Updated Specs and Year Changes for MKIII

[Jeff Lange]

I've taken the time to rewrite the FAQ about year changes and specs for the MKIII, since there is more info on years than is included in that FAQ.

Anyways here's what I put together:

Years of production: 1986.5 - 1992 (86 Model Supra was MA67 (MKII))
Chassis Code: MA70
Versions: Turbo (87+) and Non-Turbo

N/A Specs:

Horsepower: 200 @ 6200rpm
Torque: 188 ft-lbs
Weight: approx. 3400-3600
Engine: 7M-GE 2954cc
Transmission: W58
Injector Size: approx. 305 - 380cc, low impedance (high impedance 89+ models)
Spark Plugs: NGK BCPR5EP-11, Denso PQ16R
Compression: 9.2:1
Cylinder Pressure: 156
Fuel Pressure: 33-40psi

Turbo Specs:

Horsepower: 230 @ 5600rpm (232 89+ models)
Torque: 246 ft-lbs (256 89+ models)
Weight: approx. 3500-3700
Engine: 7M-GTE 2954cc
Transmission: R154
Boost (M/T): 5.5 - 7.5psi
Boost (A/T): 4.8 - 6.0psi
Turbo: Toyota CT-26
Spark Plugs: NGK BCPR6EP-N8, Denso PQ20R
Injector Size: approx. 440cc, low impedance
Compression: 8.4:1
Cylinder Pressure: 142
Fuel Pressure: 33-40psi
Fuel Cutoff: approx. 10-13psi
Intercooler Efficiency: 3psi drop @ 6.8psi


Wheels/Tires: 16x7" Rims with 225/50-16 Tires




1986.5:

Introduced halfway through year, replacing the 1986 MKII Supra
Only available as a non-turbo model
Hardtop was originally only offered
Targa top available starting in 04/86
LSD, headlight washers are a part of the "Sport Package"
TEMS optional
"Super Monitor" Optional, most cars not equipped with it have the wiring for it, however not all
ABS is now an option


1987:

Stereo changes, has different plugs on the back (All Toyota vehicles got the newer plugs in 87)
First year of the Turbo model
N/A model carries over essentially unchanged
Turbo model gets rear 1-piece spoiler, turbo badging, "Sport Package" is standard, gets 3.91:1 rear end gearing, opposed to the N/A's 4.30:1
Small light added to driver's side power window switch



1988:

Essential carry-over from 1987
Door handles no longer need to be held up to lock door
Redesigned rear 3rd brake light on rear spoiler
Interior cloth material changed
Slight changes made to the climate controller, radio, and left-side buttons (made slightly darker)
Seat belt guides added to front seats
Cloth sunvisors replace vinyl ones on hardtops
Cloth headliner replaces vinyl one on hardtop



1989:

MKIII recieves it's first major update, both on the interior and exterior
Redesigned mouldings (different shape, as well as being entirely plastic)
New rear tail-lights (3-piece, goes all the way across the rear) (non-European Countries Only)
New 3-piece rear spoiler
New mirrors on the doors (reshaped)
New steering wheel (cruise on/off switch moved to the wheel, switch replaced with coin holder)
Door handle shape changed (became slightly more rounded)
New front bumper cover (including new fog lights)
New front turn signals (not as wide)
New front grilles (2 as opposed to a single one)
Cup holders added underneath the center console lid
New climate control
New steering column stalks (turn signals/headlights/wipers)
Switches on left side of steering column changed from silver colour to black
Power window switches updated
Rear seatbelts are changed to shoulder belts
Front seatbelts get updated (the top mount plastic is redesigned)
Rear speakers get updated (2 extra are added in the rear panels beside the seats)
Instrument cluster updated (orange part on needle removed, less lines on gauges, speedo up to 260km/h - from 240km/h, lights are now completely blacked out unless lit up)
Shift boot, shift knob, e-brake handle, steering wheel, and steering column become black
Updated stereo to match other new interior components
Seats get extra power assist (tilt back/forward - changed from the old knob on side)
Turbo rear end gets changed to 3.73:1 gearing, opposed to the old 3.91:1
N/A Non-LSD rear end get downgraded to 2-pinion versus the previous 4-pinion model (US Only)
Headlight washers no longer an option (US Only)
Horsepower up to 232hp (from 230hp), torque up to 254ft-lbs (from 246ft-lbs)
Halfway through 1989, the engine crossmember changes, as does the wiring harness and engine mounts
Progressive speed-based power steering added
Wiring for "Super Monitor" no longer included, and it is no longer an option
"White Package" now available, includes white trim pieces, and white wheels, on a white car
Strut manufacturer changes
Car drops in height by 12mm (about 1/2")
Rear subframe receives 2 extra braces
Late models have completely standardized body harness, with wiring for every option (NA/Turbo/Manual/Auto/TEMS) -- body harness, not engine harness
Aluminum replaces steel on the brake master cylinder
Stretchy mesh pockets on rear of front seats removed
Suit hooks added above front seatbelts
"Turbo" emblem moved from back panel to moulding (Adhesive Type)
"Shift Lock Release" button added to shifter (Auto Trans Only)
Can no longer remove key from ignition without shift lever in "Park"
Steering column covering plastic changes to accommodate lock change (Auto Trans Only)



1990:

Crank changed over to fully balanced 7M crank, redline dropped to 6250 from 6500
Steering wheel changes to a 4-spoke design with SRS airbag (cruise moved to stalk) (US Only)
Steering column covering plastic changes to accomidated airbag changes (US Only)
Progressive power steering electronics get revised
Foglights now on all the time (driving lights) (Canada Only)
Larger transparent laminate area in front of rear wheel well to prevent chipping
Cloth pattern on seat fabric again updated with different spacing on the lines



1991:

N/A model dropped from lineup (Canada Only)
Heated seats added (Canada Only)
TEMS no longer an option (Canada Only)
Front speakers get updated to 6.5", and get a larger grille
5-spoke 16x7" rims replace the old 16x7" sawblades
Factory sunroof now an option
Subwoofer for stereo now an option (rare)
Square "Supra" emblem on nose replaced with new "T" Toyota logo
Power steering cooler added
All body trim is now the same colour as the body paint
Shadow Grey interior colour introduced (rare, closest to black you can get)
Teal exterior colour introduced
A lot of extra sound deadening material added
Extra coinholder introduced in 1989 replaced with dimmer switch
ABS now standard on Turbo models
"TOYOTA" name plate removed from the front driver's side grille



1992:

Steering wheel changes to a 4-spoke design with SRS airbag (cruise moved to stalk) (Canada Only)
Steering column covering plastic changes to accomidated airbag changes (Canada Only)
Automatic transmission shift points revised
New stereo system introduced
Remote keyless entry option added
Good Year Eagles become standard on turbos
Dark steel grey debuts as does dark green
Targa no longer available on N/A cars
Shadow grey leather surfaces changed from grey to black



There are also a few other changes made, but I'm not entirely sure when they happened:

Was the Security system optional on 86.5 and early 87 models?
When was the lighted driver's side keyhole added?





Let me know if there are any other changes that I've missed. Hopefully this can get moved to the FAQ forum as well.

[OneJoeZee]

only problem i see is that TEMS is not quite "standard". some turbo models got away without it

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by Joe-Turbo
only problem i see is that TEMS is not quite "standard". some turbo models got away without it

I think it depended on year though. I think it was made optional in 89, but I'm not entirely sure...

[OneJoeZee]

must have been cuz i dont have it. but i believe it was supposed to be standard on turbos and optional on NAs. i just have an oddball supra

[MelloBoy]

the little triangles behind the doors (that laminate sheet) became larger in 90

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by MelloBoy
the little triangles behind the doors (that laminate sheet) became larger in 90

pics?

(not quite sure what you are talking about, interior or exterior? :confused: )

[MelloBoy]

outside on the quarterpanel in front of the rear wheel well at the bottom?

