In 1979, Toyota released a Japanese sports car that would go on to become a legend in the automotive world – the Toyota Supra. The Supra was the successor to the Toyota Celica and was designed to compete with other high-performance sports cars of the era, such as the Nissan Z and the Mazda RX-7.
The first generation Toyota Supra, known as the A40/A50 series, was powered by a 2.6-liter inline-six engine that produced 110 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers may seem modest by today’s standards, the Supra’s lightweight and balanced chassis made it a joy to drive on twisty roads and racetracks.
One of the most iconic features of the 1979 Toyota Supra was its distinctive styling, with its long hood, pop-up headlights, and flared fenders giving it a sleek and aggressive appearance. The Supra also featured a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with supportive seats, a sporty steering wheel, and a full array of gauges and controls.
The Toyota Supra quickly gained a reputation for its performance and reliability, with many owners praising its smooth power delivery, excellent handling, and strong build quality. The Supra also proved to be a popular platform for tuning and customization, with many enthusiasts adding aftermarket parts and modifications to enhance its performance and appearance.
Over the years, the Toyota Supra would go through several generations, each one more powerful and advanced than the last. However, it was the original 1979 model that laid the foundation for the Supra’s success and cemented its place as a classic Japanese sports car.
Today, the 1979 Toyota Supra is a sought-after collector’s item, with well-maintained examples commanding high prices on the used car market. Its timeless design, solid performance, and enduring popularity have ensured that the Toyota Supra remains a beloved icon of Japanese automotive engineering.