the recall have had few issues. Still really love the car and haven’t found anything I’d rather own. Of course, I do also own a sedan for carting around people and winter wonderland driving here in Michigan. Very much looking forward to seeing what Toyota has planned for a second generation.
Anyone still hating on this platform after 7 years, has never driven it and/or is not a real driver/car enthusiast. This chassis is unanimously more respected and feels better than most 35k cars like the sti, rs, miata, veloster, type r, and gti. As for its spirit, it is the successor of the jdm corolla 85/86 trueno or levin style, which the most powerful trim, the GT-S with the famous 4AGE, had 112hp at the crank, a weight of 2400lbs and no power steering. In that regard, it is an outrageous successor and we are lucky to begin with that Toyota spent millions in R&D to revive a platform that died for 26years. Toyota doesnt manufacture great low displacement engines anymore so they took the right business decision and partner up with Subaru making some of the torquiest engine for displacement. Now 400lbs heavier with nearly double the power, handling of this chassis is in the top of all time greats, chassis and wheel feedback is really really great, both the automatic and 6speed manual are respectively sharp/quick and precise/notchy, steering isnt porsche but its in the top of the entire consumer car market and if you cant understand or feel any of this, well, bang for the buck it is also unbeatable. The car talks to you it lets you know where it is on the road, the amount of grip you have, its predictable and manageable. Its a great sports car, its so good that its vastly used at the Pro level in many motorsport disciplines. Just drive one!
This car is definitely going to appreciate in value 10 years from now. Were it not for the Miata, this would be the end of an era for "pure" RWD sports cars.
Yeah, I doubt it. There are so many better cars out there. This thing is a rattle trap that never got a decent engine. Used ones are cheap as hell for a reason.
I doubt it will ever appreciate but I can see it holding its value many years from now when they become hard to find. Like a nissan 240sx. As it is right now it's a more than a bit overpriced brand new, you get a more accurate value on the used market
I went with a Miata rf because it offers the style of a coupe with the optional open air driving of a convertible, but the BRZ/86 was definitely on my short list.
I love the way this car looks and feels when you drive, you're not the fastest and it's not about that, it just feels like you're driving a sleek/ agile car.
As far as the sound is concerned, plugging the sound tube outlet in the passenger floor (the 12v outlet cover from the glovebox fits the hole perfectly) and installing a Corsa Performance exhaust honestly makes this one of the best sounding 4cyl cars ever. Doesn't compare to my 981 Cayman of course but what does.
It's the perfect car representation of the 2010 decade, 80's nostalgia all around to people who haven't lived through the 80's. The engine sounds like shit, but it's refreshing to have an actual engine sound that wasn't engineered to have unneeded artificial pops and bangs or no sound at all. "Ah the good old days".
I built one on Toyotas website, with no luxury options and it was MSRP a little $31,000. I immediately got excited that I could order this car the way I want it. The temptation is so hard...
After driving and reviewing the 30th anniversary Miata which has the recaros and brembos, I have to say, the miata is the more fun car to drive everyday. Of course, that is subjective, and I encourage anyone reading this to go out and drive both, then make their own decision.
@@iheartgs400 that would be an interesting combo. I firmly believe Toyota could have given the engine a decent 2.0 or even a bigger 2.4 hell why not. lean it over so it keeps the short roof line and maybe jazz it up with ITB"s for the sport models. the new miata revision is bad ass. now as for driving everyday. the miata is "better" but you compromise usability, and thats what seperates the two cars., they are NOT in the same class as far as functionality. as a guy who's owned both. the miata is a "two car garage" car and the 86 is a single car garage car.
@@ZackNakazora1 good take. Good to hear from someone who owns both as well. Think it just depends on whether or not you have a big family with kids, or if you need back seats for extra storage.
Hey Mark you are truly a pioneer in independent automotive reviews. Your style and quality are top notch. I really feel like I spent a couple days with the vehicle myself at the end of each of your reviews. Keep up the great work.
Coastaku not disagreeing that the 370 is ugly af, but I own an Infiniti that spent 90% of its life in Rhode Island, and it has little to no rust. And it’s last two years in my ownership was still spent in the rust belt.
It's a great daily! I was able to make it home with winter tires on a 30km drive home in 25cm unplowed snowstorm. Never got stuck once and made it up hill that some cars with winter tires got stuck on. Love this car. Thanks for the send off video for the BRZ/FRS
I ordered my 86GT Last year. Same color as this one. I love my car! No complaints here, I also did have a 2014 Scion FR-S. I could tell right away the changes they had made. Toyota/Subaru did a good job. I would say who ever is considering this car, if you haven’t yet. Drive it and see for yourself. The 86/BRZ isn’t for everyone. I’ve been told by my family/friends that have gone for a ride in my car. Say they love it.
Finaly after a very long time got to test drive a low mile 2019 TRD and pulled the trigger will be picking it up tomorrow from the dealership. The 15 min test drive was more than enough to convince me that it will be the fun car I have been looking for a few years at this point! Thanks for all of your videos they made a faint impact in me getting interested and finally pulling the trigger on one of these. Keep up the honest and detailed content coming!
what's seeming most likely based on supposed leaks is that it'll get the 2.4L turbo flat-4 from the Ascent (and now the Outback and Legacy XT). Toyota might insist on having both port/direct injection as they did on the FA20, where the Subaru version is just straight-up DI. That engine makes 260HP and 277 lb-ft of torque in the Ascent. (www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/future-cars/a19682494/theres-a-next-gen-toyota-86-and-subaru-brz-coming-and-it-might-have-more-power/)
That 0-60 made my low compression RX-8 look fast. Genuinely love the GT86 though. I wish it had a a little bit more displacement to help move it along in the mid range.
Hey Dezoris, Hell of a review - and I bet it causes the same emotions in you as it does me. I remember your salty review of the FR-S right when I had bought mine and I'm delighted that your journey has taken you to this point of creating quality content that we don't deserve. Thanks for all your hard work and effort over the years.
I've owned three of these chassis - a 2015 FRS, traded into a 2017 BRZ Inazuma (first time Sachs and Brembos offered in Canada) which got T-boned, and now a used 2014 FRS. I've loved them all, and that's why I keep buying them. It's nice to finally see some reviewers point out how superior the Sachs dampers and final suspension tuning is on these cars. "Reminds me of the Ohlins Road and Track set up on the 2013... Smooth over every pavement type... It's completely neutral" That's why I actually did that (VERY expensive) trade up to the Inazuma. The suspension was night and day. I encourage anyone to drive the Sachs damper cars over a rough backroad and not come away totally impressed. My current 2014 FRS, I have to slow down on bumpy roads cause the car will be bounce around, and the rear could come loose, but the 2017 Sachs-equipped car would just never require you to slow down. It was amazing.
