Hey everyone! Ever wondered about the awesome sports cars that share a platform and a whole lot of DNA? Yep, we're talking about the Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S. These cars have a cult following, and for good reason! They're all about that pure driving experience: rear-wheel drive, a lightweight design, and a focus on balance. If you're into a car that's more about carving corners than straight-line speed, these are definitely worth a look. The aim of this article is to dive deep into these three almost identical cars. We'll be comparing and contrasting them, looking at what makes each one special, and exploring their shared history. So, buckle up, because we're about to take a fun ride through the world of the BRZ, 86, and FR-S!

The Genesis: A Collaboration for the Ages

Alright, let's rewind a bit and talk about how these three fantastic cars even came to be. It all started with a collaboration between Subaru and Toyota. Picture this: Subaru, known for its expertise in all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines, teams up with Toyota, a giant in the automotive world with a knack for reliable and well-engineered vehicles. The goal? To create an affordable, fun-to-drive sports car that would bring the joy back to driving. They aimed to build something that was all about the connection between the driver and the road, focusing on balance, handling, and a lightweight design. This collaboration was a match made in heaven, combining Subaru's engineering prowess with Toyota's market reach and design sensibilities. The result? The platform that would give birth to the Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S. And honestly, it was a pretty brilliant idea. These cars revitalized the affordable sports car market, giving driving enthusiasts a fresh option that was both accessible and engaging. So, kudos to Subaru and Toyota for recognizing a gap in the market and having the vision to fill it!

So, what were the main goals of this collaboration? First and foremost, they aimed to create a lightweight vehicle. The idea was to keep things simple to enhance the driving experience. The lighter the car, the more responsive it becomes, resulting in an agile feel on the road. The second key goal was perfect weight distribution. The engineers worked tirelessly to get the weight balanced as close to 50/50 as possible between the front and rear axles. This balance is critical for predictable handling and allows the car to rotate easily through corners, making it a joy to drive. They also wanted to make sure the car had a low center of gravity. This helps to reduce body roll and further enhances handling, making the car feel planted and stable. Lastly, the car had to be affordable. The whole point was to give a wide range of people access to an amazing sports car. In short, the goal was to create a car that was fun to drive, affordable, and accessible. In this regard, these models were a complete success.

Subaru BRZ: The Foundation of Fun

Let's kick things off with the Subaru BRZ. You can consider it the car that started it all, or at least one of the originals. Subaru brought its engineering expertise to the table, and the result is a car that's all about pure driving pleasure. The BRZ is often praised for its excellent handling characteristics, thanks to its low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution. It's equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, which is a Subaru signature. This engine provides a decent amount of power, but it's not really about outright speed. Instead, it's about how the car feels on the road. The BRZ is all about finesse and control. The suspension is tuned for responsive handling, making it a blast to carve corners. The steering is precise, giving the driver a great sense of what the car is doing. It's a car that encourages you to drive smoothly, feeling every nuance of the road.

The BRZ also stands out with its distinctive styling. The design is sleek and sporty, with a low-slung profile that hints at its performance capabilities. The interior is driver-focused, with a minimalist design that puts the emphasis on driving. Subaru's engineers put a lot of focus on ergonomics, ensuring that everything is within easy reach. The seats are supportive, and the driving position is perfect for spirited driving. The BRZ is all about getting the driver involved. It's a car that rewards skill and encourages you to push yourself. Whether you're a seasoned track enthusiast or a weekend driver, the BRZ will put a smile on your face. And the best part? The BRZ is relatively affordable, making it an accessible entry point into the world of sports cars. It's a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a fun, engaging, and well-balanced sports car.

Toyota 86: A Touch of Toyota Style

Next up, we have the Toyota 86, which is essentially the same car as the BRZ, but with a few tweaks to its styling and branding. The 86 carries the Toyota name and is aimed at a slightly different market. While the mechanical components are almost identical to the BRZ, the 86 has a unique design language that sets it apart. The exterior styling of the Toyota 86 is more aggressive, with distinctive front-end styling and different wheel designs. This gives the car a unique character. Toyota's designers did a fantastic job of giving the 86 its own identity while keeping the core DNA intact.

Inside, you'll find a similar layout to the BRZ, but with some Toyota-specific touches. The 86 also has a focus on a driver-centric experience, so everything is within easy reach, and the seats are designed to provide support during spirited driving. You'll get the same fantastic handling characteristics as the BRZ, including the balanced weight distribution and low center of gravity. You can expect a responsive and engaging driving experience, making it perfect for both daily driving and weekend adventures. The Toyota 86 is a great choice for those who are drawn to the Toyota brand or who simply prefer the styling of the 86 over the BRZ. It's a fantastic sports car that delivers on the promise of fun and performance. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of delivering a thrilling driving experience.

Scion FR-S: The Short-Lived Rebel

Now, let's talk about the Scion FR-S. For those of you who might not know, Scion was Toyota's youth-oriented brand that existed for a period of time. The FR-S (which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport) was the first model to launch under the Scion brand. It was the same car as the BRZ and the Toyota 86, but with its own unique styling and branding. The FR-S was aimed at a younger demographic, and it had a sporty and aggressive design. The styling was designed to appeal to a younger audience. The front end of the FR-S featured a distinctive design with a prominent grille and aggressive headlights. It's the same reliable and fun-to-drive car, but with a different personality.

