History of Toyota Supra in Timeline

The Toyota Supra is a sports car and grand tourer produced by Toyota Motor Corporation starting in 1978. The name 'Supra' comes from Latin, meaning 'above' or 'to surpass'. It has gained popularity in sports and pop culture.

1977: Introduction of Toyota CAL-1

In 1977, Toyota introduced the Toyota CAL-1 at the Tokyo Motor Show, which served as the basis of the Celica XX.

1978: First Generation Supra Production

In 1978, Toyota Motor Corporation started the initial production of the first generation Toyota Supra, derived from the Toyota Celica.

1978: Introduction of Celica XX

In 1978, Toyota introduced the Celica XX, which followed a new product offering Toyota had introduced, offering personal luxury cars at their existing dealerships.

1978: Toyota Supra Introduced

In 1978, the Toyota Motor Corporation introduced the Toyota Supra, a sports car and grand tourer. The name "Supra" comes from a Latin prefix meaning "above", "to surpass" or "go beyond".

January 1979: Supra Exported Outside Japan

In January 1979, the Toyota Supra was first exported outside Japan. The federalized model was equipped with a 110 hp 2.6-litre 12-valve SOHC inline-6 engine.

1979: Cosmetic Changes to US Model

In 1979, cosmetic changes were made to the US model. The interior received a redesigned centre console and a digital quartz clock. The exterior received redesigned side view mirrors.

August 1980: Supra Receives Engine Upgrade

In August 1980, the Supra received an upgrade in displacement with the 2.8-litre 5M-E engine shared with the Crown (S110).

1980: Sports Performance Package Option

In 1980, a new Sports Performance Package became an option, which included sport suspension, raised white letter tyres, and front and rear spoilers.

1980: Cosmetic Changes to US Model

In 1980, the US model had redesigned side view mirrors and 14x5 1/2 inch aluminium wheels were standard. Body molded mudflaps became available. On the rear of the mudflaps, the word "Celica" was painted in white lettering.

February 1981: Introduction of Soarer coupe

In February 1981, Japanese buyers were offered an alternative to the Celica XX liftback bodystyle, called the Soarer coupé, which was now offered at two Japanese Toyota dealership networks called Toyota Store, and Toyopet Store, as the Celica XX was sold at the Toyota Corolla Store.

1981: Sports Performance Package Option

In 1981, a new Sports Performance Package became an option, which included sport suspension, raised white letter tyres, and front and rear spoilers. Also, this marked the last year that an 8-track tape player was offered in any Supra.

1981: Celica Supra's Engine Details

In 1981, the Celica Supra's engine was the 2.8-litre 12-valve DOHC 5M-GE. It also had a vacuum advanced distributor.

1981: Upgrade in displacement

In 1981, the Supra received an upgrade in displacement with the 2.8-litre 5M-E engine shared with the Crown (S110).

1981: Toyota Redesigned the Celica Supra

In mid-1981, Toyota completely redesigned the Celica Supra for the 1982 model year. Still based on the Celica platform, there were several key differences, most notably the design of the front end and fully retractable pop-up headlights.

August 1982: Celica XX Model Features

In August 1982, the Celica XX, sold in Japan, featured fender mirrors and came in four different models depending on the engine.

1982: Toyota Redesigned the Celica Supra

In 1982, Toyota completely redesigned the Celica Supra . Still based on the Celica platform, there were several key differences, most notably the design of the front end and fully retractable pop-up headlights.

1982: Celica Supra Available in Two Models

In 1982, the Celica Supra was available in two distinct models in the North American market: the "Performance Type" (P-type) and the "Luxury Type" (L-type), differentiated by available options, tyre size, wheel size, and body trim.

1982: Engine Introduction for Celica Supra

In 1982, the engine used in the North American market Celica Supra was the 2.8-litre 12-valve (two valves per cylinder) DOHC 5M-GE. Power output was 145 hp and 155 lb⋅ft of torque. When the car debuted, it had a drag coefficient of Cd=0.348.

1982: Celica Supra Transmission and Suspension

In 1982, the standard transmission for the Celica Supra was the W58 5-speed manual with the A43DL 4-speed automatic transmission being an option for L-types. The Celica Supra's four-wheel independent suspension was specially tuned and designed by Lotus.

1982: Engine change

In 1982, there were not many changes but there was an increase in power output to 150 hp and 159 lb⋅ft of torque from the same 5M-GE engine.