I must say, Jack really nailed the solo beginning parts of this review really well. The script felt very cohesive and he seemed engaged and brought us, the audience in with him. I'm glad to see (or notice, rather) the improvement. I do have one criticism however, I don't know if it's his speaking style or the way the audio was handled but Jack's voice sounds kind of quiet and muddy prior to the Shoppe segment. I know I shouldn't be criticizing anyone with the way my sentence structure is, but it feels great to see effort paying off and I wanted to add my 2¢.
😆 that sound tube. I plugged that real quick. Fortunately it's one plug in the passenger fire wall that takes 30 seconds by grabbing it from the 12V in the glovebox.
this car is going to be an instant classic for a fun to use car! like how the miata became! I may not like this car for its practicality, but this car is legit fun to drive!
I have a 2019 BRZ with performance package and I love it. But I am in the mountains on the east coast with super windy roads... Exactly what this car was made for. You all would like this car so much more here than on those flat, long roads in the mid west. That fact it can get 30 MPG too... and carry groceries? I love mine. And it wasn't that expensive. For me, it's pretty much the perfect driver's car.
next iteration is something i am looking forward to. other than the engine, the car is unbelievably great. drove one, and the connection you feel to the road is translucent. would be one of the true greats, unless it was for a rough and even cheap feeling engine.
I bought a 2020 BRZ tS - best, most perfect car for me, reunites and balances everything i ever dreamed of in a car, including simplicity and even a trunk. handles extremely well on my backcountry curves. I actually really like the unique engine sound that some criticize.
Yup they want you to be proud of your torque dip, whats funny to me is that you dont know how much torque you actually have cuz there arent numbers written on the graph so for what you know you might be using 100000000000 Nm of torque 😂
It’s a torque bump. Not a dip. If revved before and after the dip, you have a dual purpose powerband. But everyone loves seeing the glass as half empty instead of half full. It was what the AP2 ended up doing eventually too. Added displacement for more low end torque.
@@ivanzavala307 And that "bump" utterly sucks. Look at it, the torque plummets for what, 500 revs? Makes it so you can drive either like my late grandmother or go full ass. What a feature, I love my car to be bipolar. I think they should electronically simulate massive turbo lag as well.
Excellent video. It's refreshing to see a heartfelt and time-hardened summary and comparison of the 86, when everyone else seems to be focusing on new models simply because they're out next month. It felt like a love letter but at the same time, a break-up note.
TOTALLY AGREE!! Most of us watch these reviews for Marks unique approach and sense of humor. Jack is a cool dude, but when I see the intro starting with him it’s a huge “WOMP WOMP” .
@@davidxavier1396 yes, MARK = SAVAGEGEESE. The cynical humor in him is so good, that's what makes him the star. Jack gives great commentary and is very professional, and def adds to the content and reviews.
I work at a Toyota dealer and wherever a customers comes for service with his or her 86 I eye it so bad to drive it and park it. It’s not fast, techy, and etc. But it’s fun for enthusiasts who love to drive and feel the car
yes succ dry oil, the d4s was made to be a better in reliability not power engine than subaru's own ej20/25 etc this car was made for enjoyment over all else not to be the next budget porsche
I’ve had my supercharged FRS for 3 years now, 99k miles, about 5-10 hours of track time. I’ve had a love/hate relationship with this thing. Super fun to drive both on back roads and track, pain in the ass to work on. Spark plugs, timing cover leaks, direct injector seals, you name it. Sometimes I want to drive it off a cliff with me in it
I appreciate how objective you guys were. I traded in my 2014 FRS with 6k miles because I wasn't driving it and eventually bought a 2008 Miata. The Miata had over 100k, but felt like a better sports car. There is less lag, it is more fun at low speeds, I like the top down option, and because it was a smaller investment, it could be a part time car vs full time. The FRS is fun, I wouldn't recommend for a main car. I also had a 1986 Corvette, they were comparable in acceleration, the FRS was better in handling, but if you were cruising and suddenly wanted to be going faster, the corvette was way better. FYI, I did regularly get over 30 mpg with the FRS, and I felt like the power was good, unless you were cruising and hit the gas. *I just remembered, I decided to trade in the FRS after driving it in a snow storm, I couldn't keep it on the road. It was literally worse than a 1968 Mustang I had. It sounds like maybe this was addressed in the update.
After owning my frs for over a year and getting the chance to drive a couple of nd miatas, I'm so excited to see someone finally understand how this car feels more fun on the street than the nd. Taking the convertible out of the equation, I found the nd to be almost a hair too refined to have fun; the transmission is smoother but less mechanical feeling, the steering is sharp but feels less connected, the engine (in the nd1 at least) has a broad torque curve but ultimately just seems like any other na 4 cylinder out of an economy car. Tack that on to hardly fitting in the car (I'm 6'2") and I just couldn't see what the fuss was about. Yes they are faster in an autocross, and on certain tracks. But faster doesn't mean more fun, and since 98% of my driving is on the street, I'll take my frs. Mazda set out to build a great platform. Toyota and Subaru set out to build a great car. Both are still good at what the other one does, just depends on what you want.
Detailed, quality review. So much of the discussion about this car is about the engine's lack of oomph and sparkle, which is a pity as that often tends to drown out discussion about its beguiling qualities. The guys covered it well; driving position, low centre of gravity, pedal box, control weights, chassis balance; this spec car is really a driving enthusiast's delight. Absolutely delighted with my 2017 BRZ PPL. The only modern cars I've driven that provide the same sense of connection and interaction are MX5s and 911s.
I'm coming from a 1990 Miata, so I'm used to rattles, bad highway gearing, no driver aids, no safety, no power, bad sound system, and an overall loud driving experience. So honestly I am having a hard time picturing what driving a new car would feel like. The BRZ/FRS definitely looks good and a lot more comfortable and faster than what I'm used to. I would definitely like to try driving one someday.
Here's something I think people forget: this vehicle is obviously playing homage to the original 86, the Corolla Sprinter Trueno. It was a realtively slow front engine, 2 door, naturally aspirated inline 4, 50/50 split weight, rear wheel drive coupe. This new one is literally all that, except it axes it's corolla roots with various upgrades like stiffness and horsepower. I think people often forget the formula of this car.
But it's been 25+ years. A tuned black top for one of those AE86's has as much power and it's 200kg lighter. They dropped the ball, it's the future, welcome Toyota.
Yup first mod on my MY15 BRZ was to tare out the entire audio system and tossed it in the trash, where it belongs. Replaced it with a nice Pioneer head unit, small 4 channel amp under the passenger seat, new speakers all round including 5.25" units in the rear side walls (stock are 3") and a neat Pioneer twin 16cm powered sub, that only weighs a few kg, in the boot strapped to the back of the fold down seat. World of difference if you like music and managed to massage the weight distribution too.
A little late to the video, but I own a 2013 FR-S and will never let it go until the day I die. I learned to drive manual in it, I did my first track days in it, so many memories associated with a fantastic driver's car. Looking back, it kind of feels like a steal to get such a well sorted car at this price point. Here's to hoping the next gen does it justice!
