The Toyota FT-86 Open Concept could've been a Mazda MX-5 Rival
And what a great rival it would've been.
It's a stunning concept, the FT-86 Open. It's arguably better looking than the Mazda MX-5, what would've been its chief rival. However, I'm ready to bet that this car would've been much better than the MX-5, had it been produced. Sadly, this is just a concept that never came to production. So then, get yourself a bag of popcorn, a drink, and get ready for a trip down memory lane.
In fact, we will be going 7 years back in memory lane, at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. That is where the FT-86 Open was first debuted. It's also the last place we ever saw of this incredible concept. The goal behind the FT-86 was to take the already run Toyota 86 and upgrade the fun factor from a 10/10 to 11/10 by making it a convertible. Throughout this, the FT-86 would still retain its 2+2 seating format, while minimally impacting cargo capacity. In other words, it would be a Toyota 86 without a roof, and more importantly, without any compromise. And it was a looker too, not some poorly executed plan that looked hideous. The FT-86 Open really could've been an amazing hit for Toyota.
Even more disappointing is that this car would've been much better than the Mazda MX-5 of its day. The FT-86 Open Concept would've had the same engine as the normal Toyota 86 would have had. The Toyota FT-86 Open has 200 horsepower, while the Mazda boasted 167 horsepower. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning the MX-5 was 300 pounds lighter. Still, the Toyota FT-86 Open is faster than the MX-5. In fact, the Mazda did the 0-60 run in 7.6 seconds, while the Toyota FT-86 Open would've done it in 7 seconds flat. However, these numbers have a big asterisk on them, as these numbers are based on the normal Toyota 86. The Toyota FT-86 Open Concept might be slower and have a lowered structural integrity, which would affect performance figures. Shockingly though, Toyota says that the FT-86 would've had the fastest paddle shifting speed of a minimal 0.2 seconds.
So, is this concept dead?
Given the fact that its been 7 years, it sure seems so. Toyota has been contacted for further details, but at the time of the release of this article, there hasn't been any response yet. This article will be updated as soon as details reveal themselves.
It's sad that this car never saw the production line. The FT-86 is a stunning car, that just never quite made it.
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Comments (28)
No...it wouldn’t. The base 86/BRZ already weighs 200kgs more than an MX5 and this would have been heavier and probably floppier. No car ever designed as a coupe, has been made into a better convertible.
And the ND MX5 is a better car than the 86/BRZ and always has been.
probably f l o p p i e r
I owned an NB and an FRS. Nope, what made the latter was being a coupe, it ain’t no Mx-5. And the power number might be higher but everyone including current and former owners like myself no it’s that damn torque dip that disappoints.
I'll pass. The 86 is great because it's a proper sports car with just enough practicality to be your only car. A convertible would compromise that.
Agree
Nah....Aesthetically I say new miata Looks aggressive sporty and this FT -86 kinda looks out of place.
I was so excited in 2012 that the coupe was a real thing I ordered a 2013 FRS. Was the first one our dealer got in, they wanted to keep it for a few days, but I pressed taking delivery the minute they got it. I’ve been slowly developing the car since. Mod list is embarrassing long, but focused on handling. I don’t think the car could live as a drop top. I the Miata is designed to be a roadster, the 86 platform would be so compromised. I installed many chassis braces, the difference was alarming.
Cause the GT-86 is already brilliant. And now that u have the wind in ur hair while going sideways is going to be beyond brilliant