Have you ever wondered about the connection between the Toyota Celica and the Supra? Many car enthusiasts, especially those new to the Toyota scene, often ask, "Is there a Toyota Celica Supra?" The answer is a resounding yes, and the story behind this iconic vehicle is a fascinating journey through automotive history. This article delves deep into the origins, evolution, and legacy of the Toyota Celica Supra, providing a comprehensive overview for both seasoned gearheads and curious newcomers.

The Genesis of the Celica Supra

The Toyota Celica Supra, initially known as the Toyota Celica XX in Japan, emerged as a derivative of the Celica in 1978. To understand its beginnings, it's essential to appreciate the Celica's role in Toyota's lineup. The Celica, introduced in the early 1970s, was a sporty coupe aimed at the North American market, designed to compete with the likes of the Ford Mustang and other popular sports cars of the era. It quickly gained a following for its stylish design and reliable performance. However, Toyota recognized the potential for a more powerful and luxurious version of the Celica, leading to the birth of the Celica Supra.

The first-generation Celica Supra (1978-1981) was essentially a Celica with a longer wheelbase and a more powerful engine. This elongation was necessary to accommodate Toyota's inline-six engine, which provided a significant boost in performance compared to the Celica's four-cylinder options. The inline-six engine, a 2.6-liter 4M-E, delivered around 110 horsepower, making the Celica Supra a legitimate sports tourer. The design of the first-generation Celica Supra retained many of the Celica's styling cues but featured a distinctive elongated front end, giving it a more aggressive and refined appearance. This model laid the foundation for what would become one of Toyota's most iconic sports cars.

Design and Features

The first-generation Celica Supra boasted several features that set it apart from its Celica counterpart. The longer wheelbase not only allowed for a larger engine but also improved the car's handling and stability. Inside, the Celica Supra offered a more luxurious experience with upgraded materials, comfortable seating, and advanced features for its time, such as power windows and air conditioning. The exterior design included sporty alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and distinctive badging, all contributing to its premium appeal. While it shared many components with the Celica, the Supra variant was positioned as a higher-end model, targeting buyers who wanted a blend of performance and comfort.

The Second Generation: A Leap Forward

The second-generation Celica Supra (1982-1986) marked a significant step forward in terms of design, performance, and technology. During this period, the Celica Supra was available in two distinct versions: the Celica Supra and the Celica. The Celica retained its sporty coupe design, while the Celica Supra evolved into a more muscular and performance-oriented machine. This generation saw the introduction of more powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, and a host of technological upgrades that solidified the Celica Supra's position as a serious contender in the sports car market. The styling also became more angular and modern, reflecting the design trends of the early 1980s.

The engines in the second-generation Celica Supra were significantly upgraded. The 2.8-liter 5M-GE inline-six engine became the standard, producing around 145 horsepower in its early iterations and later increasing to 160-170 horsepower. This engine featured electronic fuel injection and other advanced technologies, providing improved performance and fuel efficiency. The Celica Supra also benefited from a sport-tuned suspension, featuring independent rear suspension and optional limited-slip differential, enhancing its handling capabilities. These improvements made the second-generation Celica Supra a joy to drive, whether on the street or the track.

Advanced Technology and Design

The second-generation Celica Supra incorporated numerous advanced technologies for its time. Features such as electronic fuel injection, digital instrument clusters, and automatic climate control were available, adding to the car's appeal. The design was also thoroughly updated, with a more aerodynamic profile, pop-up headlights, and a distinctive rear spoiler. The interior was redesigned to offer a more comfortable and driver-focused environment, with supportive seats and intuitive controls. The combination of performance, technology, and design made the second-generation Celica Supra a standout model in the Toyota lineup and a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.

The Third Generation: The Supra Breaks Free

The third generation (1986-1993) marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Supra. In 1986, Toyota made the bold decision to separate the Supra from the Celica, establishing it as an independent model. This meant that the Supra would no longer be marketed as the Celica Supra but simply as the Supra. This decision allowed Toyota to further develop the Supra as a high-performance sports car, distinct from the more mainstream Celica. The third-generation Supra, known as the A70, featured a completely new design and a range of powerful turbocharged engines, cementing its status as a true sports car legend.

