The FT-86, of course, is the sportster that the world has half-jokingly referred to as the "Toyobaru." It was developed with Subaru and has a 2.0-liter normally aspirated Subaru flat-4 engine and a six-speed manual transmission.
Back in 2008, Toyota and Subaru announced this startling rear-wheel-drive coupe program was approved. There would be two versions, one for Toyota and one for Subaru. Subaru will build both cars in Japan and supply what will be the next-generation version of its unique and admired boxer engine. Toyota has spoken of late 2011 for a first on-sale date, at least for its version of the coupe.
While Toyota is loath to say, the expectation in Tokyo is that the "Toyobaru" will be based off a shortened Impreza platform converted to rear-wheel drive. The suspension will be front strut with rear double wishbones. The showcar's gray-themed cabin has a racy driver console and air vents.
With the demise of the MR-2, Celica and Supra, one aim is for the FT-86 to put some fun and funk back into Toyota's road-car range. Even so, some see the use of Subaru's 1,994cc engine as a strange choice, since it's not especially sporty in non-turbo trim.
But Toyota engineers really appreciate its low center of gravity, and that's the key here. One insider who has driven the car says it handles brilliantly. The stock engine also keeps the price down, with $25,000 or under the target here.
At this stage, the FT-86 is a running prototype, with sharp 2+2 styling and a 164-inch overall length. Width is 63 inches, and height is a low 50 inches.
Inside Line says: This is just a first outing for the FT-86, and much could change by the time it hits dealerships two years from now. — Peter Nunn, Correspondent
credits to Edmunds
original link here
Some more...
