Toyota Soarer

Toyota Soarer
Production 1981-2005
Assembly Motomachi, Japan
Susono, Shizuoka, Japan
Higashi Fuji, Japan
Layout FR layout

The Toyota Soarer was a personal luxury GT coupé sold by Toyota in Japan from 1981 to 2005. It débuted with the Z10 series, replacing the Mark II Coupe, and took the form of an angular two-door coupé. In 1986, the Z20 series was launched, based on the then new A70 Supra platform. In 1991, the third generation (Z30 series) Toyota Soarer premiered in Japan, while its Lexus equivalent, the SC 300/400 débuted in the US market. While externally identical to the Lexus SC, the Z30 series Soarer lineup offered different powertrain specifications and multiple unique vehicle configurations. In 2001, Toyota introduced a convertible-only successor which appeared in Japan as the fourth generation (Z40 series) Toyota Soarer, and elsewhere as the Lexus SC 430. In contrast to previous series, the fourth generation Soarer and Lexus SC were based on a single model and were largely equivalent. In 2005, following the introduction of Lexus in Japan, the Soarer name and emblem were discontinued and the Z40 became the Lexus SC 430 in common with worldwide markets.

In its home market the Soarer was a competitor to the Nissan Leopard, and Mazda Cosmo coupes. All versions of the Soarer featured a unique winged lion emblem (often mistakenly called a Griffin) as the logo throughout the vehicle. Due to the compliance of Japanese external dimension and engine displacement regulations, the first and second generation models were classified as "compacts" which gave Japanese buyers tax saving advantages.


Contents

Z10 series (1981-1985)

First generation

Production 1981-1985
Body style 2-door GT coupe
Engine 2.0 L 1G-EU I-6 SOHC
2.0 L 1G-GEU I-6 DOHC
2.0 L M-TEU I-6 SOHC
2.8 L 5M-GEU I-6 DOHC
3.0 L 6M-GEU I-6 DOHC
Transmission 5 speed manual
4 speed automatic
Wheelbase 2,660 mm (104.7 in)
Length 4,655 mm (183.3 in)
Width 1,695 mm (66.7 in)
Height 1,360 mm (53.5 in)
Curb weight 1,310 kg (2,900 lb)

The Soarer made its first appearance at the 1980 Osaka International Motor Show with the name "EX-8", and the Z10 series Toyota Soarer was produced from February 1981 to December 1985, with 2.0L, 2.8L or 3.0L DOHC I-6 variants. The first generation Soarer debuted with a rear-wheel drive configuration[1] based on the A60 Supra. It boasted numerous technological items, such as touchscreen computer controlled air conditioning climate control (on all models excepting base models which featured standard fan/heater controls), digital speed and tachometer display using LED (that were differentiated between models), among other electronic features.

The suspension utilized Macpherson type front struts with trailing arm type IRS in the rear. The vehicle also came with self-diagnosis maintenance reminders.

There were a number of different engines available.

Early M-TEU powered MZ10s were different in some regards to later MZ10s. Some of the difference are listed below.

The Z10 series Toyota Soarer was honored as Japan's Car of the Year for the 1981-1982 model years.

The MZ12 was equipped with the following features:


Z20 series (1986–1991)

Second generation
Production 1986–1991
Body style 2-door GT coupe (GZ20, MZ20)
2-door convertible (MZ20 Aerocabin)
Engine 2.0 L 1G-E I-6 SOHC
2.0 L 1G-GE I-6 DOHC
2.0 L 1G-FE I-6 DOHC
2.0 L 1G-GTE I-6 DOHC turbo
3.0 L 7M-GTE I-6 DOHC turbo
Transmission 5 speed manual R154 (7M-GTE)
5 speed manual W57/W58 (1G-GE/GTE)
4 speed A340E Automatic
Wheelbase 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Length 4,675 mm (184.1 in)
Width 1,725 mm (67.9 in)
Height 1,335 mm (52.6 in)
Curb weight 1,510 kg (3,300 lb)

The Z20 series Toyota Soarer was produced from January 1986 to April 1991, and was available in several variants. The styling of the second generation Soarer is similar of that of the X80 series Cressida, Mark II, Chaser and Cresta.[1] The Soarer shared its platform with the newly introduced A70 series Supra.