August 1983: Celica XX Performance Upgrades

In August 1983, the Celica XX featured door-mounted mirrors and the same four engine options but with performance improvements. The 5M-GEU engine's compression ratio was increased, and the M-TEU engine was upgraded with an air-to-liquid intercooler.

1983: Changes to 5-speed models

In 1983, Power output was increased on the 5-speed models to 160 hp and 163 lb⋅ft of torque. The increase was achieved by a mixture of a redesigned intake manifold with D-shaped intake runners and an increase in compression ratio to: 9.2:1.

1983: Leather Interior Option for P-Type

In 1983, a leather interior became an option for the P-type Celica Supra.

1983: Celica XX Model Features

In 1983, the Celica XX, sold in Japan, featured fender mirrors and came in four different models depending on the engine.

1983: Power Increase

In 1983, there was an increase in power output to 150 hp and 159 lb⋅ft of torque from the same 5M-GE engine. Toyota switched to a 4.10:1 rear gear ratio for the P-type and a 3.73:1 for the L-type.

1984: Changes to 5-speed models

In 1984, Power output was increased on the 5-speed models to 160 hp and 163 lb⋅ft of torque. All automatic models retained the previous years power statistics, but the rear gear ratio was changed to 4.10:1.

December 1985: A60 Supra Production Ended

In December 1985, production for the A60 Supra ended to make way for the upcoming A70 Supra.

1985: Wheel Change for L-Type

In 1985, the L-type Celica Supra had its wheels changed to a P-type styled 15x6.

1985: Supra Redesigned

In 1985, the Supra was redesigned again. Power output was marginally increased to 161 hp and torque was up to 169 lb⋅ft. All models of this year had the same amount of power.

January 1986: Introduction of A70 Supra Logo

In January 1986, with the introduction of the A70 Supra, a new logo was introduced. It was similar in size to the previous logo, with orange writing on a red background, but without the dragon design.

February 1986: Supra and Celica Split

In February 1986, the Celica and Supra became distinct models. The Celica transitioned to a front-wheel-drive layout, while the Supra retained its rear-wheel-drive configuration. The Supra's engine was upgraded to a more powerful 3.0L inline-six.

February 1986: Third Generation Supra Introduction

In February 1986, the third-generation Supra was introduced as a separate model from the Celica, featuring a 3.0-litre DOHC inline six-cylinder engine. Some models featured the Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension (TEMS) and a removable Sport-Roof panel (Targa top).

1986: Offer of the 1985 P-Type

In 1986, during the first half of the year, the 1985 P-type Supra was still offered for sale, with minor cosmetic changes as well as the addition of a now mandatory rear-mounted third brake light on the hatch. These were all labelled officially as 1986 models.

1986: Celica XX Performance Upgrades

In 1986, the Celica XX featured door-mounted mirrors and the same four engine options but with performance improvements. The 5M-GEU engine's compression ratio was increased, and the M-TEU engine was upgraded with an air-to-liquid intercooler.

1986: Supra Technology Advancements

In 1986, the third-generation Supra introduced new technology, including optional 3-channel ABS and TEMS with adjustable damper rates.

1986: Supra Becomes Separate Model

In mid-1986, the A70 Supra became a separate model from the Toyota Celica, with Toyota discontinuing the Celica prefix and naming the car Supra.

1987: Supra Turbocharged Version Introduction

In 1987, a turbocharged version of the Supra was introduced, adding to the available engine options.

1987: A70 Supra Turbo Introduction

In 1987, the A70 Supra Turbo was introduced, featuring an intercooled, turbocharged 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder engine. The Turbo model included an engine oil cooler and an integrated rear spoiler. A new beige/tan colour combination was implemented, with only 1,000 cars produced with this scheme.

1987: TOM'S Team Wins Debut

In 1987, the TOM'S team won on its debut in the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC) with the Group-A MA70 Supra.

October 1988: Turbo-A Manufacturing Period

In October 1988, the Turbo-A, Toyota's evolution model for the Group A touring car series, was manufactured for 2 months during the period of September and October 1988 and was available strictly in Japan.

1988: 1988 Model Year Changes

Changes for the 1988 model year were nominal with the exception of the discontinuation of two-toned brown exterior paint. The spoiler-mounted brake light changed from a square to a trapezoid shape. Seat pattern was changed from squares to lines, and "foil" on climate control and switch gear changed from light to dark gray.