[JonnyRedline]

Originally posted by Jeff Lange
Instrument cluster updated (less lines on gauges, speedo up to 260mph - from 240mph, lights are now completely blacked out unless lit up)


wow thats a fast supra!! hehe might wanna fix that ;)

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by MelloBoy
outside on the quarterpanel in front of the rear wheel well at the bottom?

Not sure exactly what you are talking about still...

1988:

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/10/web/346000-346999/346978_74_full.jpg

1990:

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/3/web/519000-519999/519262_9_full.jpg


It looks the same in front of the rear wheel well to me...

[ARTSUPRA]

The rear skirt has a protective transparent laminate on top of the paint, to protect the paint from chipping, later models have a larger laminate piace which covers a larger area.

Hmmm I never seriously tought about it untill now:D

[Jeff Lange]

Oh, so it's not really something that you can see?

[screaminglemon]

ahhh KEWL!! that silver '90 above is my car now.

btw, its an oddball. turbo, no TEMS, and no turbo emblems/badges. does have the factory turbo timer (sticker) on the inside driver door though. oh, and as far as i can tell, its actually a '89 not a '90.

[Jeff Lange]

Only real badge I guess is the rear turbo badge.

Someone could have removed that easily enough :) Nice car though.

[conundrum07]

You might make mention that the auto turbo supras dont actually run 6.8psi. The are more around 4psi.

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by conundrum07
You might make mention that the auto turbo supras dont actually run 6.8psi. The are more around 4psi.

Done

[corbeledg]

wow, good info! Thanks! :thumbsup:

[OneWingedAngel]

You might add that 88 was the first year for the seat belt holders on the sides of drivers and passenger seats.

Edit: And in 1990 the 6M crank was replaced with the 7M heavier/more balanced crank lowering the redline to 6200.

[sammydafish]

in 1992 Remote keyless entry was an available option.

in late 89 front body wiring harness standardised to be the same for all cars (has plugs for every option NA/Turbo/Manual/Auto/TEMS) note this is the body harness, not the engine harness.

I don't think TEMS was ever standard on any year. It was always an option. It was just a popular option on Turbo cars. I've seen many turbo cars of all years without TEMS.

[suprafst1]

What is the "super Monitor"?

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by suprafst1
What is the "super Monitor"?

http://www.deluxeportal.com/personal/supra/interior_05_04_04/interior4.jpg

I'll update it with the seat belt holder, crank info, and TEMS stuff

[paddlenbike]

1989+ cars sit 12 mm lower (1/2"), not a full inch.

[MelloBoy]

mk3 - longblock weighs 207kg
mk3.5 - longblock weighs 208kg
attributed to crank i believe

mk3 - Engine Size: 817mm(l) x 665mm(w) x 688mm(h)
mk3.5 - Engine Size:845mm(l) x 665mm(w) x 690mm(h)


89+ -alumite patination of the pistons to improve durability and heat resistance.

mk3 - front rotors = 277mm x 22mm
mk3.5 - front rotors = 302mm x 18mm ??? this might be a misprint in one of my documents...

[conundrum07]

Originally posted by MelloBoy
attributed to crank i believe


Good call. Somehwere in 89, the crank was changed from the 6M crank to the heavier, better ballanced (dual counterwrights vs single i think) 7M crank. Also the reason for the redline decrease from 6500 to 6250.

[KermitTheFrayer]

What about me I have a change holder and I have cruise control on/off on dash :)

[BlackWidTan]

hey jeff lange did your car come with the 89 and up spoiler or did you put that on. I was wondering if that was part of the cross changes you mentioned on your car.


Neal

[MelloBoy]

Originally posted by conundrum07
Good call. Somehwere in 89, the crank was changed from the 6M crank to the heavier, better ballanced (dual counterwrights vs single i think) 7M crank. Also the reason for the redline decrease from 6500 to 6250.

look at the dimensions of the motor, though...the mk3.5 7M is larger than the mk3 7m....

