We’ll cut straight to the chase here. A new Toyota GT 86 prototype covered in carbon fiber begs the question whether the Japanese firm is working on a track-focused, lightweight edition of the coupe without any changes under the hood or a true high-performance version for the road.
Besides the never-ending rumors on the subject, one reason why we’re contemplating the possibility of an upgraded engine are the twin air ducts on what looks to be a carbon fiber bonnet. The same lightweight material appears to feature on the roof and the boot that houses a fixed rear wing.
The tester captured on the Nürburgring was riding on low profile wheels, behind which we see the big disk brakes.
In its current form, the GT 86, a sibling to the North American Scion FR-S, makes do with a 2.0-liter flat four churning out 200PS (197hp), which moves the 1,275kg (2,811 pounds) coupe from zero to 62mph (100km/h) in 7.6 seconds when the driver works with a third pedal.
A slightly lighter version may or may not improve the car’s acceleration figures, but in combination with a sportier suspension setup and different wheels and tires, it could help the GT 86 get better on the track.
By John Halas
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
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