February 1989: A80 Development Begins

In February 1989, Toyota initiated the development of the A80 Supra, with Isao Tsuzuki leading various teams focusing on design, product planning, and engineering.

1989: 1989 Model Year Updates

In 1989, modifications to the wastegate actuator, feed location, and engine management increased power output on the turbo model. The "white package" was introduced, featuring white body molding and white "saw blade" wheels. All models received rear 3-point seat belts. New tail lights, front bumper, side mirrors, turn signals, steering wheel and stereo were added.

1989: ATCC Debut and Initial Struggles

In 1989, the Group-A Supra debuted in the Australian Touring Car Championship (ATCC) but failed to finish its first race. The car faced challenges due to a lack of power and heavy weight.

1989: TOM'S Team Ends JTCC Career

In 1989, the TOM'S team abruptly ended their Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC) career with the MA70 Group-A Supra.

1989: Turbo Model Power Increase

In 1989, the turbo model of the A70 Supra received further refinement, increasing power to 173 kW (232 hp; 235 PS) and 254 lb⋅ft (344 N⋅m) of torque, primarily due to a redesigned wastegate.

1990: A80 Design Approved and Frozen

In 1990, Toyota approved the final A80 design concept from Toyota Technical Centre Aichi and froze it for production in late 1990. Hand-built test mules using A70 bodies were created in late 1990.

1990: JZA70 2.5 Twin Turbo R Model Introduction

In 1990, Toyota introduced a special version of the JZA70 with the 1JZ-GTE engine known as the 2.5 Twin Turbo R model (JZA70-R), boasting additional upgrades, including lighter sway bars, a larger intercooler and Recaro seats.

1990: 1990 Model Year Changes

In 1990, changes included larger protective laminate in front of rear wheels, redesigned steering wheel with cruise control relocated to a stalk. A driver-side airbag and airbag indicator light on dashboard were added (US only).

1990: Introduction of Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32)

In 1990, the domineering Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32) was introduced in the Australian Touring Car Championship (ATCC), further diminishing hopes for Toyota's success.

March 1991: Fitzgerald Racing Wins Bathurst 12 Hour

In March 1991, the Australian racing team Fitzgerald Racing won the first edition of the Bathurst 12 Hour with the Supra.

1991: 1991 Model Year Updates

For the 1991 model year, the wheel design was changed to 5-spoke wheels and the front "Supra" emblem was also changed to the current corporate oval Toyota symbol. Toyota began to offer a factory spoiler-style panel sunroof.

1991: Toyota's Current Oval Company Logo

In 1991, Toyota switched to its current oval company logo on the Supra.

1991: Sunroof Option Added

In 1991, a metal power sliding sunroof was added as an option for the Supra.

1991: A80 Prototypes Assembled

In 1991, the first A80 prototypes were hand-assembled, marking a significant step in the development process.

December 1992: Pre-Production of Test Models Started

In December 1992, pre-production of the test models for the fourth-generation Toyota Supra commenced, with 20 units being manufactured.

1992: Jade Mica Green Color Option Introduction

In 1992, a new and exclusive colour option was introduced for the JZA70-R model known as Jade Mica Green.

1992: 1992 Model Year Updates

In 1992, the leather shadow gray interiors received black seats and inserts. Non-turbo models lost the option of a targa top, and a new optional subwoofer was available.

April 1993: Official Mass Production Begins

In April 1993, official mass production of the fourth-generation Toyota Supra began, sharing its platform with the upscale Soarer coupe, sold as the Lexus SC in the US.

May 1993: Fourth Generation Supra Introduced

In May 1993, the fourth-generation Toyota Supra was introduced in Japan, offered in three trim levels: the high-end GZ, the mid-range RZ, and the naturally aspirated base-model SZ.

1993: End of Group A Racing

In 1993, Group A racing came to its final demise, marking the end of the Supra's participation in this racing category.

1993: A80 Engine Details and Launch

In 1993, the A80 Toyota Supra was launched with two new engines: a naturally aspirated Toyota 2JZ-GE and a twin-turbocharged Toyota 2JZ-GTE. It was also the first Toyota-badged vehicle to include a passenger-side airbag as standard (US-market only).

August 1994: Japanese Turbo Models Improved

In August 1994, the Japanese turbo models of the Toyota Supra were updated with optional 17-inch wheels and larger brakes from export markets. A new trim level called SZ-R was added.

