Have you been dreaming about buying a fourth-generation Toyota Supra? Of course, you have; we all have. That’s right, just about everybody loves the MK4 Toyota Supra, and for good reason too – it’s one of the definitive sports cars from the 1990s, and more recently, a genuine pop culture icon. So, whether your wallet is furnished with the funds or not, here’s everything you need to know about the A80 Supra, including what to watch out for, which model comes with what, and how much you should spend.
This buyer’s guide combines on-paper information and independent tests/real test drive reports, where available. All Mk4 Supra years have been covered in this analysis.
1993 – 1998 Toyota Supra Overview
Fourth-Generation A80 Toyota Supra
First offered in America during June of 1993, the fourth-generation Toyota Supra, known by the model code A80, was a powerful sports car with plenty of appeal. The design had moved on leaps and bounds over the decidedly ’80s third generation, and for any Japanese sports car fan, the sleek and well-proportioned silhouette will be instantly recognizable.
Base models of the A80 Supra are powered along by a silky smooth inline-six, dubbed the 2JZ-GE. This naturally aspirated ‘six’ provided plenty of motivation for a ’90s sports coupe, with 220 horsepower on offer, but the twin-turbocharged 2JZ-GTE has always been the one to have. Offered with either a four-speed automatic or the driver’s choice of a six-speed manual, the twin-turbo Supra MK4 makes 320 hp. It’s this more potent model that found fame with tuning fans, as seen in the Fast & Furious film franchise.
- The A80 Supra was available from June 1993 onwards, in the American market
- Toyota launched the A80 Supra with a base price of $22,333
- The Toyota MK4 Supra was made available in base, Targa, and Turbo variants
- Toyota’s MK4 Supra was powered by the now-iconic 2JZ engine, equipped with twin-turbos
Mk4 Toyota Supra Engine And Performance
Engines
3.0-liter inline-six, Twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six
Horsepower
220 horsepower | 320 horsepower (turbo)
Torque
210 lb-ft | 315 lb-ft (turbo)
Transmissions
6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive
0-60
4.8 seconds (turbo)
Fuel Economy*
15/22/18 mpg (1994 Supra 3.0 Turbo with manual)
* As per the EPA
In comparison to contemporary sports cars from the 1990s, the fourth-generation Toyota Supra is surprisingly economical – boasting a combined EPA-rated gas mileage figure of 18 mpg for the 1994 manual turbocharged model. This is because Toyota opted to use turbochargers to boost performance, rather than relying on a large engine capacity. Furthermore, the 2JZ in all states of tune has proven to be immensely reliable, with many examples racking up six-digit mileages, both in standard and modified examples.
However, the real appeal of Supra MK4 hp lies within the 2JZ. Even the base models were sprightly performers, with 220 horsepower, but the turbocharged MK4 A80 Supras were different beasts altogether, sending 320 horses back to the rear wheels. Driving enthusiasts will always lust after the six-speed manual transmission, although many were specified and sold with a solid four-speed automatic. Sure, it won’t provide the same involvement as a manual, and the changes will be slow and sluggish in comparison to today’s tech, but the auto ‘box is still a great option, especially for those just looking to cruise and enjoy a MK4 Supra.
Get the perfect launch, and the flagship Supra MK4’s 0-60 is just 4.8 seconds. When left in stock form, the Supra MK4 top speed reaches 155 mph. MK4 Supra weight, coming in between 3,215 and 3,550 pounds depending on the configuration, is light enough for some sprightly launches. The 2JZ engines were also built tough, which is why the tuning company welcomed the Supra’s arrival with open arms. Relatively simple bolt-on modifications can see the power figure swell by considerable amounts, before opening up the engine is even required. However, complete engine builds can see the engine’s output soar somewhat north of 1,000 horsepower.
Mk4 Toyota Supra Exterior And Interior Design
The MK4 Supra was not the only powerhouse coupe to come out of Japan in the 1990s, but its sleek and simple silhouette is easily one of the most recognizable from the era. Although not all were equipped with it, the rear spoiler from Toyota’s A80 Supra is very distinctive, and one of the most recognized features of the model.
Many owners decided to further enhance their Supras with aftermarket body kits, such as those featured in the Fast & Furious films. As is usually the case, though, it is the standard examples with all factory panels that now command the most money, so bear that in mind when considering buying or modifying a MK4 Supra.