[Mike 92LX]

1988
Buttons on radio and dimmer switch are darker to match climate controller
Cloth sunvisors replace vinyl ones on hardtops
White package debuted late in 1988


1989
Buttons on dimmer are now black and dimmer switch itself is black not grey

Aluminum replaces steel on the brake master cylinder
Side mirrors are different
Sport package is not longer standard on turbos(ie headlight squirters and TEMS)

1992
Good Year Eagles become standard on turbos
Dark steel grey debuts as does dark green.
Targa no longer available on n/a cars

[OneWingedAngel]

Originally posted by MelloBoy
mk3 - longblock weighs 207kg
mk3.5 - longblock weighs 208kg
attributed to crank i believe



Originally posted by conundrum07
Good call. Somehwere in 89, the crank was changed from the 6M crank to the heavier, better ballanced (dual counterwrights vs single i think) 7M crank. Also the reason for the redline decrease from 6500 to 6250.

Sorry guys, beat you both to it.:D

MelloBoy, where did you get the info on the 7M being larger? I dont buy it.

[upgradedsupra]

Originally posted by Jeff Lange
I think it depended on year though. I think it was made optional in 89, but I'm not entirely sure...

My car had no tems in it!!! :D

I can't stand them.

Duane

[MelloBoy]

one wing
a comprehensive book containing all the detailed specs of A70 supra and A80 supras from land of the rising sun :P

[conundrum07]

Originally posted by OneWingedAngel
Sorry guys, beat you both to it.:D



Ah, I didnt see that you edited your earlier post.

[OneWingedAngel]

Originally posted by MelloBoy
one wing
a comprehensive book containing all the detailed specs of A70 supra and A80 supras from land of the rising sun :P

So where are the measurements taken from? The short block, or entire engine assembly? I just find it hard to believe toyota would make an entire new block to make it a few cm longer and change no internals.

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by Mike 92LX
1988
Buttons on radio and dimmer switch are darker to match climate controller
Cloth sunvisors replace vinyl ones on hardtops
White package debuted late in 1988


1989
Buttons on dimmer are now black and dimmer switch itself is black not grey

Aluminum replaces steel on the brake master cylinder
Side mirrors are different
Sport package is not longer standard on turbos(ie headlight squirters and TEMS)

1992
Good Year Eagles become standard on turbos
Dark steel grey debuts as does dark green.
Targa no longer available on n/a cars

I already had a few of those in the original post, including the dimmer buttons, and mirrors. Also the white package debuted in 1988, but it was an 89 model. All of my changes are for model years.


hey jeff lange did your car come with the 89 and up spoiler or did you put that on. I was wondering if that was part of the cross changes you mentioned on your car.


Neal

My car came 100% like every other 1988, all the other changes were made by either me or the preivious owner. (The spoiler and mirrors were done by the previous owner).

[Mike 92LX]

"Also the white package debuted in 1988, but it was an 89 model. "

No it debuted in 88 on 88 models. I have two in my garage now.

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by Mike 92LX
"Also the white package debuted in 1988, but it was an 89 model. "

No it debuted in 88 on 88 models. I have two in my garage now.

:D Oh really? Cool! Got any pics?

:cool:

[Mike 92LX]

No but I can try to get some.

[Mike 92LX]

86 vs 87 n/a's had different radios and rear plugs-sorry forgot.

[Jeff Lange]

rear plugs? plugs for the radio?

[Mike 92LX]

Yes..

[FUBAR]

Jeff:
1986.5:

Introduced halfway through year, replacing the 1986 MKII Supra
Only available as a non-turbo model
Targa top available
LSD, headlight washers are a part of the "Sport Package"
TEMS optional
Late models have wiring for the "Super Monitor" -- some early models do not

my brother's supra was 07/86 targa turbo manual w/ TEMS & mine is 07/87 targa turbo (orig auto) manual w/ TEMS & ABS. both no Super Monitor (huh? what is that?)