A disposable feeder car? No. I think allot more consideration and engineering when into this car than you’re giving it credit for. It’s not a 911 Porsche but cars are only disposable if you don’t respect them and treat them that way. I know some cars with much lesser build quality that are considered treasures because of WHERE the perspective companies chose to invest as opposed to where they didn’t.
had my 2020 for 4 months now, and wow it is an amazing car. I see why people say its underpowered, but living on one of the best low key driving roads in America I get to really use the car what it was made for.... Touge.
Everybody’s a race car driver on the internet. Out in the real world this car gets the job done just fine.
So true. And many of the people complaining about the lack of power in the 86/BRZ wouldn't even be able to properly use what it has on track.
You took the words out of my mouth. The sound of the vehicle and the feel of the thrust isn't always going to be important during every second of the drive.
@oFriskyPanda wow, you can read the brochure
You would still get smoked
I sold my 86 because of the lack of power. Don't get me wrong, it's the most fun I've had in a road car in a mountain pass, but it's also one of the most boring cars in between those corners - and unless you live on a mountain pass, it'll spend most of its time driving straight lines. It either needed more power or to be a convertible. I've stuck to my old Evo as my weekend car for now.
Although subjective, One thing i never hear mentioned is how good this car looks. It is a entry level car that loooks high end.
On the outside yeah but the inside looks a little dated
@@poisonpotato1 The interior is pretty spartan. There's not much to talk about, and for a lot of people that's a good thing.
You spend most of your time inside the car, so interior quality is way more important than exterior looks.
@@optimusprimee but then again you get to know that your driving a awesome looking car
@@JohnFromAccounting This is my favorite thing about my 13 FRS. I don’t even have steering wheel audio controls. There’s not a damn thing to break or worry about. It’s just a car with a radio and air conditioning. Cheap and fun.
Like the ae86, this is a car everyone will appreciate 20 years from now.
Keiichi Tsuchiya, the Drift King, likes the new 86 as well as the old 86. That's a success for Toyota considering he was one of the popularisers of the AE86.
The 86 wouldn't have the reputation it does if it wasn't for Initial D.
@@wiselinkmarque3947 2020 Corvette is in a entirely different league
@@wiselinkmarque3947 great car tho
@@tempestandacomputer6951 honestly I think that the car exists quite a bit because of initial D
I like to think of the 86 as a go kart. You don't drive a ko-kart for it's raw power. You drive it because it's pure fun. You're low the ground, body roll is minimal, driving position is perfect and powering through tight corners never gets old
People keep talking about the 86 being "slow". It never was meant for speed. Do people really expect this to be fast like a mustang corvette charger etc and also handle the same? Expecting so much, but not UNDERSTANDING the CONCEPT of the car. If you want something fast, this is not the car for you. If you want something slow yet feels fast and affordable, then this is it.
Slow is not the problem. Take any great high revving naturally aspirated sports car from the past 20 years, be it porsche, Honda, Toyota etc. They all have a special character and feel to them. The FA20 is not that, it revs for the sake of it, does not have enjoyable harmonics. And when you dig into you understand why. Toyota wanted it and Subaru said thats not something we do. So what you get is a compromised design which leaves a lack luster feel on the driving experience.
@@savagegeese Toyota has one of the worlds most thermally efficient 2.0t engines in lexus. That, is what needs to go into the next 86.
@@savagegeese exactly!! You said it best. I drove around my brothers BRZ and although it's a fun car it doesn't feel as special. It feels more like a compromised vehicle.
I didn't need fast, but free reving engine the 86 is not. I'm very happy with the S2000 now :)
The 86 is a storied name in the car world. Part of that name was in the 4AGE engine and a huge part of that was the sound. It might be my favorite engine sound of all time... This 86 platform should have had a sonorous engine and they put... that thing in there.
I really miss my BRZ. I have rarely felt as connected to a vehicle as with that one. I even made a 3600 mile road trip in mine. I am grateful that Toyota/Subaru made them.
I used to drive my dad's '08 BMW M3 for a while before I got my BRZ, and I gotta say the BRZ is more fun to steer, turn, shift, brake. M3's engine was god-like though.
you can say whatever all you want but ultimately you SOLD it sooooooo... it sucked. admit it. and so should everyone else who says "IT WAS SUCH A GREAT CAR... BUT THEN I SOLD IT".
Why'd you get rid of it?
@@Fuffcat I didnt even read your comment but was about to say the same thing.
@@Fuffcat maybe his kids growing up..u never knew what's his reason behind and presumption doesnt help
Watch, despite all of the flaws that the car has and the of the people, in 10 years or more people will be looking at these the way we look at NA miatas and integras
pretty sure it will be the new 240. works well for drifting and tuning but considered underpowerde at the time.
Exactly my thoughts, it's one of those cars that people will trash and then 15 years later it'll be sought after stock and complaining how they don't make cars like this anymore
Grantapalooza all the toxic trolls are ruining the car community. car company’s will stop making “coupe sports cars” and then the trolls will cry saying “why don’t car companies like car enthusiasts”🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴
Will these subbie engines last though? Old nissan and toyota engines were great, but a boxer? I don't know m8
@@mojojoji5493 people always hate cars when they're new or common. For example the mk4 supra new wasn't even a sales success and it was relatively cheap to buy used for awhile until 20 years later people went crazy about them. The same way people view 80's and 90's cars now will be most likely how we view 2000's and 2010's cars. In a future of electric/hybrid suvs, people will miss the Scion tc or Hyundai veloster, the frs/brz, genesis Coupe, cobalt ss, basically all the cars we have now that come in manual transmission or coupe style hatches will probably be gone. So appreciate the Scion tc now cause it's probably the Honda prelude of the future. I might be wrong, but that's what it seems like happens with relatively common cars of now 15-20 years later
I've had my FR-S for 5 years now, and I can say it's a forever car. It's light, it's simple, and it's direct. I don't want extra frills and features, I want to focus on driving.
I agree 100%. I bought my 2014 new in Dec 2013 for a few reasons: wanted to wait till the 2nd model year (my philosophy is to wait so initial model year bugs are hopefully worked out-the valve spring recall on the 2013 perhaps proves that out); I fell in love with the styling; I own other Toyota products and they have been relatively bulletproof (even though this is really a Subaru I felt it was a chance worth taking since Toyota was involved); I love the gas mileage (yeah, I have an auto trans-don't judge me for that); and of course the handling is great. The power problem and the engine sound don't bother me. I'm not looking to race anybody. I love my car! It is completely stock. Maybe that's part of why after 78,000 miles, I have had no mechanical issues. Full disclosure: I have a sound which is either a bearing going or something with my tires. Outcome to be determined.
Just recently bought an MX5 NC, and I echo your words exactly. It's all about being fully immersed in the driving experience, to feel at one with your machine and clear your head of life's problems. I will never let that car go. Have fun.
