Toyota Celica Supra – The Complete History of an Iconic Japanese Sports Car

The Toyota Celica Supra was a sports car produced across four generations from 1979 to 2002. The Supra began life as an upscale grand touring variant of the Toyota Celica liftback, though it was later split off into its distinct model. Over its lifespan, the Supra evolved into an iconic high-performance coupe noted for its power, handling, and styling.

First Generation Celica Supra (1979–1981)

The first Supra was launched in 1979 as an upgrade. A more luxurious version of the second-generation Celica liftback. Powered by a 2.6L inline-6 engine producing 110hp, the first Supra offered sports car styling and performance in a grand touring package. It featured upgraded suspension, wider tires, and aerodynamic bodywork extensions. The interior marked an upscale feel with leather seats and an 8-track stereo option. The first Supra established the model’s identity as a premium sports model.

Second Generation Celica Supra (1982–1986)

The second-generation Supra saw a more significant split from the Celica model range. Sitting on its rear-wheel drive platform, the new Supra featured even sportier styling and independent suspension. Engine choices ranged from a 2.8L I6 to the turbocharged 3.0L 7M-GTE making 174hp. With 0-60 mph acceleration in the mid-8-second range, the second-gen cemented the Supra’s reputation for speed. In 1986, the Mark II and Mark III were introduced with more luxury features and 205hp for the Mark III 7M-GTE turbo.

Third Generation Celica Supra (1986–1992)

The third-generation Supra represented a major leap with its styling and performance. Featuring sleek, futuristic styling and an all-new design, the third-gen looked like a fascinating supercar. Under the hood was a 3.0L I6 as well as the new 2JZ turbo inline-6 making 232hp which accelerated 0-60 in 5.7 seconds. Twin turbos introduced in 1987 boosted power to 276hp. Active suspension and stability systems were added later in the generation. Luxury details like automatic climate control and motorized seats defined the interior.

Fourth Generation Celica Supra (1993–2002)

The fourth and final Supra generation stayed true to the core formula of inline-6 power, rear-wheel drive, and striking head-turning styling. But under this evolutionary look, the mighty 2JZ engine was tuned to new heights. The base naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE made up to 225hp, while the 2JZ-GTE twin-turbocharged models put out up to 320hp—enough to propel the Supra from 0-60 in just 4.6 seconds. The turbo became so synonymous with the Supra. It’s the naturally aspirated models were discontinued for the 1998 model year. With huge power and prestige, the fourth-gen cemented the Supra’s spot in sports car history until the end of production in 2002.

Supra Racing Heritage

The Supra gained fame on both the street and track thanks to its performance pedigree. Turbocharged models were dominant in import drag racing. The fourth-gen was an especially potent platform for tuners to push huge power out of the 2JZ engine, with 1000+ hp builds becoming common. On the track, the Castrol Tom’s Supra was a force in the Japanese GT championship. The Supra remains a popular choice for amateur racers and professional competitions alike.

Legacy of the Toyota Supra

Over its four generations, the Toyota Supra evolved into an automotive icon thanks to its striking styling. Toyota’s reliability, tuner potential, and focus on performance. It was a halo car that helped drive Toyota’s reputation for speed and technical innovation. The Supra nameplate has built up an extensive, loyal fan base over the decades. After a 20-year production hiatus, Toyota finally reintroduced the Supra for the 2020 model year. This fifth-generation car aims to recapture the magic of the Supra past with a powerful turbo straight-six, premium interior, and bold looks. For over 40 years, the Toyota Celica Supra has stood out as one of Japan’s most legendary sports cars.