In 1988, TOM'S released a limited model package named the C5. The 7M-GTE in the Tom's C5 Soarer saw the power upgrades similar to those seen in the Turbo-A Supra of the same year.

In April 1989 a limited 500 unit production of the Aerocabin version was also available. This came with only 2 seats and an electric folding roof. The Aerocabin came with the same specs as the GT-Limited and were only available with the 7M-GTE engine, 4sp automatic transmission, tan leather interior and pearl paint.

In 1988 Soarer Z2 got restyling -grill and rear taillights changed and minor interior changes (climate control, dash). Other than that engines were improved:

Also from that time, M-series engines got oil squirters to cool pistons.

Unlike the A70, the Z20 did not pick up the 2.5L twin turbo 1JZ-GTE. However all models built from May 1989 including the Aerocabin did have a revised crossmember making the 1JZ-GTE conversion easier.

The following table provided courtesy of http://www.z20soarer.org/forums.

model code chassis code grade year engine transmission weight (kg) turbo notes
GZ20 HCMEE 2.0 VZ 1986.1-1987.12 1G-EU W57 5 speed M/T 1300 N/A 87.1- +10 kg
HCPEE A42DL 4 speed A/T 1310
HCMGE 2.0 VX 1986.1-1988.12 W57 5 speed M/T 1320 88.1- +20 kg
HCPGE A42DE 4 speed A/T 1330
HCMGK 1989.1-1991.4 1G-FE W57 5 speed M/T 1350 ESC
HCPGK A42DE 4 speed A/T 1360
HCMVF 2.0 GT 1986.1-1991.4 1G-GEU W55 5 speed M/T 1330 87.1- +10 kg, 88.1- +30 kg and ESC
HCPVF A42DE 4 speed A/T 1340 89.1- A340E 4 speed A/T
HCMVZ 2.0 GT-TWIN TURBO 1G-GTE W57 5 speed M/T 1400 Twin CT-12 87.1- +10 kg and ESC , 88.1- +20 kg 88.1- W58 5 speed M/T
HCPVZ A340E 4 speed A/T 1420
HCMZZ 2.0 GT-TWIN TURBO L 1988.1-1991.4 W58 5 speed M/T 1430 ESC
HCPZZ A340E 4 speed A/T 1450
MZ20 HCMZZ 3.0 GT 1987.1-1991.4 7M-GTE R154 5 speed M/T 1490 CT-26 87.1- +20 kg, 88.1-+ 20 kg, 89.1- +10 kg
HCPVZ 1986.1-1991.4 A340E 4 speed A/T 1470
HJPVZ 3.0 GT AEROCABIN 1989.4 A340E 4 speed A/T 1610 Limited run of 500 units
HCMZZ 3.0 GT LIMITED 1987.1-1991.4 R154 5 speed M/T 1520 87.1- +20 kg 88.1- +10 kg
HCPZZ 1986.1-1991.4 A340E 4 speed A/T 1500
MZ21 HCMZZ 1987.1-1991.4 R154 5 speed M/T 1520 Air suspension
HCPZZ 1986.1-1991.4 A340E 4 speed A/T 1520
ESC (optional) = +10 kg, Sunroof (optional on all models except the aerocabin)= +20 kg

Z30 series (1991-2000)

Third generation
Production 1991-2000
Body style 2-door GT coupe
Engine 2.5 L 1JZ-GTE I-6 DOHC turbo
3.0 L 2JZ-GE I-6 DOHC
4.0 L 1UZ-FE V8 DOHC
Transmission 5 speed manual
4 speed automatic
Wheelbase 2,690 mm (105.9 in)
Length 4,860–4,890 mm (191.3–192.5 in)
Width 1,790–1,800 mm (70.5–70.9 in)
Height 1,330–1,350 mm (52.4–53.1 in)
Curb weight 1,540–1,730 kg (3,400–3,800 lb)
Further information: Lexus SC 300 / SC 400

In 1990, following the successful launch of its upscale Lexus division outside of Japan, Toyota commissioned its California design studio Calty to develop a new luxury coupe. In 1991, this vehicle debuted in the U.S. as the Lexus SC 300/400. In the same year, the third generation Toyota Soarer debuted in Japan as the Z30 series, replacing the Z20 series in that market. The Z30 series Soarer shared the body and key components with the Lexus SC, but featured different interior features, powertrain configurations, and other performance enhancements.