They may work fine on computers, but identical, multi-function buttons on newer cars, make you have to keep on looking down when you are driving. Old cars used to have all kinds of different shaped knobs. They also had slider buttons, push buttons, etc.. You knew what the control is by the feel of it. You *never* had to look down. Go to an antique car gatherings and observe them.
You havent considered a remap?
I drove my nephews 86 for 20 minutes and fell in love with driving again. I bought my own MY14 GTS (Australia) in November 2018 and it's the best thing I have ever done for myself. It puts a smile on my face just looking at it. I have added decent tyres, TRD springs and sways, added Whiteline bushings to the gearbox, diff and rear subframe and I feel like this car is now where it should have been from the factory.
The interior is cheap and the sound system is crap but I understand why - keeps the price down, keeps weight down and more importantly the twins were built to modify, you can change pretty much change everything and anything you like with this car as the aftermarket parts availability is just incredible.
I love that I can wring the neck out of this car and it won't try to kill me. It is making me a better driver because of it.
I'm glad you guys went back for a final look. Yes it is flawed, but what isn't? It's a great car and I think in time it will become a classic.
I wish Honda would make the S2000 again. Not even an update; just start selling the AP2 again and destroy the segment.
Except if they made another s2k it would not be competing in this segment, it would be (like the original) competing in the Porsche Boxster segment.
Honda is stupid... they know they would sell those like hot pockets. The thing is now there are more emissions. That engine would be smaller like the new si's eith a turbo making roughly the same power.
Miata performance with a Boxster pricetag, shut up and take my money!
FACTS NO R AND D NEEDED JUST BUILD IT AGAIN WITH A RECLINABLE HARDTOP
The truth is, they can’t. It will not pass the emission regulation.
This is the first time I watched this channel, and I was truly surprised by your honesty about the car. This is very rare to find in a car reviewer, and I thank you for giving us the true, full picture about this car!
I guess I drive a FEEDER CAR. I didn’t know it till now. Being my first ever performance anything, I decided at 64 I wanted to go out on a limb and buy something ludicrous for once.
I tested Miatas for years actually, I was awaiting 2019 new Club to hit dealerships before making the leap.
Only real concern at the time was HEAT stroke. I live in the desert, Club model’s sun-baked rag top literally felt like my bald head was being baked it was so hot. Miatas A/C was meek unable to cool the interior. Hard top model I could not fit at all. Interior room. Horrid. I never realized how bad passenger side was until my wife had us switch on a test drive. Now, keep in mind I went in believing this was THE ONE for me. Despite the negative stated above. Long story short.
Wife called me had me come ASAP to her Toyota dealership wanting me to see an 86. It was over 103 that day. Sitting in the parking lot. When I turned the A/C on within minutes-I began too rethink my decision. MORE roominess, WAY more comfy passenger space. Trunk fold down rear seat offered excellent stuff space. Car was the Base. TRD wheels/tires that was it. within 1/4 of the test drive I wanted it. I was way more comfortable in the 86 versus the Miata. Although, if I were well-off, I’d have a Miata for sure. I just wouldn’t drive it on really hot days is all.
I bought my car knowing I would do nothing to alter it. I go frolic in the twisties staying in my lane. I have no aspirations to going fast just going cornering knowing my lil car can thrill me doing 55 in a 20 mph corner without worry I’ll go over the edge landing fifty feet below, the creek bed. My 86 Base is an E-ticket ride too my inner self. Better than going to DisneyLand. My car also saves me from myself. My overdoing it when I fail to see a motorcycle cop hidden looking to pop somebody an suddenly I look at my speed and began laughing. Miata is also that way.
Both cars share a simple desire; “Being The Poor Man’s performance car” on a budget.
And, thats my story.
@@garbinator09 I enjoyed reading your comment, ignore the a**
I bought my 2019 brz performance pack 8 months ago and first thing I did was get rid of the torque dip with headers, the OFT tune, and sometimes E-85 in the summer and everyday i look forward to driving. I never had a car that made driving the highlight of my day. But I am a car enthusiasts I think very few people understand this type of platform.
ClarkFitness As an MX-5 owner who also drove several BRZs, I agree. Both cars are a dying breed.
You did the right thing! Headers, a tune, and tires are the best things you can do to these cars. With that they are such a joy to drive. It is sad cars like it and the miata are the only real lightweight affordable sports cars out there.
I did the header and tune already a couple years ago. Thinking about doing flex fuel next. How much of a difference was it for you? Would you do it again?
@RJ mi you clearly dont understand the joy of tuning then
@RJ mi I got my header and tune used for 600 bucks. I bought the car fully loaded with 5,200 miles for a hair over 20k. Everything else at the price point has a different compromise. Reliability, maintenance costs, tech/age, handling, usability, etc. Every car comes with something. A couple bolt on power adders is the easiest, and probably cheapest, thing to "fix".
As much as I agree with almost everything said about the motor, everyone is forgetting one thing. The boxer motors that Subaru make are known for allowing the car to have a lower center of gravity as they sit so low in the engine bay. I know it doesn't sound like a huge deal, but this really does have an effect on the handling of the car.
It would mean a lot more if 58 percent of the weight wasn't still hanging over the front wheels.. they killed the inline awd, possible the biggest reason to use a flat four, to push the engine behind the front axle and look how much weight is still up front. It will never feel as nimble or light or tossable as a Miata without addressing this.
@@CSLFiero if they can somehow make a steering shaft that can "snake around" the super wide engine and be able to mount the steering rack in front of the engine push the engine backwards.
I love these cars. I bought mine as soon as I found one (FRS) available locally in 2013. I embraced the “race car” and enjoy the loud nature of the car. I also kind of like the 1990’s nature of the early cars, disconnect that ABS fuse and it is 1980’s sports car, 100%. I cannot bring myself to part with mine, I just don’t know what I would replace it with, short of just buying another one. Mine has 87k + miles on it and it is super raw. I replaced the blown OEM shocks with Tein coil overs, when the clutch throw out bearing failed (the only failure I have had) I replaced it with a new bearing, clutch and lighter flywheel (65k miles). I replaced the rotors with higher quality vented and I’m running EBC reds in the rear, yellows in the front. All the fluids are Motul. Oh...and I have been through 9 sets of tires during my ownership thus far, yep...9! I have tried a different type of tire every time and found it’s important to not over tire the car. I deleted the entire 20lbs of muffler with a Nameless Delete - simple, light and it sounds terrific. I love this car, there just is not another car available giving the same driving experience. You can flog it to death every time you get into it, which is my sole purpose for a sports car. I absolutely love mine. I will keep it until the motor blows up, rebuild it and keep driving. It has plenty of power for the street, you just have to stay on top of it, you have to be in the right gear, you have to maintain momentum. It is fabulous.
No pedal dance! Just take the good ol fuse out
Daily drove an FRS for 5 years (leased), its been nearly 3 years since I gave it back and I miss it every. single. day.
