1997 Toyota Supra Turbo 1997 review

Toyota Supra Turbo 1997 review:

Supra celebrated 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 were 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.

Supra's turbocharged engine produces 320 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 315 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 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.

Supra received 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.

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. End of Toyota Supra Turbo 1997 review.