This new Soarer continued some of the features that Toyota had pioneered on the earlier models, such as digital dash instrumentation and integrated car systems control via the in-dash EMV touchscreen. For example, it was now one of the first cars in the world to feature factory GPS navigation via cd-rom, continuing the Toyota/Lexus tradition of not only equalling but surpassing the established luxury brands in price, quality and features. It had a luxury feel to it, yet the 2.5GT twin turbo model in particular was truly a very powerful sports car as well. Not surprising though, given its 1JZ-GTE engine was used for the MKIII Supra as well. Although the chassis is more akin the MKIV Supra with suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and engine pieces interchangeable for the most part.

The Toyota Soarers made from the years 1991-2000 were offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission for all models. In addition, the JZZ30 Soarer could be had with a 5-speed manual transmission. All models were available with a Torsen torque-sensing differential. Unlike their US Lexus equivalents however, the 30-series Soarer lineup never received a 5-speed automatic, and only the six cylinder versions received variable valve timing (VVTi) engines, in 1996. Also, the UZZ30 (equivalent to the Lexus SC400) was only sold from 1991 to 1993, and the JZZ31 (equivalent to the Lexus SC300) was not introduced to the Japanese market until 1994.

Styling-wise, the Soarer received only minor changes to (e.g. rear lights, front grille and front/rear bumpers as well as the addition of side-skirts) during its 9-year production run, a testament to the original design.

Starting in 1997, the Soarer was used as a high speed patrol car in multiple Japanese prefectures, using the 2.5GT trim with a 5-speed manual transmission.

In recent years, the Z30 Soarer/Lexus SC300 has been rapidly gaining popularity as a platform in the grassroots and professional motorsport of drifting. Despite being a bit heavier than the more common platforms such as the Nissan 240sx, Mazda RX7, and the Toyota AE86, it's long wheelbase and deceptively nimble handling, due to its MKIV Toyota Supra heritage, make it a startlingly robust competitor. It shares its mechanics almost universally with the MKIV Toyota Supra, and thus parts are easy to obtain.

Z30 series Soarer models

model year engine power (kW) torque (Nm) turbo transmissions notes
JZZ30 1991-96 1JZ-GTE (2.5 L I6) 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) 363 N·m (268 lb·ft) twin parallel manual, auto
1997–2000 1JZ-GTE (2.5 L I6), VVT-i 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) 378 N·m (279 lb·ft) single manual, auto
JZZ31 1994-96 2JZ-GE (3.0 L I6) 165 kW (224 PS; 221 hp) 285 N·m (210 lb·ft) none auto equivalent to Lexus SC300
1997–2000 2JZ-GE (3.0 L I6), VVT-i 169 kW (230 PS; 227 hp) 304 N·m (224 lb·ft) none auto equivalent to Lexus SC300
UZZ30 1991-93 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) 191 kW (260 PS; 256 hp) 353 N·m (260 lb·ft) none auto equivalent to Lexus SC400
UZZ31 1991-97 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) 191/195 353/363 none auto airbag suspension, "EMV" TV/touchscreen system
UZZ32 1991-96 1UZ-FE (4.0 V8) 191/195 353/363 none auto active suspension, four-wheel steering, "EMV" TV/touchscreen system

JZZ30 Soarer

The JZZ30 was the only model sold continuously from the introduction of the 30 series in 1991 until production ceased in 2000. As the sportiest model in the range it was also the only one available with a manual transmission. Like other models in the range there were two different equipment grades available, the base GT-T and the better-equipped GT-TL which added electric seats, wood trim, cruise control and Toyota's TEMS electronic damper adjustment to the list of standard features.