I wanna keep you 86gt let me have a turn with you
Gosh 7 years fly by. I am kind of glad that these soldiered on. I see a lot of young fellows in them as a first reliable foray into spirited motoring. Yeah they got panned for being down on power. I panned it too. My opinions have softened with time though (Now a Miata owner. So who am I to talk)
Ultimately, Its a good car and I recommend it where I can.
It's one of the best "first Cars", man.
At least Miata owners aren't required to visit a shop to get a working torque curve.
Svn open flash tablets bro you can get rid of the torque dip at home
It's a great car to learn proper driving technique that can still be somewhat practical as a daily. I owned one for 4 years & it's what got me loving small, light. RWD cars. Moved on to a S2K but will always have a soft spot for the 86.
@Johnny Nimble I dismissed the MX-5 for 30 years, but in 2019 I inherited a 1999 NB with LSD. Five minutes later I was a convert.
Dr. Savage, the consistent incremental improvement to your production quality is remarkable. You’ve raised the bar on this platform.
As a long-term 86 owner, if you are considering getting one, make it happen!
Love this car, don't care if it's considered "slow". It's good another generation is scheduled to arrive soon.
@@darekm6859 because maybe you dont want to go to redline in every gear to just get to highway speed
That’s how I feel about my S2000 redlining to get up to speed while modern cars out pace me merging on the highway. Different times now where a golf with a dsg will out run a s2k.
Alex Strömberg you don’t enjoy pushing sports cars to their limits as often as possible? Sports cars might not be for you. What you’re asking for is a Grand Tourer, or GT car. These represent the vast majority of what most people call “sports cars,” so there are plenty to choose from. Please, stop asking a rare breed to become another GT car. Pizza’s great, but I don’t expect every meal to feature it.
It's not slow. Well into the early 2000s, we still had cars making under 100 HP, and double-digit 0-60 times. Meanwhile, speed limits have NOT changed. We're just blessed with a plethora of fast options now.
Andres Ramos yeah it’s just the powerband of NA cars. The E60 M5 and the E92 M3 are like that too. All the power is in the upper end. Some people just don’t get that.
2:02 Tokyo Drift soundtrack. 😂
splewy Easter egg haha
plays atleast once a day when I take my FRS out for a spirited drive
Oh! It also has an 8-Track player??
I've loved this car ever since they introduced it in 2012. I bought a 2015 BRZ Limited and found that it's joys are balanced by it's shortcomings. But it's shortcomings can be fixed: the aftermarket has a multitude of solutions for whatever you perceive this car's problems to be. I won't say that this is the first car I have ever modified, but I've done more to this car than all the cars I have owned over the past 40 years. Torque dip? Solved with a catted header and an Open Flash tune. Blind spots? Convex door mirrors and an aftermarket backup camera. Lame sounding engine? Install a Cat-back. It slides too easily? Get Pilots for Summer and a good set of Winter tires (Thank you, TireRack). Sound System is atrocious? Oh, there are a number of solutions to that problem, but I took the simple route of replacing all the cheap OEM speakers with carefully selected Polk Audio and Infinity Reference speakers. BTW: Neodymium speaker magnets weigh nothing compared to the ferrite speaker magnets they replaced! Replacing the speakers can be a weight reduction! It isn't quite "audiophile" but I can at least recognize the music I'm listening to. Too much noise? Add sound deadening. I know I've done more, but this car is a pure joy to drive and I know it's mine.
Would you know if sound deadening material adds weight to the car?
Eugene Tan yes it does, you’re adding to the car what wasn’t originally there. It’s not too much weight though .
Mr.Singapore I’m proud to say, that your quality of presentation is FINALLY on par with Mr.Goose. I applaud you fine sir, keep up the good work.
Definitely agree, he killed it in this video.
@@stmaier3288 You can tell he's just much more enthusiastic about this car than most cars they review. That's one thing I really respect about this channel; you can tell if a car's good in the first few minutes by the way that they act - they won't be fake happy about a trash CVT crossover because they're true car people
I agree with you on this note.
You are absolutely missing out on 50% of what makes this vehicle amazing if you are driving it in Automatic. This is coming from someone who purchased a $30k+ 6-Speed Manual and learned how to drive standard inside it day by day. Please, do not speak on the car if you drive it in Auto... you have successfully robbed it of its true character. I own a 2019 TRD Edition GT-86. By far the best car I’ve ever driven/owned. The way that car handles is a dream, it’s just absolutely glued to the road. It shifts seamlessly and picks up fairly quickly despite what many say. It’s a beautiful car and it sounds beautiful too. The steering, the chassis, the weight, the way it drives and the way it drifts is amazing. I love this car to death and I’ll never sell it. It’s getting supercharged by edelbrock fairly soon but for what it is, it’s extremely fun at high RPM’s and if you’re any good at driving a 6MT, then you’ll whip this thing around with a smile on your face every second. Driving is something I look forward to everyday because of my 86. Get one (in standard) & enjoy!
Savage! Congrats on the 350K!!! No one does it better than you, brother.
351
@@FnVir 500 by end of year.
@RICKY I had never heard of this channel so I checked it out. I 'sampled' the review of the Golf R. It was pretty painful just getting past the first couple of minutes. After that, I found very little information about the car. It's mostly just satire and crude humor. I would equate it to a car reviewer version of Angry Video Game Nerd. This channel is definitely an acquired taste, which I don't see myself acquiring.
No thanks, Mr. Regular; I'll take Mr. Goose.
Best part of this review is learning that Mark and Jack initially met through a FRS/BRZ forum.
The original FR-S video(s) are what brought me to this channel. The channel has evolved so much since then. Feels good to come back to another 86 car review after all this time. Like a highschool reunion, but with slightly less rod knock.
I've had 2014 BRZ since new, still feels special and fun after all these years.... the feelz over the feel this car can give, so nice and tactile.
Any mods you put on?
@@WhirlingMusic Just a short-shift kit, which was a great mod to give an even sportier, tighter feel to it all. I've resisted spending money on anything major all these years, but after having zero problems with it and pretty low, 50kish mileage, I would love to finally add more power to this thing, and would go great with some grippy summer tires.
I know supercharger kits for it have always been super popular, hmm...
I own a 2017 automatic Toyota 86 . My car still puts tons of smiles on my face. JUST GET RID OF THE MICHELIN PRIMUS stock tires and put on the Pilot Sport4 Michelin tires and you'll thank me for it. This car is a blast and every single horse power is usualble . And the cars gets many many second looks from passersby ..... this car is one sexy biotch !
I drove those stock Prius tires to the ground by doing donuts and drifting, it was a ton of fun with those tires. So before you get rid of them..."get rid of them" the fun way ;)
For track use I put on Firehawk Indy 500s, super affordable and grippy enough for the track.
@@zerotoux yea after I switched to pss in 16 there was way more grip, I actually liked the easy slide ability of the originals honestly
I love your cinematography savage!
