Few names in the world of performance cars carry as much weight as the Toyota Supra. From its roots in the 1970s to becoming a 1990s tuning icon, and now reborn in modern racing series, the Supra’s motorsport journey is as dynamic as the car itself. With its return to professional racing, the Supra proves it’s more than just a street legend — it’s a serious contender on the track.
The Early Years: Group A and Touring Cars
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Toyota Supra Mk3 (A70) made its mark in Group A racing. Competing in events like the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC) and Australian Touring Car Championship, the Supra was known for its powerful 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine and impressive straight-line speed.
Though it was often outclassed by lighter and more nimble competitors, it laid the foundation for what the Supra name would eventually become in motorsport: a powerful, rear-wheel-drive machine built for speed.
JDM Icon to Global Phenomenon: The Mk4 Supra and Tuning Culture
While the Mk4 Supra (A80) wasn’t as active in factory-supported motorsport, it became a legend in drag racing, time attack, and drifting thanks to its 2JZ-GTE engine — one of the most famous and durable powerplants in automotive history.
It was a favorite in:
Formula Drift (used by private teams and pro drivers)
Japanese time attack events like Tsukuba Circuit
Underground drag racing scenes in the U.S. and Japan
Its popularity skyrocketed due to its tuning potential, media presence (especially in Fast & Furious), and its domination in aftermarket motorsport.
The Return: GR Supra GT4 and GT500
After nearly two decades, the Supra returned to motorsport officially with the A90 GR Supra:
🏁 GR Supra GT4
Launched in 2020, the GR Supra GT4 is a customer race car built for GT4 competition across Europe, North America, and Asia. Highlights include:
3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine (BMW-sourced, Toyota-tuned)
Lightweight body with racing aero kit
Fully FIA-homologated for endurance and sprint racing
Competitive in series like GT4 European Series, IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, and SRO GT4 America
Private teams using the GR Supra GT4 have earned multiple podiums and championship points, proving the car’s performance and reliability.
🏁 GR Supra GT500 – Super GT
In 2020, the Supra replaced the Lexus LC500 in Japan’s Super GT series (GT500 class). This version of the Supra is a purpose-built race car, sharing only the name and basic design cues with the road car. It features:
A 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine (per GT500 regulations)
Advanced aerodynamics developed for downforce and cornering speed
Carbon fiber monocoque and race-tuned suspension
Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Supra GT500 has won races and consistently competed for championships, keeping Toyota at the forefront of Japan’s premier racing series.
Supra in Formula Drift
The modern Supra has also made a strong showing in Formula Drift, driven by top talents like Fredric Aasbø (2021 FD Champion). With massive custom turbo setups, rear-wheel drive, and balanced chassis tuning, the Supra is a natural drift weapon.
Conclusion: More Than a Street Icon
“From touring car circuits and drag strips to GT4 and Super GT podiums, the Toyota Supra has carved its name across the global motorsport map. With backing from Toyota Gazoo Racing, it’s no longer just a tuner favorite it’s a full-fledged competitor”.
The Supra’s rebirth in motorsport isn’t just a nostalgia play it’s a testament to Toyota’s commitment to performance, innovation, and racing heritage.