The JZZ30 was powered by the 2.5 litre 1JZ-GTE turbocharged engine. Initially featuring two identical small turbos running together (unlike the sequential twin turbo systems of the Supra and Mazda RX-7, for example), it officially produced 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) and 363 N·m (268 lb·ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. This was in keeping with the Japanese Manufacturers' advertised power limit agreement, however real-world power outputs were somewhat higher. In August 1996 the engine received Toyota's variable valve timing system (VVTi) and in conjunction with a single, more efficient turbocharger, produced much better high and mid-range torque (in fact, 378 N·m (279 lb·ft) at just 2400 rpm - see The Toyota JZ Engine Guide below) while still producing the "official" 206 kW (280 PS; 276 hp) of power and better fuel economy.

JZZ31 Soarer

While the Lexus SC300 was available from the start of the new series' US introduction in 1991, the equivalent Japan-market Soarer model — the JZZ31 — was not introduced until 1994, where it became the new base model Soarer.

The JZZ31 was powered by the 3 litre 2JZ-GE engine which initially produced 165 kW (224 PS; 221 hp) at 5800 rpm and 285 N·m (210 lb·ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. Like the JZZ30 the engine also received Toyota's VVTi system in 1997 which increased output to 169 kW (230 PS; 227 hp) at 6000 rpm and 304 N·m (224 lb·ft) at 4000 rpm while simultaneously improving fuel economy. While the SC300 in the US market became a popular Lexus for performance upgrades due to its shared engine with the MKIV (JZA80) Supra, the JZZ31 Soarer was somewhat overlooked since unlike the SC300 it was never offered in manual gearbox form and had neither the performance appeal of the turbocharged JZZ30 nor the luxury and equipment of the UZZ31/32 models.

However with the increasing cost (and slowing sales) of the V8 Soarer GT-L models in the mid-late '90s, the JZZ31 would remain in production along with the JZZ30 until the end of the 30 Series in 2000.

UZZ30, UZZ31 and UZZ32 Soarer

The UZZ30 was introduced in Japan as the 'base' model of the V8 powered 30 series lineup. Fitted with the same 4.0 litre quad cam V8 as the UZZ31/32, it benefited in the performance stakes due to its considerably lighter weight. The UZZ30 used a standard Tokiko coilover suspension setup, basic stereo system, manual steering column, and very few electronic aids. Velour fabric seats were standard with leather as an option. No power or memory seats were available. As the car was substantially lighter due to the exclusion of all the 'luxury fruit' they are a considered a driver's car, with good power, handling and braking.

The UZZ30 series Soarer was used as the base vehicle for the Lexus SC400 exported into the United States, although to satisfy local markets, a comprehensive listing of luxury options were offered. Local Japanese Soarers all came with an electronic dashboard which used an internal mirror to display the dashboard holographically. It really is a beautiful design and has stood the test of time, yet this was never offered on a USA spec model. These cars came with a standard dash layout comprising round dials and lit needles similar to the LS400 Lexus.

The UZZ31 and UZZ32 Soarers were the luxury GT versions of the range, with substantially more features and equipment than the 6 cylinder models and the Lexus SC300/400. The EMV (Electro Multi Vision) touchscreen system which was pioneered in the Z10 and Z20 Soarers was again available and provided a screen with television, GPS navigation, diagnostics, car computer, reversing camera and touch control of all functions of the climate control and sophisticated 7-speaker (with subwoofer) balanced-signal audio system with 12-disc CD stacker and digital signal processing.