While some were hardtops, with or without a sunroof, many of the MK4 Supras were sold with a removable targa roof. This allows for both wind-in-the-hair motoring, and also the smoother shape of a fixed-roof coupe.
Exterior: MK4 Toyota Supra
Key Features:
- Distinctive rear spoiler
- Removable roof panel
- 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, chrome or silver
Hailing from the early 1990s means no trims nor grades of the MK4 Toyota Supra are swimming with impressive interior specs, and instead keep things relatively simple. Cloth seats were standard, with decidedly ’90s patterns, although many chose to upgrade to the leather trim package. Popular colors include beige, gray and black – door panels were also trimmed to match.
There is no mistaking the Supra for anything other than a driver’s car, thanks to the smattering of analog gauges that are all angled toward the driver, allowing them to keep an eye on all things mechanical while pushing the limits of this striking coupe. Other occupants wouldn’t go uncatered for, though, as they could tune into the seven-speaker system with their favorite CD or cassette – a reasonably impressive audio setup for the era.
Interior: Mk4 Toyota Supra
Key Features:
- Optional leather trim package
- Driver-focused cabin, with all gauges and switches angled toward the driver
- Seven-speaker sound system with amplified subwoofer
Ultimately, the deciding factor as to how well-equipped your MK4 Supra interior comes is your budget for one. Top-flight models, such as the late Turbo cars and 15th anniversary editions, will always command the most money; they come with larger 17-inch alloy wheels, that stylish rear spoiler (if optioned), and the premium-finish leather seats. Lower grade models, such as SE cars, come with 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, which can look a little lost in the wheel arches, in addition to a simple gray cloth interior. That being said, all trims are very ‘of the era’, and so come with a unique charm of their own, especially to those who remember them from new.
Mk4 Toyota Supra Common Problems
1998 MK4 Toyota Supra rear 3/4 close-up shot in greenBring A Trailer
- Number of Recalls as per NHTSA: 1 recall (1997 & 1998)
- Number of complaints as per the NHTSA: 16 complaints (1993 – 1998)
Impressively, and acting as testament to the famed reliability of Toyota models, particularly from this era, only one recall affects the MK4 Toyota Supra. The recall in question is one that affects way more than just the Supra, as it refers to the Takata airbag recall problem which so many cars suffer from. The exact issue is that the airbag may rupture or under-inflate in the event of a crash, which poses a significant risk to occupants.
The recall, identified by the NHTSA campaign number 20V033000, affects a total of 138,842 Toyota models, including the 1997 and 1998 Toyota Supra. As concerning as this recall is, the lack of any others, in addition to the low number of complaints logged, should be reassuring for fans of the Supra. For further reassurance, the MK4 Supra has attracted just one complaint on Car Complaints, for the 1996 model year. Funnily enough, it may be seen as a positive by most, as the owner chose to complain that their Supra is ‘too powerful’, and that ‘other drivers just want to race’.
Owners forums are useful in pointing out other common issues, such as rattles from the targa roof, common rust traps, failing coil packs and the usual array of small oil leaks. With all said and done, though, those in the know have very little to grumble about when it comes to owning and maintaining a fourth-gen Toyota Supra.
Which Mk4 Supra Year Is The Best?
The MK4 Supra’s years span from 1993 to 1998, but which year is the best? When looking through Toyota Supra MK4 specifications, most of the numbers will be the same for each year. When it comes down to it, they’re all pretty great. As we mentioned in the above section, though, there is a recall that affects the airbags in the ’97 and ’98 models; as long as the owner at the time had the recall taken care of, that’s no longer an issue that would disqualify those years.
We’ll get to specific owner feedback next, but the gist of many forums comes down to which looks they prefer. Some people prefer the look of the ’93-’95 model years, but others prefer the interior and steering wheels in the ’97 and ’98 models, along with those model years’ new headlights and taillights. The later model years also reportedly have softer suspension and the seats don’t have pass-throughs for racing harnesses. When it comes down to it, the twin-turbo models from 1997-1998 are some of the best for their slightly updated looks, paint colors, and just as solid reliability and performance.
