1997 Supra Launches 15th Anniversary Edition

Supra celebrates 15 years as Toyota's sport-performance flagship, as the 1997 model heralds the return of the six-speed manual transmission turbo model.

For 1997, all Supra models will be offered in a 15th Anniversary package and feature a rear spoiler, premium AM/FM/ETR cassette, special floor mats and limited-edition exterior badging -- all standard. Sport Roof models offer additional standard features including leather trimmed seats and a premium 3-in-1 AM/FM/ETR cassette/CD. Turbo models add to the already extensive list of standard equipment with a sport roof and polished aluminum alloy wheels.

All Supras are powered by a quick revving, twin-cam, in-line six-cylinder, 24-valve electronically fuel-injected engine. In normally aspirated trim, it produces 220 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 210 lb./ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. In addition to a tuned intake system, it incorporates split-exhaust manifolds for reduced engine back pressure, enhanced power output and greater fuel economy. The normally-aspirated Supra is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

Supra's turbocharged engine produces 320 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 315 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Supra's twin-sequential intercooled turbos offer quick response at low engine speeds and high-volume output at increased engine speeds. During low-rpm operation, only one turbocharger is active, using less exhaust energy to improve engine response and torque from a standing start. Both turbos activate at high engine speeds providing maximum boost. The Supra Turbo is available with a Getrag-designed six-speed manual transmission or a four-speed electronically controlled automatic with intelligence.

The automatic transmission's control system adjusts shift timing, torque-converter lock-up timing, and engine torque in order to deliver virtually seamless shifts. With the simple push of a console button, a driver-select manual shift mode allows for quicker shifting between gears. Also, should the driver start from second or third gear with the pedal depressed beyond the full-throttle position, a kickdown switch momentarily drops the transmission into first.

The '97 Supra's unibody has been strengthened in key areas for improved torsional rigidity. The double-wishbone four-wheel independent suspension is fitted with gas-filled, coil-over shock absorbers and hollow front and rear stabilizer bars, providing a comfortable ride with maximum control. Turbo models feature a roadgripping TorsenÔ torque-sensing, limited slip differential and defeatable traction control system.

Steering is power assisted, speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion, providing taut control and road feel at highway speeds, while not sacrificing assist at lower speeds.

Supra receives only minor exterior changes for 1997. The flush head and tail lamps see the addition of a graphite background and last year's tinted glass will be replaced with a new high solar energy absorbing glass. The vehicle also incorporates a revised lower fascia and specific “Supra Turbo” badging.

Non-turbo Supras feature 225/50ZR16 tires on 16x18-inch alloy wheels in front and 245/50ZR16 on 16x9-inch alloy wheels in the rear. Turbo models receive 235/45ZR17 tires on 17x8-inch alloy wheels in the front, and 225/40ZR17 tires on 17x9.5-inch on alloys in the rear.

Supra offers standard antilock brakes (ABS), incorporating a lateral G-sensor and multi-channel control circuitry to adapt to varied road and performance conditions. Other standard safety features on the Supra include dual air bags Supplemental Restraint System, a rigid passenger compartment and front and rear crumple zones.

The interior enhances the driving experience with a cockpit-like cabin, which incorporates a wrap-around instrument panel and easy-to-read, center-mounted gauges.

Designed with the driver in mind, Supra's standard amenities are power windows, door locks and mirrors, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, a lockable, lighted glove box, remote fuel door and trunk releases and auto-off headlamps. Additional equipment includes a theft deterrent system, digital clock, a driver-side foot rest, lighted hatch area, variable intermittent windshield wipers and an intermittent rear window wiper. Supra's premium sound systems all offer a built-in theft deterrent system and a diversity antenna for optimized FM reception.

Comfortable, supportive seats are contoured to hold drivers in place, even during hard cornering. Seats are available in a new recolored sport cloth with manual adjustment or leather trimmed with a power driver's seat.

This year, Supra offers greater noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control through additional sound insulating material, which is strategically placed throughout the vehicle for a more enjoyable cabin experience.

Supra offers buyers head turning style and sheer driving pleasure. Enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike will appreciate Toyota's “twin-turbo land rocket.”

For 1997, Supra is available in a new Royal Sapphire Pearl exterior paint color with recolored fabric seats.

Story by Toyota