While this pair are largely the same, there are some very subtle differences. Toyota fitted softer front and stiffer rear springs than Subaru, which means the GT86 is a little more inclined to oversteer at low speeds. For the BRZ, Subaru wanted to focus more on turn-in to corners and stability.
Many cars will now have new wheels and tyres
The standard Michelin Primacy tyres have come in for as much praise as they have complaints. Some love the ability to let the car oversteer in a very predictable manner, while others find the limited grip frustrating. Many cars will now use different tyres to standard.
Lighter and wider alloy wheels are another regular upgrade for the Subaru and Toyota. A rim with 225-section tyres is reckoned to be the best combination for retaining the car's fun driving character with improved grip.
The VSC stability control is ideal for daily driving and can be switched off for track use. However, some owners have noted it doesn't completely disengage when the button is pressed, so it can intervene when not wanted. There is a way to fully disengage the VSC for track and drift driving.
Brakes are fine unless power seriously upgraded
As modifying the BRZ and GT86 is very popular, don't be surprised to find cars with lowered and stiffened suspension. Ask to see receipts for the parts used and who carried out the work. Good quality kits from Eibach, Tein or supplied by Fensport are worth having if these are upgrades you'd want anyway. A set of 20-millimetre wheel spacers is another common fit to make the wheels fill the arches more fully.
As for the brakes, the standard set-up works well on the road and is able to deal with modified cars up to around 300hp. Beyond that or for cars used on track days regularly, uprated pads will be the first choice to offer more retardation and feel. And if even more is required, a set of K Sport 330mm front discs with eight-piston calipers is a tried and tested route for existing owners.
PHer's view:
"People knock the standard Primacy tyres for being rubbish. They're aren't the best but are really fun because they let you skid at low speed. You don't have to be travelling at warp speed to get the car moving about. They can be a little loose in the damp though. Worth being alert if you turn the traction control off."
Charlie Gledhill