Both models and the base-spec UZZ30 were powered by Toyota's acclaimed 1UZ-FE quad-cam all-alloy 4 litre V8. While producing marginally less power and torque than the turbocharged JZZ30 (191 kW (260 PS; 256 hp) at 5400 rpm, 353 N·m (260 lb·ft) at 4600 rpm) the V8, called the 4.0GT-L was renowned for its smoothness and refinement. Although receiving a minor update in 1995 which improved responsiveness and bumped outputs to 195 kW (265 PS; 261 hp) / 363 N·m (268 lb·ft), production of the V8-equipped Soarers ended before the powerplant received VVTi which substantially increased outputs in the Lexus SC400 and other models. However, supercharged and turbocharged modifications are becoming increasingly common given the strength and durability of the engine, and power outputs up to double the factory levels are being seen on internally-standard engines.

The UZZ31 featured a driver-adjustable air suspension system that had two settings for both ride height and damper stiffness. The air 'bag' pressure was controlled by an electric pump mounted at the front of the car. Also featured on the UZZ31 series were a host of electronic goodies including automatic headlights, speed-sensitive wipers, electric controlled and heated seats with two-position memory, electronic collapsible steering column with memory, reversing camera, cabin air purifying system, touch screen TV with 12 stack CD player, touch screen SatNav, and a full on board computer diagnostic system which would output to the TV display unit.

The UZZ32 was the top of the line 30 series featuring all of the options available on the UZZ31 but with the added feature of four wheel steering and a complex hydro-pneumatic, computer-controlled active suspension system. This did away with conventional springs and anti-roll (stabiliser) bars in favour of hydraulic struts controlled by an array of sensors (such as yaw velocity sensors, vertical G sensors, height sensors, wheel speed sensors, longitudinal and lateral G sensors) that detected cornering, acceleration and braking forces. The system worked well and gave an unusually controlled yet smooth ride with no body roll. However, the additional weight of the system affected straight-line performance somewhat so a re-mapped ECU was introduced to allow better 'off line' performance. The car was costly to produce and at close to 8million Yen in 1995,[2] expensive to buy. As a result, only 873 UZZ32's were made and are now collectors items in the UK and Australia. The UZZ32 Soarer became the second shortest production run model for Toyota following the 2000GT in the late 60's.

Z40 series (2001-2005)

Fourth generation
Production 2001–2005 (renamed in 2006 as Lexus SC)
Body style 2-door GT coupé convertible
Engine 4.3 L 3UZ-FE V8
Transmission 5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic (renamed model)
Wheelbase 2,620 mm (103.1 in)
Length 4,515 mm (177.8 in)
Width 1,825 mm (71.9 in)
Height 1,355 mm (53.3 in)
Curb weight 1,730 kg (3,800 lb)
Further information: Lexus SC 430

The 40 series Soarer model was largely identical to its Lexus equivalent, sold outside Japan as the Lexus SC 430 since 2001. The Z40 series Soarer 430SCV featured a hardtop which could fold into the boot of the car, in the fashion of the contemporary Mercedes-Benz SL. The coupe was equipped with the 3UZ-FE VVTi (variable valve timing) 4.3 litre V8 motor, as was available in the Lexus LS 430 luxury sedan. It produced 208 kW (283 PS; 279 hp) and 430 N·m (320 lb·ft) of torque. This enabled the coupe to accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6 seconds. The shared body style of the Z40 series Soarer/SC 430 was developed by Toyota designers at design studios in France and Japan. Compared with the Z30 series, some observers generally considered the fourth generation a retreat in visual style due to its more compact and top heavy appearance. As a result it had lost the long sleek look previously seen and admired greatly in the Z30 series models.

With the Z40 series Soarer, design and production synergies culminated in the development of a single shared design configuration for both the Soarer and Lexus models, unlike the previous generations. The rise of Lexus as Toyota's premium worldwide marque also contributed to the design focus on the Lexus model configuration rather than a separate Toyota-branded series of Soarer coupes. On July 26, 2005, Lexus was introduced in Japan with the 2006 SC 430 TSOOH in its lineup. The debut of Lexus and the SC 430 coincided with the conclusion of Toyota Soarer sales.

References

  1. ^ a b "ˇ m k i v". Intellexual.net. 2004-10-27. http://www.intellexual.net/faq.html#001. Retrieved 2009-04-28. 
  2. ^ http://specs.amayama.com/toyota/soarer/1995_5/

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