I daily drove an na Miata for years, the only thing wrong with it, is the lack of space. This would be the perfect car except the Subaru engine that turns me off from it. Wish it was an Inline 4
Grantapalooza
The whole point of boxer block was for even lower centre of gravity so the ability to keep understeer in full control...
@major wow I have nothing against them, I think they're unique and cool, I just like the mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance of an inline. But only because I'm use to that
Grantapalooza wait car maintenance online? How
major wow
Porsche think so too...!!! (So did Ferrari)
The engine is awful, it just is. I've had one for 3 years. It's supercharged and everything. It STILL feels terrible.
Seriously... seven years to "figure out" a car... regardless of a joint venture problem or just plain laziness, relying on customers for feedback on the kinks that should have been smoothed out before release is plain and simple a punch in the gut.
The same goes for the engine : having to wait for two years, then another two to get engine "improvements", which were not so much an improvement as they were "needed critical fixes", is mind-boggling to me.
Anyway, I strongly agree on one point : in today's market, getting a "true" driver's car with analog inputs and genuine road feel, is priceless. Yeah ! One point for Toyoru...
Happy FRS owner here going on 8 years (got my 13 in 2012). Besides the recall have had few issues. Still really love the car and haven’t found anything I’d rather own. Of course, I do also own a sedan for carting around people and winter wonderland driving here in Michigan. Very much looking forward to seeing what Toyota has planned for a second generation.
Anyone still hating on this platform after 7 years, has never driven it and/or is not a real driver/car enthusiast. This chassis is unanimously more respected and feels better than most 35k cars like the sti, rs, miata, veloster, type r, and gti.
As for its spirit, it is the successor of the jdm corolla 85/86 trueno or levin style, which the most powerful trim, the GT-S with the famous 4AGE, had 112hp at the crank, a weight of 2400lbs and no power steering. In that regard, it is an outrageous successor and we are lucky to begin with that Toyota spent millions in R&D to revive a platform that died for 26years. Toyota doesnt manufacture great low displacement engines anymore so they took the right business decision and partner up with Subaru making some of the torquiest engine for displacement. Now 400lbs heavier with nearly double the power, handling of this chassis is in the top of all time greats, chassis and wheel feedback is really really great, both the automatic and 6speed manual are respectively sharp/quick and precise/notchy, steering isnt porsche but its in the top of the entire consumer car market and if you cant understand or feel any of this, well, bang for the buck it is also unbeatable. The car talks to you it lets you know where it is on the road, the amount of grip you have, its predictable and manageable. Its a great sports car, its so good that its vastly used at the Pro level in many motorsport disciplines. Just drive one!
True story: as an owner of a 2013 FRS this is how I was introduced to SavageGeese as his were some of the first owner vids on RUclips.
So happy you guys found friendship through automotive passion. This is what motoring is all about.
This car is definitely going to appreciate in value 10 years from now. Were it not for the Miata, this would be the end of an era for "pure" RWD sports cars.
Nah this car the 86 is the most hated car in the car community and Toyota will most likely never make another 86 again
stanley oleyte huh most hated in the car community? Please elaborate
Lol there are way to many out there. And the engine isnt really that special
Yeah, I doubt it. There are so many better cars out there. This thing is a rattle trap that never got a decent engine. Used ones are cheap as hell for a reason.
I doubt it will ever appreciate but I can see it holding its value many years from now when they become hard to find. Like a nissan 240sx. As it is right now it's a more than a bit overpriced brand new, you get a more accurate value on the used market
I went with a Miata rf because it offers the style of a coupe with the optional open air driving of a convertible, but the BRZ/86 was definitely on my short list.
Dude the intro song you came up with slaps hard af. I had to restart with my headphones on.
Listen to “when ever you call” by kolidescopes. YOU WILL LOVE IT
I want the music name in the intro
I love the way this car looks and feels when you drive, you're not the fastest and it's not about that, it just feels like you're driving a sleek/ agile car.
A lot of people dislike this car, I like it.. I own one I go everywhere with it. Never stops being fun
It's North Face vs Patagonia in the battle of the fleece tops.
That bromance story is way too cute.
Daddy Robert 💝
Straight to the point. Very honest and not dragged out. AND talked about all the specs in detail. I appreciate this very much.
As far as the sound is concerned, plugging the sound tube outlet in the passenger floor (the 12v outlet cover from the glovebox fits the hole perfectly) and installing a Corsa Performance exhaust honestly makes this one of the best sounding 4cyl cars ever. Doesn't compare to my 981 Cayman of course but what does.
This is one of the rare TRUE 4K car channels on RUclips. Great cinematography 🍻👍🏾
It's the perfect car representation of the 2010 decade, 80's nostalgia all around to people who haven't lived through the 80's.
The engine sounds like shit, but it's refreshing to have an actual engine sound that wasn't engineered to have unneeded artificial pops and bangs or no sound at all. "Ah the good old days".
I built one on Toyotas website, with no luxury options and it was MSRP a little $31,000. I immediately got excited that I could order this car the way I want it. The temptation is so hard...
After driving and reviewing the 30th anniversary Miata which has the recaros and brembos, I have to say, the miata is the more fun car to drive everyday. Of course, that is subjective, and I encourage anyone reading this to go out and drive both, then make their own decision.
MaxSpeed I want the motor of the Miata but the utility and practicality of the 86.
@@iheartgs400 that would be an interesting combo. I firmly believe Toyota could have given the engine a decent 2.0 or even a bigger 2.4 hell why not. lean it over so it keeps the short roof line and maybe jazz it up with ITB"s for the sport models. the new miata revision is bad ass. now as for driving everyday. the miata is "better" but you compromise usability, and thats what seperates the two cars., they are NOT in the same class as far as functionality. as a guy who's owned both. the miata is a "two car garage" car and the 86 is a single car garage car.
Both of them are 2 small for me.
@@ZackNakazora1 good take. Good to hear from someone who owns both as well. Think it just depends on whether or not you have a big family with kids, or if you need back seats for extra storage.
yeah, if only the 86 had the miata engine
Hey Mark you are truly a pioneer in independent automotive reviews. Your style and quality are top notch. I really feel like I spent a couple days with the vehicle myself at the end of each of your reviews. Keep up the great work.
I thought this was a bidet review channel
oh it still is...this is the car you flush down the bidet
@Nissan370Z And you think a Nissan 370 isn't?
@Nissan370Z Except that all Nissans are tired, outdated, rust buckets that are unsafe
Coastaku not disagreeing that the 370 is ugly af, but I own an Infiniti that spent 90% of its life in Rhode Island, and it has little to no rust. And it’s last two years in my ownership was still spent in the rust belt.
@@urface12343 I don't think you know what Rust belt means........
It's a great daily! I was able to make it home with winter tires on a 30km drive home in 25cm unplowed snowstorm. Never got stuck once and made it up hill that some cars with winter tires got stuck on. Love this car. Thanks for the send off video for the BRZ/FRS
For 500k subs you should do a "special" video with Turbowski.