The A70 Supra showcased a sleek, aerodynamic design with a long hood and a short rear deck. The body lines were smooth and modern, reflecting the design trends of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Under the hood, the Supra was powered by a range of inline-six engines, including the legendary 7M-GE and 7M-GTE. The 7M-GE was a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter engine producing around 200 horsepower, while the 7M-GTE was a turbocharged version that delivered an impressive 230 horsepower. The turbocharged Supra was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars of its time.

Performance and Handling

The third-generation Supra was engineered for performance and handling. It featured a double-wishbone suspension system, providing excellent road holding and precise handling. The turbocharged models also came with a limited-slip differential, further enhancing traction and cornering ability. The Supra's braking system was also upgraded, with large ventilated disc brakes providing strong and consistent stopping power. These features, combined with its powerful engine and aerodynamic design, made the third-generation Supra a formidable competitor on both the street and the track. It quickly gained a reputation as a high-performance sports car that could rival European and American competitors.

The Fourth Generation: The Icon Reborn

The fourth-generation Supra (1993-2002), often referred to as the A80, is arguably the most iconic and beloved of all Supra models. This generation took the Supra's performance and design to new heights, solidifying its place in automotive history. The A80 Supra featured a curvaceous and aerodynamic design, a lightweight chassis, and a range of powerful engines, including the legendary 2JZ-GTE. This model is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world, thanks to its performance capabilities and tuning potential.

The A80 Supra was powered by two engine options: the 2JZ-GE and the 2JZ-GTE. The 2JZ-GE was a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing around 220 horsepower, while the 2JZ-GTE was a twin-turbocharged version that delivered an impressive 320 horsepower (280 horsepower in Japan due to regulations). The 2JZ-GTE is renowned for its strength and durability, capable of handling massive amounts of power with the right modifications. The turbocharged Supra could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. Its performance capabilities and tuning potential have made it a favorite among tuners and racers.

Design and Legacy

The design of the fourth-generation Supra was a radical departure from its predecessors, with a sleek and curvaceous body that exuded speed and performance. The Supra's long hood, short rear deck, and large rear spoiler gave it a distinctive and aggressive appearance. Inside, the Supra featured a driver-focused cockpit with comfortable seats and intuitive controls. The A80 Supra was also relatively lightweight, thanks to the use of aluminum in the hood, targa top (on some models), and suspension components. The combination of its stunning design, powerful engine, and lightweight construction made the fourth-generation Supra a true icon. Its legacy continues to this day, with prices for well-maintained examples skyrocketing in recent years.

The Supra's Resurgence: The Fifth Generation

After a long hiatus, the Supra made a triumphant return in 2019 with the introduction of the fifth-generation model, co-developed with BMW. This new Supra, known as the A90, pays homage to its predecessors while incorporating modern technology and design. While some purists may debate its BMW-derived components, the A90 Supra offers impressive performance and handling, ensuring that the Supra name lives on for a new generation of enthusiasts.

The A90 Supra is powered by a range of engines, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. The inline-six engine produces around 335 horsepower (later upgraded to 382 horsepower), providing exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. The A90 Supra also features a sophisticated suspension system, precise steering, and a host of advanced technologies, making it a capable and enjoyable sports car. While it may not be a purely Toyota product, the A90 Supra has successfully revived the Supra name and introduced it to a new generation of car enthusiasts.

Modern Technology and Design

The fifth-generation Supra incorporates modern technology and design elements while paying homage to its predecessors. The exterior design features a long hood, short rear deck, and a distinctive double-bubble roof, reminiscent of the fourth-generation model. Inside, the Supra offers a comfortable and driver-focused cockpit with a host of advanced features, including a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment screen, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. The A90 Supra also benefits from BMW's engineering expertise, ensuring high levels of performance, reliability, and refinement. While it may not be a direct descendant of the original Celica Supra, the A90 Supra carries on the spirit of performance and innovation that has defined the Supra name for decades.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Toyota Celica Supra

So, to answer the initial question: Yes, there was indeed a Toyota Celica Supra. From its humble beginnings as a Celica derivative to its evolution into an independent sports car icon, the Supra has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Whether you're a fan of the first-generation Celica Supra, the legendary fourth-generation A80, or the modern fifth-generation A90, there's no denying the Supra's enduring appeal. Its combination of performance, design, and technology has made it a beloved sports car for generations, and its legacy continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world. The Toyota Celica Supra is more than just a car; it's a symbol of automotive innovation and a testament to Toyota's commitment to performance and quality.