Toyota Supra MK4 vs MK5: A Detailed Comparison

 

Toyota Supra MK4 vs MK5: A Detailed Comparison

The Toyota Supra is an icon in the automotive world, with a rich heritage dating back to the late 1970s. Two generations stand out as fan favorites: the MK4 Supra (A80), which debuted in 1993, and the MK5 Supra (A90), which was revived in 2019. Both generations represent the pinnacle of Toyota’s engineering, but they cater to different audiences with distinct characteristics. Here's a breakdown of how the MK4 and MK5 Supra compare.

1. Design and Styling

• MK4 Supra (A80):
  The MK4 is instantly recognizable for its muscular curves, elongated body, and iconic rear wing. Its design epitomized the '90s sports car aesthetic, with a blend of aggressive lines and a smooth silhouette. The large, rounded headlights and rear spoiler became symbols of Japanese tuner culture.

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• MK5 Supra (A90):
  The MK5 brings a more modern, aerodynamic look. Designed in collaboration with BMW, it features sharper angles, a shorter wheelbase, and a more compact design compared to its predecessor. The distinctive double-bubble roof and sleek, sculpted lines give it a futuristic, aggressive appeal. While some purists miss the raw aesthetics of the MK4, the MK5's design aligns with modern sports car trends.

2. Performance

• MK4 Supra:
  The legendary 2JZ-GTE inline-six engine is the highlight of the MK4. This 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine produces 276 hp (stock) but has a huge aftermarket potential, often pushing over 1,000 hp with tuning. Paired with a robust 6-speed manual transmission, the MK4 Supra quickly became a favorite among tuners and performance enthusiasts.

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• MK5 Supra:
  The MK5 features the B58 inline-six engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged unit sourced from BMW. This engine generates 382 hp and offers impressive acceleration and handling. While the B58 doesn't have the same legendary status as the 2JZ, it’s still a formidable powertrain with plenty of tuning potential. The MK5 comes with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a manual gearbox introduced later, offering versatility depending on driving preferences.

3. Handling and Chassis

• MK4 Supra:
  The MK4 has a more analog driving experience, with a weightier feel and less electronic interference. Its handling is solid, though some consider it more suited to straight-line performance rather than tight cornering. The weight distribution and suspension setup, while impressive for its time, feel less sharp compared to modern standards.

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• MK5 Supra:
  With the MK5, Toyota focused heavily on driving dynamics. Thanks to its shorter wheelbase and modern suspension technology, the MK5 offers precise and agile handling. It’s nimble in corners and feels more refined on both tracks and streets. The adaptive suspension and active differential help the car feel balanced and controlled even under hard driving conditions.

4. Interior and Technology

• MK4 Supra:
  The interior of the MK4 is very much a product of the ‘90s, with a driver-focused cockpit, analog gauges, and minimal tech features. While it’s functional and comfortable, the MK4 lacks modern conveniences like touchscreen infotainment, advanced safety systems, and driver assistance technologies.

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• MK5 Supra:
  The MK5, being a modern sports car, comes loaded with technology. It features a BMW-sourced infotainment system, high-quality materials, and a driver-oriented layout. The car includes modern amenities like a touchscreen display, digital gauges, and advanced driver-assistance systems, making it a more comfortable and tech-savvy ride for daily driving.

5. Legacy and Cultural Impact

• MK4 Supra:
  The MK4 Supra gained massive popularity due to its role in movies, particularly the Fast & Furious franchise, and its reputation as a tuner’s dream car. The 2JZ engine became a legend due to its durability and ability to handle extreme tuning. Today, it holds a cult status and commands high prices in the used car market.

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• MK5 Supra:
  The MK5, while not yet reaching the legendary status of the MK4, is slowly building its own legacy. It brought the Supra name back into the spotlight after a nearly 20-year hiatus, appealing to both new enthusiasts and longtime fans. Although its BMW collaboration initially sparked controversy among purists, the car’s performance and design have won over many skeptics.

6. Aftermarket Support

• MK4 Supra:
  The MK4 Supra is arguably one of the most modified cars in automotive history. From engine swaps to custom body kits, the aftermarket support for the MK4 is extensive. Tuners love the car for its versatility and the ease with which it can be transformed into a high-horsepower machine.

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• MK5 Supra:
  The MK5 is still relatively new, but the aftermarket scene is growing rapidly. The B58 engine, while not as renowned as the 2JZ, is proving to be a capable platform for tuning. Performance upgrades, suspension tweaks, and custom parts are becoming more widely available, and the MK5 is quickly gaining traction in the tuning community.

7. Price and Availability

• MK4 Supra:
  Due to its legendary status and rarity, the MK4 Supra commands a premium in today’s market. Prices for well-maintained or low-mileage examples have skyrocketed, with some models fetching over $100,000. For many enthusiasts, the MK4 has become a collectible car rather than a daily driver.

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• MK5 Supra:
  The MK5, being a current-generation car, is more accessible. Prices start around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on options and trim levels. While still a premium sports car, the MK5 offers a more affordable way to own a Supra without diving into the collector’s market.

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Conclusion: MK4 vs MK5 - Which is Better?

The MK4 Supra is a nostalgic piece of automotive history, revered for its tunability and timeless design. It’s the choice for purists who value raw power, analog driving, and the legendary 2JZ-GTE engine.

The MK5 Supra, on the other hand, is a modern sports car designed for today’s driving environment. It’s faster out of the box, more refined, and loaded with technology, making it an excellent choice for those who want a balance between performance and everyday usability.

Ultimately, choosing between the MK4 and MK5 depends on what you value in a sports car. Both are incredible machines, each representing the pinnacle of performance in their respective eras.

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#ToyotaSupra #MK4Supra #MK5Supra #2JZ #B58 #JDM #SportsCars #CarComparison #AutoEnthusiast #CarCulture #TunerCar #JapanesePerformance #FastAndFurious #CarLegacy