Toyota GT86 Racing Car
In 2011, with the unveiling of the Super BRZ Concept STI, Subaru also unveiled their latest entry in the Super GT series’ GT300-category. R&D Sport would develop the BRZ GT300 to replace their Legacy for the 2012 season. The BRZ GT300 does not utilize the production car’s FA20 engine, instead opting for the Legacy’s EJ20 engine.
Toyota, in partnership with Gazoo Racing, announced plans to develop the 86 for motorsport use in multiple disciplines. Toyota and Gazoo will support private teams in the Super Taikyu Endurance Series and All-Japan Rally Championship.[60] Gazoo Racing entered 86s in the 24 Hours Nürburgring, winning their SP3 class in 2012. Privateers Toyota Swiss Racing also claimed the V3 category in the same year.
In the United Kingdom, GPRM is developing a turbocharged version of the 86 for classification in the SRO Group’s GT4 category for use in Europe. The engine developments are being carried out by Nicholson McLaren Engines.
In the United States, Ken Gushi utilized a GPP Scion Racing FR-S built by GReddy Racing for the US Formula Drift championship. The FR-S features a turbocharged EJ25 boxer engine from a Subaru WRX STI produced more than 450 kW (600 bhp). In 2013 the FR-S replaced the Scion tC for the Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race at the Grand Prix of Long Beach. The FR-S’ were production units modified for racing safety and reliability. Nobuhiro Tajima will enter a Toyota 86 silhouette in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in 2013.
In October 2012, Toyota Racing Development and Gazoo Racing announced a production racing model for the Toyota 86. The 86 Racing adds brake and oil cooler modifications, as well as a 4-point racing harness and rollcage. The stock 86 wheels are replaced by simple steel rims, while the exterior colour was only available in white.
Subaru followed in early 2013 with the BRZ RA Racing, featuring similar modifications. Both cars are only available in the Japanese market, and are eligible for a one-make racing series run by Gazoo Racing. Unlike the Toyota, the BRZ is available in any of the production car’s colours.
