[Blighty]

Originally Posted by Spuds

So I test drove a GR86 (base) back to back with my FRS today. Put about 15 miles on it in what passes for back roads around here. Engine and transmission were improved as expected, brakes were fantastic, but the steering was a bit of a let down. Note on the clutch, it was light, but it was extremely easy to learn and be consistent with.

To discuss the steering a bit more (since this is the 'any good reason to stay with first gen' thread):
I like how the FRS steering increases in weight as you increase lock which the GR86 didn't really have. The GR86 was pretty direct and predictable, but it was more like turn the wheel and hold it in place than the leaning on the wheel in the FRS. Also, the GR seems a bit delayed to make quick direction changes where my FRS is immediate. These combined to give me less confidence in the front end of the car when it came to things like rotaries and sharp turns. Curves and such were fine but I still prefer more weight. This could be down to tires, but I think there is more to it than that. The new hood humps might also have something to do with being confident in placement, might just take getting used to.

The back end of the GR86 felt more stable in all conditions; quick, sweeping, bumpy, etc. That's probably due to some combination of chassis improvements, different suspension, and the FRS bushings being 9 years old.

As far as speed, my head knows from both experience and numbers that the GR is quite a bit faster, and easier to drive faster in a straight line at least, but the FRS didn't feel any slower when I was driving home.

Anyway, quick shout out to Toyota of Southern Maryland who let me test drive their Trueno Blue MT GR86. They've got it marked up $5k on the sticker but it was there with 32 miles on the clock when I left if anyone is interested. Joe was pretty chill. I think I'm going to stick with the FRS for the time being.

Relevant notes on my FRS: 55,000 miles. Stock, original suspension with rpf1s and Advan Sport v105s in stock size.

Very nice comparison, and shame about the tire differences.

Did they let you give it the beans on the new model?