Drag Race: Toyota Supra Mk4 vs 2.0-litre Mk 5 vs 3.0-litre Mk 5

The Mk4 Toyota Supra is a performance car icon, but how does it compare to the new Mk5 model in range-topping 3.0-litre and entry-level 2.0-litre guise? Well, that’s a question our latest drag race will answer…

Tap the video to watch the race:

The Toyota Supra Mk4 is the most famous iteration of the iconic Japanese sport scar. This stunning two-door coupe rocketed to fame in the nineties thanks, in part, to starring roles in numerous video games and movies. Since then, its cult-following has only grown thanks to the tuning efforts of numerous petrolheads who have squeezed more than 1,000hp from its legendary 2JZ engine.

But we’re keeping things simple today, with a completely stock Mk4 Supra. This example was originally imported to the UK from Japan and features a 3.0-litre straight-six engine with 320hp and 441Nm of torque.

Rather than the uber-desirable six-speed manual gearbox, this car comes with a four-speed torque-converter automatic. As a result, it’s a smidge heavier than the six-speed car, weighing 1,490kg. It’s also quite a bit less valuable – manual cars in mint condition have changed hands for double that.

And, at that price, you might find yourself considering a brand-new Supra instead. After all, a 2.0-litre Mk5 Toyota Supra can be yours for a shade under £46,000. This new entry-level car produces 258hp and 400Nm, which is less than the classic Supra on both counts. But, it’s also 95kg lighter.

Its modern eight-speed automatic gearbox should make snappier changes than the old Supra’s four-speed, and it comes with launch control. Although, being a BMW-based launch control system means it’ll probably be a little temperamental – especially in today’s slippery conditions

Completing our three-car lineup is the new 3.0-litre Mk5 Supra. This comes with the same six-cylinder engine as numerous BMW models, including the Z4 M40i and M340i. It produces 340hp and 500Nm of torque, more than any other car here, but it weighs 1,495kg. That’s 5kg more than the classic Supra and 100kg more than the 2.0-litre model.

It comes with the same eight-speed automatic gearbox as that car, with an equally finicky launch control system, but parking one on your drive will cost a hefty £53,035.

Will the most powerful modern Supra come out on top, or will the lighter 2.0-litre version cope better with the tricky conditions. Or does the Mk4 model have a few tricks up its nineties sleeve? Watch the race to find out.

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