Mk4 Supra Owner Feedback
It’s safe to say current and past owners of the Toyota Supra Mk4 are pleased with their experiences. Not only are they a blast to drive and turn heads at every car meet across the country, but the Mk4 Supra’s engine is dead reliable and can be tuned for even more fun. Here’s what some owners have to say about reliability, performance, and overall ownership
“The engine block will stay plenty strong (over 150k) with proper care. These engines are overbuilt but not invincible. If they are beaten, then they can die before 100k. Get a compression check done before buying.” – User “TooSlow” on SupraForums.com, 2002.
“I speak from personal experience daily/semi-daily driving turbo and na mkiv Supras for many years. These are as reliable as any 90s Toyota, and easily daily usable, get it inspected and serviced and don’t skip regular/major service intervals and that’s pretty much all you have to do, certain parts can be more difficult/expensive to source but that’s not a common issue” – User “Alexexec” on Reddit forum r/ToyotaSupra, 2023.
“This car makes me FEEL things no other car ever has. It’s got that combination of the raw, connected driving feel, the noise, the rattles, the communicative steering of a 90s Japanese car, but it can also be made fast as all hell. It can handle so much abuse and can make power without being tuned within an inch of its life or needing to be disassembled every 6 months.” – User “Savage_XRDS” on Reddit forum r/Supra, 2024.
Pricing And Key Rivals
Anyone with a vague interest in Japanese sports cars of the 1990s will be able to reel off any number of key rivals to the MK4 Toyota Supra. Shoppers with the deepest of pockets will be able to consider cool alternatives, such as the almighty R33 and R34 Skyline GT-Rs, Acura’s mid-engine NSX, and even the highly limited 22B-STi Subaru Impreza. Prices for such models vary wildly, but for the nicest examples, you’ll need multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars. The same is true for the very best turbocharged Supras, too, as is evidenced by Hagerty’s valuation of $310,000 for a perfect-condition ’97 Limited Edition Turbo model.
Good news, though: cheaper options are available. Instead of chasing perfection for north of a quarter-million dollars, you could get away with spending just $44,900. Data from Bring A Trailer’s auctions over the last twelve months show that non-turbo models with an automatic transmission can sell for $35,000 to $50,000 depending on model year and condition. That’s how much Hagerty pegs a good condition ’94 Supra at, with the naturally aspirated 2JZ under the hood. Comparable rivals would be Mitsubishi’s 3000GT, any number of Lancer Evolutions. The Toyota Supra MK4 price doesn’t have to be insane, so long as you’re okay with settling for a non-turbo Supra MK4 engine with an automatic transmission.
MK4 Supra Rivals Are More Reasonably Valued
2000 Mitsubishi 3000GT Front Angle View In RedMitsubishi
We totally understand the pain of your dream car being out of your budget. Will MK4 Supras ever drop in price? We sure hope so, but there are other options for you today. The Mitsubishi 3000GT is another ’90s Japanese sports car that can be just as fun to drive while costing less. According to Classic.com, the model is worth an average of $26,894 — this takes 38 auctions and sales from the past twelve months into account. The most sought-after variant is the third-gen (1997–1999) VR-4 trim, of which two examples sold for $80k to over $100k last year.
The VR-4 trim was available for the model’s entire lifespan from 1990 through 1999. It was equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that makes 300–320 horsepower and 308-315 lb-ft of torque (output was increased to 320 hp and 315 lb-ft in 1994), which was sent to all four wheels via a 5/6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Summary: Should You Buy A MK4 Toyota Supra?
Absolutely, if you lust after one and can afford it, then yes – buy the Supra. Not only is it a genuine modern-classic, almost guaranteed to hold value and deliver plenty of smiles-per-mile, it’s also one of the most appreciated and beloved models to have been produced in the 1990s. Car enthusiasts of all ages will be able to enjoy seeing your Supra kicking about on the streets; be it a simple naturally aspirated targa, or a fully built 1,000-horsepower turbo coupe, people just love seeing Supras.
Furthermore, bulletproof reliability and simple mechanicals (compared to newer sports cars) mean keeping a Supra on the road is not a daunting task. Just, as ever, ensure you buy the best you can afford, and take a preventative rather than reactionary approach to maintenance.
Base Trim Engine
3L I6 ICE
Base Trim Transmission
6-speed manual
Base Trim Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
382 HP @5800 RPM
Base Trim Torque
368 lb.-ft. @ 1800 RPM
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
19/26/21 MPG
Base Trim Battery Type
Lead acid battery
Sources: Toyota, NHTSA, Supra Forums, Car Complaints, Hagerty, Bring A Trailer
