Subaru BRZ Cosworth | PH Auction Block
The Toyobaru twins weren't quite perfect - this one gets an awful lot closer
How times have changed. As recently as 2012 there was much consternation about the fact that the then-new Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ cost £24,995. Never mind that it was a front-engined, rear-drive sports car on a bespoke platform - there were faster hot hatches available for the money. And when said hot hatches included cars as good as the Megane 265, it was easy to understand the argument. More affordable models would follow - the PH long-term Primo was £22,495 - but the asking price would always hang over both cars. Just imagine the excitement now, in these barren times, if there was a new naturally aspirated sports car launched at anywhere near £25,000.
Or don’t, and simply remember instead the furore surrounding the GR86. Not much more expensive than the GT, better to look at and better to drive, it was a superb sports car. And proved that demand definitely still exists for such a thing. Or at least it does when supply is very limited and the price affordable.
Understandably, given the reputation and the restricted numbers, GR values remain strong. But for those who want to realise the potential of the platform without spending the best part of £30k, there is an alternative: the modified GT86 or BRZ. It’s a stunning example of the latter we have here; having methodically addressed every concern of the standard Subaru, it promises to be a very special car indeed.
The flat-four engine was always a weak spot (you may have heard), both in terms of outright wallop and the sound. This one, with a Cosworth supercharger and Milltek exhaust, ought to address both those problems. This BRZ is now producing 280hp and 230lb ft, the latter in particular surely transformative for everyday usability.
And that’s just the start of the upgrades. The braking system now features new discs, braided hoses, racier pads and better cooling; there are Whiteline bushes for the diff and gearbox, plus a rear anti-roll bar from the GR. The very smart Speedline Corse wheels sit on Michelin tyres, and the whole car presents as a fantastic road and track package. There was already plenty to enjoy about a standard model, despite what the naysayers would quip; this supercharged version should make for a better BRZ across the board.
It’s also been looked after obsessively. And we don’t use that term lightly: it’s really hard to imagine a better cared for BRZ anywhere. It hasn’t been used on salted roads with the current owner (who’s had it since 2022), and has received regular Lanoguard treatments to protect the underside. Oil changes have taken place every 2,500 miles, it’s been garaged throughout, and it’s double declutched when cold to help with the notchiness that’s always been an 86/BRZ problem. It really has been absolutely doted on, and promises many more years of fun behind the wheel. So best maintain the same level of upkeep, right?
These engines can make a lot of power with forced induction (400+) but the key is restraint. If the map gives it too much torque too soon, the engine won t last long. Based on the figures this one should be in the relatively safe zone. Cosworth probably know what they’re doing.
This is a lovely looking BRZ except it's the wrong colour. In my brain Subarus should be blues and greys while that's clearly Toyota red.
Certainly a little more power can't harm, but for me 200 hp is enough for the type of roads I use, remember the Sierra Cosworth was the same power (admittedly more torque) and it was plenty.
Certainly a little more power can't harm, but for me 200 hp is enough for the type of roads I use, remember the Sierra Cosworth was the same power (admittedly more torque) and it was plenty.
It did make me wonder if some had escaped out the bonnet like the old AE86 ad
The GR version that followed was much feistier
Certainly a little more power can't harm, but for me 200 hp is enough for the type of roads I use, remember the Sierra Cosworth was the same power (admittedly more torque) and it was plenty.
This is a lovely looking BRZ except it's the wrong colour. In my brain Subarus should be blues and greys while that's clearly Toyota red.
This car looks like a fantastic buy for whoever gets it.
Certainly a little more power can't harm, but for me 200 hp is enough for the type of roads I use, remember the Sierra Cosworth was the same power (admittedly more torque) and it was plenty.
It did make me wonder if some had escaped out the bonnet like the old AE86 ad
The GR version that followed was much feistier
You'll have endless fun that way..
It did make me wonder if some had escaped out the bonnet like the old AE86 ad
Later that year I bought a BMW 325ti that had only 192bhp but felt way quicker.
But if the power delivery has been smoothed out on this one it sounds like it could be great fun. I really like the red too, although I also loved the orange GT86s.
Car let down by the standard engine and a DBW throttle setup with just enough delay to infuriate me. Maybe I’m being unfair, but it’s been replaced with a 27yr old Impreza STI, a cable throttle car with muscular mid range AND higher redline. Haven’t looked back. That said, I’d love a go in this
to feel the improvements. Second car Smart shopping I’d say
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