Forget Taboskeet.
I ordered my 86GT Last year. Same color as this one. I love my car! No complaints here, I also did have a 2014 Scion FR-S. I could tell right away the changes they had made. Toyota/Subaru did a good job. I would say who ever is considering this car, if you haven’t yet. Drive it and see for yourself. The 86/BRZ isn’t for everyone. I’ve been told by my family/friends that have gone for a ride in my car. Say they love it.
I miss Scott Turbowski
Finaly after a very long time got to test drive a low mile 2019 TRD and pulled the trigger will be picking it up tomorrow from the dealership. The 15 min test drive was more than enough to convince me that it will be the fun car I have been looking for a few years at this point! Thanks for all of your videos they made a faint impact in me getting interested and finally pulling the trigger on one of these. Keep up the honest and detailed content coming!
Would love to see something like the Supra 2.0 engine with a manual in a lighter weight chassis like the 86.
Toyota apparently is forbidden from following good ideas like that
Too bad the car community hate this car and it will never be made again
I love this car but with all the backlash people write about this car, why would Toyota make another one ever again
Doesn't have to be the 2.0. They have other in-house options such as the GR Yaris 1.6.
what's seeming most likely based on supposed leaks is that it'll get the 2.4L turbo flat-4 from the Ascent (and now the Outback and Legacy XT). Toyota might insist on having both port/direct injection as they did on the FA20, where the Subaru version is just straight-up DI. That engine makes 260HP and 277 lb-ft of torque in the Ascent.
(www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/future-cars/a19682494/theres-a-next-gen-toyota-86-and-subaru-brz-coming-and-it-might-have-more-power/)
1 of if not the best reviewers with knowledge and humor and to the point
just flash tuned my 2012 gts 86 yesterday, torque dip fix should be minor but definitely feels much nicer.
You didn't get any valve spring issue like 2013 year models?
@@saulespino2510 I am under the valve spring recall, haven't done it yet.
thank you for the video bookmarking! most underrated car channel imo. quality information paralleling 1 million sub channels.
That 0-60 made my low compression RX-8 look fast. Genuinely love the GT86 though. I wish it had a a little bit more displacement to help move it along in the mid range.
It was 9 seconds. 9! Yikes.
Father of 2 here, love mine :) To be fair we also have a Mazda 3 hatch but kids love to go for rides. Proud 2017 BRZ Pure Red owner.
Did they powder coat that intake with crushed FLAMIN' HOT® DORITOS® LOCOS TACOS?
@@RAYSGT Ahoy there matey! You're right...it sails right by Toyotas all the time!
@@michaelmarks5012 did you know Toyotas actually make boats in Japan?
@@RAYSGT at least it ain't a V6 boat lol
@@michaelmarks5012 no Toyota nowadays is made for speed tho minus the BMW Supra, Lexus would be a better competitor but not in the same price range
Subie paint
Hey Dezoris,
Hell of a review - and I bet it causes the same emotions in you as it does me. I remember your salty review of the FR-S right when I had bought mine and I'm delighted that your journey has taken you to this point of creating quality content that we don't deserve. Thanks for all your hard work and effort over the years.
I've owned three of these chassis - a 2015 FRS, traded into a 2017 BRZ Inazuma (first time Sachs and Brembos offered in Canada) which got T-boned, and now a used 2014 FRS. I've loved them all, and that's why I keep buying them.
It's nice to finally see some reviewers point out how superior the Sachs dampers and final suspension tuning is on these cars. "Reminds me of the Ohlins Road and Track set up on the 2013... Smooth over every pavement type... It's completely neutral" That's why I actually did that (VERY expensive) trade up to the Inazuma. The suspension was night and day. I encourage anyone to drive the Sachs damper cars over a rough backroad and not come away totally impressed. My current 2014 FRS, I have to slow down on bumpy roads cause the car will be bounce around, and the rear could come loose, but the 2017 Sachs-equipped car would just never require you to slow down. It was amazing.
I must say, Jack really nailed the solo beginning parts of this review really well. The script felt very cohesive and he seemed engaged and brought us, the audience in with him. I'm glad to see (or notice, rather) the improvement. I do have one criticism however, I don't know if it's his speaking style or the way the audio was handled but Jack's voice sounds kind of quiet and muddy prior to the Shoppe segment.
I know I shouldn't be criticizing anyone with the way my sentence structure is, but it feels great to see effort paying off and I wanted to add my 2¢.
The soundtrack to this video is nice. Random, I know. Just thought I’d let you know.
Taj & Cars thanks for the feedback
😆 that sound tube. I plugged that real quick. Fortunately it's one plug in the passenger fire wall that takes 30 seconds by grabbing it from the 12V in the glovebox.
this car is going to be an instant classic for a fun to use car! like how the miata became! I may not like this car for its practicality, but this car is legit fun to drive!
I have a 2019 BRZ with performance package and I love it. But I am in the mountains on the east coast with super windy roads... Exactly what this car was made for. You all would like this car so much more here than on those flat, long roads in the mid west. That fact it can get 30 MPG too... and carry groceries? I love mine. And it wasn't that expensive. For me, it's pretty much the perfect driver's car.
next iteration is something i am looking forward to. other than the engine, the car is unbelievably great. drove one, and the connection you feel to the road is translucent. would be one of the true greats, unless it was for a rough and even cheap feeling engine.
the new one will apparently only get 215 hp but fixed the torque dip
I bought a 2020 BRZ tS - best, most perfect car for me, reunites and balances everything i ever dreamed of in a car, including simplicity and even a trunk. handles extremely well on my backcountry curves. I actually really like the unique engine sound that some criticize.
WAIT A SECOND. @ 1:51 DID THEY ACTUALLY CREATE GRAPHS THAT SHOW THE TORQUE DIP
ON. YOUR. DASH. it’s a feature not a bug?
It's a real feature from 2017 and up.
At least they acknowledged the issue instead of having it show some bullshit torque curve.
Yup they want you to be proud of your torque dip, whats funny to me is that you dont know how much torque you actually have cuz there arent numbers written on the graph so for what you know you might be using 100000000000 Nm of torque 😂
It’s a torque bump. Not a dip. If revved before and after the dip, you have a dual purpose powerband. But everyone loves seeing the glass as half empty instead of half full. It was what the AP2 ended up doing eventually too. Added displacement for more low end torque.
@@ivanzavala307 And that "bump" utterly sucks. Look at it, the torque plummets for what, 500 revs? Makes it so you can drive either like my late grandmother or go full ass. What a feature, I love my car to be bipolar. I think they should electronically simulate massive turbo lag as well.
Excellent video. It's refreshing to see a heartfelt and time-hardened summary and comparison of the 86, when everyone else seems to be focusing on new models simply because they're out next month. It felt like a love letter but at the same time, a break-up note.
Is Mark getting tired of being the face of the show? You've already deprived us of Turbowski, don't get rid of Mark!!!