[Jeff Lange]

Originally posted by FUBAR
Jeff:
1986.5:

Introduced halfway through year, replacing the 1986 MKII Supra
Only available as a non-turbo model
Targa top available
LSD, headlight washers are a part of the "Sport Package"
TEMS optional
Late models have wiring for the "Super Monitor" -- some early models do not

my brother's supra was 07/86 targa turbo manual w/ TEMS & mine is 07/87 targa turbo (orig auto) manual w/ TEMS & ABS. both no Super Monitor (huh? what is that?)

Not sure when the model year change-over occured, but if your brother's Supra is an original Turbo, it's an 87 model. I was referring to the actual wiring for the Super Monitor, not the option itself. Chances are, both of your cars are wired for the option, but neither have it.

It's a computer that sits where the clock normally does on the instrument cluster. Here's a pic:

http://www.deluxeportal.com/personal/supra/interior_05_04_04/interior4.jpg

Here's a picture of the connector under the dash for the Super Monitor:

http://www.deluxeportal.com/personal/supra/supermonitor.jpg

[FUBAR]

actually, as I remember, his was 06/86 (very first 86.5) black on grey leather w/ the one-piece spoiler (same as mine). SuperMonitor...hmmm...gotcha keep an eye out for one at junkyards or call my buddy up at Toyota. Thanks Jeff!.

[Jeff Lange]

actually, as I remember, his was 06/86 (very first 86.5) black on grey leather w/ the one-piece spoiler (same as mine). SuperMonitor...hmmm...gotcha keep an eye out for one at junkyards or call my buddy up at Toyota. Thanks Jeff!.

It wasn't turbo from the factory if it was an 86 model then. Someone must have swapped in turbo parts... The first 86.5's were made in 1/86, the last ones were made in 7/86.

[FUBAR]

no sir, it's the same model turbo (same engine as mine) down to the ignition coils & the plastic Turbo cover for the packs.

[Jeff Lange]

Someone must have swapped the engine in. Post a pic of the VIN plate, I'd bet it was originally an N/A, (or it's an 87 model)

[FUBAR]

sorry, i did say WAS... he had a 720 degree turn on Texas highway in Houston doing 130-ish mph. Luckily he was able to walk from it.
Anyway your specs are VERY useful. Didn't know about SuperMonitor til now.

[suprafst1]

I think you've all forgotten the most important addition of all.
The Badass cup holder int the arm rest!!

[suprafst1]

What does the "super monitor" actually monitor?

[Jeff Lange]

Added the cup holder


When I was looking at MKIII's six years ago, I looked at an "86 Turbo," it was pretty well done, had the entire engine swap done, and a bunch of Turbo logos, was a targa top, had the rear spoiler and such. Wasn't an original turbo, someone swapped it in. For someone not looking, they'd probably assume it was a real turbo model.

[Robbman]

Cars built before July of that year are considered that year model..

Cars built in July and later are the next years model...


Some additions... 86.5 and early 87 models do not have a factory alarm ( only two wires on the lock switches, etc )

Also they only have a four way 'power' seat... at some point, the forward/rearward slide and the butt incline ( what IS this called ) were motorized...

BTW, these seats are MUCH lighter than later versions...

[Jeff Lange]

Actually it's considered a 10-way power seat, the forward movement, rear movement, front up, front down, rear up, rear down, lumbar in, lumbar out, sides in, sides out. I don't know why they count it both ways all the time, but they do. On the later models the reclining was changed to power as well. (making it 12-way adjustable)

[Robbman]

I was referring to the older seat... the only things that are powered are the side in side out, and lumbar up and down... thus 4 way power seat...

The newer 87-88 were considered 8 way power seats ( I have a brochure somewhere )

Same as above, but forward-backward, and the incline was powered ( I know both ends were powered, but it was considered one component )

[Mikado]

Is it worth noting that only Turbo and Sport Package models had a limited-slip? Or is that in there already and I missed it?

EDIT: Are you sure that only the lumbar and side supports were powered on the early seats? Even on the MkII, they were crowing about their 8-way seats. It doesn't make sense to suddenly drop to 4-way like that just for six months.

[Robbman]

Positive... there is a knob for the butt incline and a lever ( like the passenger side ) for the forward/backward movement...

