The terms refer to essentially the same vehicle, a compact, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car co-developed by Toyota and Subaru. The Scion FR-S was marketed under Toyota’s now-defunct Scion brand in North America, while the Toyota 86 was sold concurrently under the Toyota banner in other markets and, later, in North America after Scion’s discontinuation. Both represent the same core vehicle design and specifications.
The significance of this vehicle lies in its focus on driving enjoyment and affordability, offering a raw, connected driving experience often missing in more modern, complex sports cars. Its accessible price point allowed a broader range of enthusiasts to experience a rear-wheel-drive platform, and its modifications potential fueled a vibrant aftermarket scene. Historically, it marked Toyota’s return to a more driver-focused sports car after a period of prioritizing other vehicle segments.