TOTALLY AGREE!! Most of us watch these reviews for Marks unique approach and sense of humor. Jack is a cool dude, but when I see the intro starting with him it’s a huge “WOMP WOMP” .
@@davidxavier1396 yes, MARK = SAVAGEGEESE. The cynical humor in him is so good, that's what makes him the star. Jack gives great commentary and is very professional, and def adds to the content and reviews.
truly underrated channel! LOVE YOUR CHANNEL! no one else goes underneath the car and talks about stuff like this!
I work at a Toyota dealer and wherever a customers comes for service with his or her 86 I eye it so bad to drive it and park it. It’s not fast, techy, and etc. But it’s fun for enthusiasts who love to drive and feel the car
They may be slow, they may have prius tires but I can't help but feel that they had some inherent cool factor that so many cars lack nowadays.
"right car, wrong engine" EXACTLY! 2GR pretty please
yes succ dry oil, the d4s was made to be a better in reliability not power engine than subaru's own ej20/25 etc this car was made for enjoyment over all else not to be the next budget porsche
I’ve had my supercharged FRS for 3 years now, 99k miles, about 5-10 hours of track time. I’ve had a love/hate relationship with this thing. Super fun to drive both on back roads and track, pain in the ass to work on. Spark plugs, timing cover leaks, direct injector seals, you name it. Sometimes I want to drive it off a cliff with me in it
I like how it looks on this latest update with the body design and those wheels it looks good.
Also it’s needs a Toyota motor.
I appreciate how objective you guys were. I traded in my 2014 FRS with 6k miles because I wasn't driving it and eventually bought a 2008 Miata. The Miata had over 100k, but felt like a better sports car. There is less lag, it is more fun at low speeds, I like the top down option, and because it was a smaller investment, it could be a part time car vs full time. The FRS is fun, I wouldn't recommend for a main car. I also had a 1986 Corvette, they were comparable in acceleration, the FRS was better in handling, but if you were cruising and suddenly wanted to be going faster, the corvette was way better. FYI, I did regularly get over 30 mpg with the FRS, and I felt like the power was good, unless you were cruising and hit the gas. *I just remembered, I decided to trade in the FRS after driving it in a snow storm, I couldn't keep it on the road. It was literally worse than a 1968 Mustang I had. It sounds like maybe this was addressed in the update.
Geese can we get a review on the latest bathtub on the market. I would like to know how the water flows down the drain.
You two have such great chemistry.com - Keep doing what you do. Savage.
After owning my frs for over a year and getting the chance to drive a couple of nd miatas, I'm so excited to see someone finally understand how this car feels more fun on the street than the nd. Taking the convertible out of the equation, I found the nd to be almost a hair too refined to have fun; the transmission is smoother but less mechanical feeling, the steering is sharp but feels less connected, the engine (in the nd1 at least) has a broad torque curve but ultimately just seems like any other na 4 cylinder out of an economy car. Tack that on to hardly fitting in the car (I'm 6'2") and I just couldn't see what the fuss was about. Yes they are faster in an autocross, and on certain tracks. But faster doesn't mean more fun, and since 98% of my driving is on the street, I'll take my frs. Mazda set out to build a great platform. Toyota and Subaru set out to build a great car. Both are still good at what the other one does, just depends on what you want.
Detailed, quality review. So much of the discussion about this car is about the engine's lack of oomph and sparkle, which is a pity as that often tends to drown out discussion about its beguiling qualities. The guys covered it well; driving position, low centre of gravity, pedal box, control weights, chassis balance; this spec car is really a driving enthusiast's delight. Absolutely delighted with my 2017 BRZ PPL. The only modern cars I've driven that provide the same sense of connection and interaction are MX5s and 911s.
Alright guys if you keep this intro music up your gonna have to start a soundcloud!
Name please
I'm coming from a 1990 Miata, so I'm used to rattles, bad highway gearing, no driver aids, no safety, no power, bad sound system, and an overall loud driving experience. So honestly I am having a hard time picturing what driving a new car would feel like. The BRZ/FRS definitely looks good and a lot more comfortable and faster than what I'm used to. I would definitely like to try driving one someday.
3:28 aaaawww this car is how you met
Here's something I think people forget: this vehicle is obviously playing homage to the original 86, the Corolla Sprinter Trueno. It was a realtively slow front engine, 2 door, naturally aspirated inline 4, 50/50 split weight, rear wheel drive coupe.
This new one is literally all that, except it axes it's corolla roots with various upgrades like stiffness and horsepower. I think people often forget the formula of this car.
But it's been 25+ years. A tuned black top for one of those AE86's has as much power and it's 200kg lighter. They dropped the ball, it's the future, welcome Toyota.
Why do you two sound exactly the same?!
@Just think 🤣
Ones literally Asian
Savagegeese used his 3d printer to make a replica of himself but changed his facial features to get some of that Asian RUclips market.
We are clones spawned in test tubes located underneath a LJS.
Yup first mod on my MY15 BRZ was to tare out the entire audio system and tossed it in the trash, where it belongs. Replaced it with a nice Pioneer head unit, small 4 channel amp under the passenger seat, new speakers all round including 5.25" units in the rear side walls (stock are 3") and a neat Pioneer twin 16cm powered sub, that only weighs a few kg, in the boot strapped to the back of the fold down seat. World of difference if you like music and managed to massage the weight distribution too.
Imagine if it had a 2ZZGE successor instead of the boxer engine? I can already hear the high lift cams!
romero1337 did you swap out the oil pan on the 2ZZGE?
Realistically I can see them putting a B48 in there for the next gen
A little late to the video, but I own a 2013 FR-S and will never let it go until the day I die. I learned to drive manual in it, I did my first track days in it, so many memories associated with a fantastic driver's car. Looking back, it kind of feels like a steal to get such a well sorted car at this price point. Here's to hoping the next gen does it justice!
2020 But it has rust on the front control arms and bolts already?
winter also using cheaper toyota bits and bobs
I truly enjoy watching these reviews, so detailed, and in depth with insightful commentary. Thank you
86: Handles costco trips like a champ
Miata: looks like the dinner table cat meme
Larry Cai 😂😂 top down on the miata with no passenger plenty of storage.
@@rolon-ew5kl "the sky is the limit"
That's the big difference. The Miata is a second car, but the 86 can be your only one.
they just announced the new 2022 BRZ and 86, with updated appearence and 30 extra horsepower, IT LIVES ON
A disposable feeder car? No. I think allot more consideration and engineering when into this car than you’re giving it credit for. It’s not a 911 Porsche but cars are only disposable if you don’t respect them and treat them that way. I know some cars with much lesser build quality that are considered treasures because of WHERE the perspective companies chose to invest as opposed to where they didn’t.
had my 2020 for 4 months now, and wow it is an amazing car. I see why people say its underpowered, but living on one of the best low key driving roads in America I get to really use the car what it was made for.... Touge.