The interior of the FR-S was similarly driver-focused, with a clean and minimalist design. The FR-S offered a great driving experience. The driving dynamics were exceptional, making it a joy to drive on winding roads or on the track. The engine, suspension, and steering were all tuned to deliver a responsive and engaging experience. While the Scion FR-S is no longer in production, it left a lasting legacy. It helped to introduce a new generation of drivers to the joys of sports car ownership. It’s a great choice for used car buyers looking for a fun, affordable, and reliable sports car. It's also a reminder of the unique collaboration that brought these cars to life. Even though Scion is gone, the FR-S's spirit lives on in the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ.

Comparing the Trio: What Sets Them Apart?

So, what are the real differences between the BRZ, 86, and FR-S? Well, the most significant differences are primarily cosmetic. The underlying mechanics and the driving experience are very similar across all three models. They all share the same engine, transmission options, suspension, and overall platform. This means that they all deliver the same thrilling driving experience, with great handling and a focus on balance. However, there are some differences.

Firstly, there's the styling. The BRZ has a sleek and understated design, the Toyota 86 has a more aggressive look, and the Scion FR-S had its own unique design language that targeted a younger audience. You might prefer one over the others, but it's really down to your personal taste. Next, there is the branding and trim. Each model had its own brand identity, and the trim levels and available features varied slightly. Some trims included unique features, like special wheels or interior upgrades. Finally, there's the availability. The Scion FR-S is no longer in production, so you can only find it on the used car market. The BRZ and 86 continue to be sold new, but with their own branding and design. Regardless of the small differences, the fundamental character of these cars remains the same. They all offer a fantastic driving experience, and they are all a great value for the money. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a sports car.

Performance: The Heart of the Matter

The performance of the BRZ, 86, and FR-S is what makes these cars so special. They are not about massive horsepower figures or blistering acceleration times. Instead, they are about the pure joy of driving, about the feeling of connection between the driver and the car. The 2.0-liter boxer engine, which is the same across all three models, provides enough power to make the car feel responsive and fun. The engine is naturally aspirated, which means there's no turbocharger to provide a boost of power. This setup contributes to the car's linear power delivery, making it easy to control and enjoyable to drive. The cars are lightweight, which means that the power-to-weight ratio is favorable. This enhances the car's acceleration, handling, and overall agility.

The suspension is tuned for responsive handling, allowing the car to change direction quickly and precisely. The steering is direct and communicative, giving the driver a good sense of what the car is doing. You feel connected to the road. The low center of gravity contributes to the car's stability, reducing body roll and improving handling. The perfect weight distribution, with a nearly 50/50 split between the front and rear axles, makes the car easy to balance through corners. These cars encourage you to drive smoothly, feeling every nuance of the road. It's a car that rewards skill and encourages you to push yourself. Whether you're a seasoned track enthusiast or a weekend driver, the BRZ, 86, and FR-S will put a smile on your face.

Ownership and Maintenance: Keeping Them Running

Owning and maintaining a BRZ, 86, or FR-S is generally straightforward. These cars are known for their reliability. The engines are durable, and the mechanical components are well-engineered. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, will help to keep the car running smoothly. The parts are relatively affordable and easy to source, as the cars share many components. This means that the cost of ownership is relatively low compared to other sports cars. However, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure the car's longevity.

One thing to keep in mind is the potential for modifications. These cars are popular among enthusiasts. If you are not into performance upgrades, you will have to leave them as is. Modifications can affect the car's reliability and warranty, so it's important to do your research. Before making any changes, it is wise to consult with a qualified mechanic. Also, be sure to use high-quality parts and follow professional installation guidelines. If you are looking for a fun and affordable sports car, the BRZ, 86, and FR-S are excellent choices. They are reliable, easy to maintain, and a blast to drive. With proper care and maintenance, these cars can provide years of enjoyment.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

So, which one of these fantastic cars should you choose? The BRZ, the 86, or the FR-S? The answer, as always, depends on your personal preferences. The BRZ is a great choice if you appreciate a sleek design and excellent handling. The 86 is a perfect option if you like a more aggressive style, and you are attracted to the Toyota brand. The FR-S, if you can find one, is a great buy, it offers the same driving experience with a unique aesthetic. Ultimately, all three cars offer an engaging driving experience. They share the same core values: fun, affordability, and a focus on driving pleasure.

Consider these points. Styling is the first thing to think about. Do you like the sleek look of the BRZ, the more aggressive look of the 86, or the unique design of the FR-S? Take a look at different photos and see which one grabs your attention. Next, think about the brand. Do you prefer Subaru or Toyota? Both brands have a great reputation, so the choice is largely a matter of personal preference. Consider the availability. The FR-S is no longer in production, so you'll have to find one on the used car market. The BRZ and 86 are readily available. Finally, consider your budget. While these cars are affordable, the prices may vary slightly. The prices change depending on the features and conditions. Whichever car you choose, you're in for a treat. These cars are pure driving fun!

I hope this article has helped you. Happy driving!