Here's some VERY promising insight for those awaiting the Toyota FT-86/Scion FR-S. Moto Miwa, a pioneer in the American AE86 scene and founder of Club4AG recently had a four-hour discussion with Tetsuya Tada, chief engineer on Toyota's rear-drive sports car project.
Of course Moto isn't allowed to spill all the beans on what he's learned, but the thread he posted on Club4AG should be enough to get ANYONE excited about this car. He mentions that the car will be identical (save for badging) in all markets, and that although the engine is based on the EJ20, it will otherwise be totally unique to this car. He also mentions the involvement of Toyota's long-time friends at Yamaha in tuning the car's exhaust system. It's also being built heavily with customizers and racers in mind, right down to the dashboard being designed for easy roll cage installation.
Just look at what Moto is saying about the car – "Never before has such a low-cost niche-car seen so much research, so much development budget, and resourced with so many talents."
Head over to Club4AG and check out Moto's thread. Just don't blame me if you find yourself heading to your local dealer to drop a deposit!
-Mike Garrett