What To Know
- However, Suzuki, a Japanese automotive giant known for its compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, did produce a sports car called the Suzuki Cappuccino, which some enthusiasts consider a spiritual successor to the first-generation Supra due to its lightweight, rear-wheel drive configuration and turbocharged engine.
- The Toyota Supra is a modern performance car designed for speed and agility, while the Suzuki Cappuccino is a lightweight roadster focused on fun and engaging driving dynamics.
- The Toyota Supra features a modern and aggressive design, while the Suzuki Cappuccino boasts a unique and charming retro aesthetic.
The Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Supra are two iconic sports cars that have captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. While both models share the “Supra” moniker, their origins, design, and performance differ significantly. This article dives deep into the fascinating world of the Toyota Supra vs Suzuki Supra, exploring their histories, key features, and comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which Supra reigns supreme.
A History of Two Supras
The Toyota Supra, a name synonymous with legendary performance, first appeared in 1978 as a luxurious grand tourer based on the Celica platform. It quickly became a cult classic, particularly the iconic fourth-generation (A70) model, known for its powerful straight-six engine and rear-wheel drive setup. The Supra was discontinued in 2002 but was resurrected in 2019, with the fifth-generation (A90) model showcasing a modern interpretation of the iconic nameplate.
The Suzuki Supra, on the other hand, never existed. The “Supra” name is exclusively associated with Toyota. However, Suzuki, a Japanese automotive giant known for its compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, did produce a sports car called the Suzuki Cappuccino, which some enthusiasts consider a spiritual successor to the first-generation Supra due to its lightweight, rear-wheel drive configuration and turbocharged engine.
The Toyota Supra: A Modern Icon
The 2023 Toyota Supra, a captivating blend of heritage and modern technology, is a testament to Toyota’s dedication to performance. It features a sleek, aerodynamic design that pays homage to its predecessors while incorporating contemporary styling cues. Under the hood, the Supra boasts a powerful turbocharged six-cylinder engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration and precise handling.
Here are some key features of the Toyota Supra:
- Powerful Engine: The Supra is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: The Supra’s rear-wheel drive configuration provides excellent handling and a thrilling driving experience.
- Lightweight Chassis: The Supra’s lightweight chassis and sophisticated suspension system contribute to its agility and responsiveness.
- Sporty Interior: The Supra’s interior is designed for both comfort and performance, featuring supportive sport seats, a digital instrument cluster, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
The Suzuki Cappuccino: A Lightweight Contender
The Suzuki Cappuccino, produced from 1991 to 1998, was a compact, lightweight roadster that captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its playful driving dynamics and distinctive design. Its 657cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine, although small, delivered surprisingly punchy performance, making it a fun and engaging car to drive.
Key features of the Suzuki Cappuccino include:
- Lightweight Design: The Cappuccino’s lightweight construction, weighing in at just over 1,600 pounds, contributed to its exceptional handling and agility.
- Turbocharged Engine: The Cappuccino’s small but potent turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivered a surprising amount of power and torque for its size.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: The Cappuccino’s rear-wheel drive setup provided a playful and engaging driving experience, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
- Unique Design: The Cappuccino’s distinctive design featured a retractable soft top, pop-up headlights, and a compact body, making it a truly unique and charming roadster.
Comparing the Two Supras
While the Suzuki Cappuccino may be considered a spiritual successor to the first-generation Supra, the two cars are fundamentally different. The Toyota Supra is a modern performance car designed for speed and agility, while the Suzuki Cappuccino is a lightweight roadster focused on fun and engaging driving dynamics.
Here’s a comparison of the two cars in terms of various aspects:
Performance: The Toyota Supra clearly surpasses the Suzuki Cappuccino in terms of raw performance. Its powerful six-cylinder engine delivers significantly more power and torque, making it much faster and more capable on the track.
Handling: Both cars offer engaging handling, but the Suzuki Cappuccino’s lightweight design and nimble chassis make it more agile and playful to drive on winding roads.
Design: The Toyota Supra features a modern and aggressive design, while the Suzuki Cappuccino boasts a unique and charming retro aesthetic.
Price: The Toyota Supra is a significantly more expensive car than the Suzuki Cappuccino. The latter, being a discontinued model, is now a sought-after classic, commanding a premium price in the used car market.
The Verdict: Which Supra Reigns Supreme?
Choosing between the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino ultimately comes down to personal preference and driving needs. The Toyota Supra is a modern performance car designed for speed and agility, while the Suzuki Cappuccino is a lightweight roadster focused on fun and engaging driving dynamics.
If you’re looking for a powerful and capable sports car that can handle both the track and the open road, the Toyota Supra is the clear choice. However, if you’re seeking a playful and charming roadster that offers a unique driving experience, the Suzuki Cappuccino is a worthy contender.
The Legacy of the Supras
The Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino, despite their differences, share a common thread: they both represent the spirit of driving passion and the joy of connecting with the road. The Toyota Supra continues to evolve as a modern performance icon, while the Suzuki Cappuccino remains a cherished classic that embodies the true essence of a lightweight roadster.
Information You Need to Know
1. What is the price difference between the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino?
The Toyota Supra is a significantly more expensive car than the Suzuki Cappuccino. The 2023 Toyota Supra starts at around $45,000, while the Suzuki Cappuccino can fetch upwards of $10,000 in the used car market.
2. What is the fuel economy of the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino?
The Toyota Supra achieves an estimated 25 mpg combined, while the Suzuki Cappuccino offers a slightly better fuel economy of 30 mpg combined.
3. Are the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino suitable for daily driving?
Both cars can be driven daily, but they are not the most practical options. The Toyota Supra has a relatively small trunk and the Suzuki Cappuccino‘s small size and lack of modern amenities may not be ideal for everyday use.
4. Are the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino reliable cars?
Both cars have a reputation for reliability, but the Suzuki Cappuccino, being an older model, may require more maintenance than the newer Toyota Supra.
5. What are the main differences between the Toyota Supra and the Suzuki Cappuccino?
The Toyota Supra is a modern performance car focused on speed and agility, while the Suzuki Cappuccino is a lightweight roadster focused on fun and engaging driving dynamics. The Supra is larger, more powerful, and more expensive than the Cappuccino.