1994: TRD 3000GT Displayed

In 1994, Toyota Racing Development (TRD) displayed a replica of the 1994 JGTC BLITZ Racing Team Toyota Supra GT500 race car, known as the TRD 3000GT, featuring body kit modifications for improved aerodynamics.

1994: Impressive Skidpad Ratings

In 1994, the standard A80 Toyota Supra chassis achieved remarkable skidpad ratings of 0.95 lateral g's (200 ft) and 0.98 lateral g's (300 ft).

May 1995: RZ Transmission Update and More

In May 1995, the Toyota Supra RZ became available only with a six-speed manual transmission, the Aero Top was discontinued for the GZ, the rear spoiler became standard for RZ and SZ-R models, and the RZ-S trim was introduced.

1996: Turbo Model Limited to Automatic Transmission in US

For the 1996 model year in the US, the turbo model of the Toyota Supra was only available with an automatic transmission due to OBD-II certification requirements. The Aero Top targa roof was also made standard on all turbo models.

1996: Manual Transmission Returns to US Turbo Model

In 1996, for the 1997 model year, manual transmission returned for the turbo engine in the US Toyota Supra.

1996: Supra Withdrawn from Canadian Market

In 1996, the Toyota Supra was withdrawn from the Canadian market due to declining sales of sport coupes and a stronger yen pushing prices up.

1996: Supra Discontinued in Europe

The Toyota Supra was discontinued in Europe at the beginning of 1996.

September 1997: End of Supra Sales in Canada

In September 1997, sales of the Toyota Supra ceased in Canada before the start of the 1998 model year.

1997: Best Braking Performance

In 1997, the Toyota Supra Turbo recorded a 70 mph-0 braking distance of 149 ft (45 m), achieving the best braking performance of any production car tested by Car and Driver magazine at the time.

1997: 15th Anniversary Edition and Redesign

In 1997, the Toyota Supra saw a redesign of its taillights, headlights, and front fascia, and each had a badge indicating "Limited Edition 15th Anniversary". Manual transmission also returned for the turbo engine in the US.

1997: Updates for 1998 Model Year

In 1997, updates to the Toyota Supra for the 1998 model year included a 3-spoke steering wheel and a redesigned radio.

1998: Engine and Transmission Updates

For the 1998 model year, the naturally aspirated engine was eliminated in the US Toyota Supra. In Japan, both engines were installed with VVT-i, and the RZ adopted the V161 six-speed manual transmission.

1998: Toyota Ceases Sales of Supra in the United States

In 1998, Toyota ceased sales of the fourth-generation Supra in the United States.

1998: Supra Withdrawn from US Market

In 1998, the Toyota Supra was withdrawn from the US market. The Turbo model was not available in California Air Resources Board (CARB) states in 1998.

1998: Supra Sales Cease in Canada

The 1998 model year marked the end of Toyota Supra sales in Canada.

1998: Last Year of Supra Sales in the US

The 1998 model year marked the last year of Toyota Supra sales in the US, with sales and exports for that region ceasing by the end of 1998.

August 2002: Production Ceases in Japan

In August 2002, production of the Toyota Supra ceased in Japan due to restrictive emission standards.

August 2002: End of Production in Japan

The Toyota Supra continued to be produced in Japan until August 2002, when production ended due to restrictive emissions regulations.

2002: End of Supra Production for Worldwide Markets

In 2002, production of the fourth-generation Supra ended for worldwide markets.

2002: End of Fourth Generation Production

In 2002, the production of the fourth-generation Toyota Supra concluded.

2004: Braking Record Broken

In 2004, the Toyota Supra Turbo's 1997 braking record was broken by a Porsche Carrera GT, which achieved the same feat in 145 ft (44 m).

January 2019: Fifth-Generation Supra Introduced

In January 2019, the fifth-generation Supra, co-developed with the G29 BMW Z4, was introduced.

March 2019: Fifth Generation Supra Production Begins

In March 2019, production of the fifth generation Toyota Supra began, co-developed with the G29 BMW Z4.

May 2019: Fifth Generation Supra Sales

In May 2019, the fifth generation Toyota Supra went on sale.

2023: New Driving Mode Introduced

In 2023, a new driving mode called Hairpin+ was introduced for the fifth-generation Toyota Supra, allowing additional wheel-spin to help rotate the car around tight turns.