1986-1992 Toyota Supra 3.0L

Overview

The third-generation Toyota Supra, produced from 1986 through 1992, marked a distinct separation from the Celica line, establishing the Supra as a standalone grand touring sports car. Built on the A70 platform, this model introduced a more sophisticated design language and a focus on performance that allowed Toyota to compete directly with established sports coupes of the era. The vehicle was engineered with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, emphasizing balance and high-speed stability.

Powering the North American market was the 3.0-liter 7M-GE inline-six engine, which provided a significant increase in output compared to its predecessors. In 1987, Toyota expanded the lineup by introducing the Turbo model, featuring the 7M-GTE engine, which utilized a CT26 turbocharger to boost performance. This generation was recognized for its technological advancements, including the optional Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension (TEMS) and anti-lock braking systems, which were considered advanced for the late 1980s.

Manufacturing took place primarily at the Tahara plant in Japan. Throughout its production cycle, the A70 Supra underwent several refinements, including minor styling updates to the front fascia and taillights, as well as interior adjustments. By the time production concluded in 1992, the Supra had solidified its reputation as a capable highway cruiser and a platform for performance tuning, setting the stage for the highly regarded fourth-generation model that followed.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Supra
Model Year	1986-1992
Generation	A70
Trim	Base, Turbo
Body Style	3-door Liftback
Vehicle Segment	Sports Car
Vehicle Class	Subcompact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota A70
Assembly Plant	Tahara, Japan
Country of Origin	Japan
Production Start	1986
Production End	1992
VIN Identifier	JT2MA
Base MSRP	$18,000 (approx. 1986)
Destination Charge	–
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Toyota M engine
Engine Name	7M-GE / 7M-GTE
Engine Code	7M
Engine Configuration	Inline-6
Displacement	3.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio	9.2:1 (NA) / 8.4:1 (Turbo)
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated / Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	5.1 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	200 hp (NA) / 230-232 hp (Turbo)
Torque	196 lb-ft (NA) / 246-254 lb-ft (Turbo)
Redline	6,500 rpm
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd / Automatic 4-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.73:1 / 4.30:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91+
EPA City MPG	16
EPA Highway MPG	21
EPA Combined MPG	18
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.5
Estimated Driving Range	350 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	6.5 – 7.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	15.0 – 15.5 seconds
Top Speed	140+ mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	–
Lateral Acceleration	0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	182.0
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	68.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	51.6
Wheelbase (in)	102.0
Front Track (in)	58.7
Rear Track (in)	58.7
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,300 – 3,500
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	13.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	36.1 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	None
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	No
Audio System	AM/FM Cassette
Speaker Count	4-6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	36 months / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	–
Corrosion Warranty	–
Roadside Assistance	–
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Tahara, Japan
Transmission Supplier	W58 / R154 / A340E
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open / Limited Slip (LSD)
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	–
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The A70 Supra is widely regarded for its robust build quality and comfortable grand touring capabilities, though prospective owners should prioritize maintenance history, particularly regarding the 7M-GE/GTE head gasket, which is a known failure point if not addressed with updated torque specifications. While the car offers a rewarding driving experience with its balanced chassis and smooth inline-six power delivery, finding clean, unmodified examples has become increasingly difficult as the model gains status among collectors. In the current market, the Turbo variants command a significant premium due to their tuning potential and historical significance, while the naturally aspirated models remain accessible options for those seeking a classic 1980s Japanese sports coupe experience. Reliability is generally high for the drivetrain if cooling systems are kept in optimal condition, making it a viable, albeit aging, choice for enthusiasts who appreciate period-correct analog performance.