That and I sit in it every day...


It is still an 8 way adjustable seat, just as the MkII Supras were... just not powered.

[Jeff Lange]

Yeah actually I think I remember seeing that in my owners manual... I can't find it since I moved last year though :(

[a70]

Targa no longer available on n/a cars in 92

how do you know this?

[Jeff Lange]

someone told me, so i added it to the list, if someone knows otherwise, they can let me know :p

[a70]

maybe i missed it but the gauge needles in 89+ didnt have that orange end like on 88 87 86 cars

also in 89 the door interior handles are more "rounded"

oh and my owners manual says that the factory alarm is US only in 87

[Jeff Lange]

Didn't know about the orange part being removed... I may have to do that on my 88...

I knew about the door handles, just forgot to put them on there. Thanks a70. :)

EDIT: I've actually never seen a Canadian car with the alarm system, I think they may have only been in US cars, though I don't know 100%.

[a70]

m

[Jeff Lange]

Does that manual also have the information on the seats?

[a70]

yeah

[Jeff Lange]

think you could post a pic?

[a70]

i cant get the camera to take a very clear picture of words

[a70]

theres like 3 pages on seats. next time im at my dads place i plan on scanning and uploading theentire 87 owners manal

[Jeff Lange]

yeah, that's what i remember, thanks man!

[Jeff Lange]

Here's a page from the MKIII TEWD, (1989), showing that only the US had the security system as well:

http://www.cygnusx1.net/supra/library/Wiring/pages/Page_038.gif

[Robbman]

It was a US law that required some form of anti theft device in 1987... it was actually enacted in 1984 though. Same law is the reason the VIN is on all the body parts, etc...

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/regrev/evaluate/808761.html



Some thing with the third brake light in 86 ( for cars... trucks was 94 )


The reason why some US 87 cars have the anti-theft and some don't is a rather long winded explanation... basically, the Mk III Supra had to be 'identified' as a 'high-theft' car... becuase the car was introduced later in the model year, it was designated 'high-theft' later... and thus, had alarms applied later...

Make sense :)

[Jeff Lange]

Here's something for the people who were questioning whether the automatic really had lower boost than the manual:

http://www.cygnusx1.net/supra/library/TSRM/a/A_07.gif

[suprra_girl]

ok heres a couple for u :)... we have an 86 supra which i can get pics of the vin plate if necessary... :)
its turbo, has tems, hard top with cloth sunvisors, auto, boost = 4.8psi, seats... elect forward, back, butt up & down, lumber, sides only thing we didnt have was recline ;)

my 87 has typical 86 dash but parklight switch was replaced by a coin slot
also has the seat holders on both seats :)
boost on my auto was 5.8psi ( so according to the tsrm its within spec lol)
and as far as i know it didnt have a factory alarm :)

so basic specs on 86 model
7mgte, ma70, auto, abs, narrow body, tems, electric seats without elec recline, hardtop, cloth sunvisors, prefacelift bumpers spoilers etc

87...
7mgte, ma70, auto, tems, abs, electric seats without elec recline, aero roof, widebody (yes it's factory believe it or not.. chassis.. BJPZZ) toyotas computer says it's not but it's factory alright, i've seen many many 87's and they're all the same (was it the test model for widebody?)
typical prefacelift front bumper, bomex type 1 wing, not sure if this was a toyota option or was aftermarket as i've seen tons with the wing :) cool wing too lol

oh the other thing interesting is the moulding right round the car on 87's is exclusive to 87 supras from what i can tell

ummm lol i think that's all, hope i haven't repeated anything ;)

:D

[suprra_girl]

oooh one other little really annoying thing i found too
don't ever mix up the 86 and 87 + bottom timing covers lol
believe it or not they decided they would change them :P

grr toyota
but i love em really :p

[Po' Kid]

Whats TEMs?

And I found all that info very useful!

[Jeff Lange]

TEMS = Toyota Electronically Modulated Suspension, it's a system of sensors that firm up the suspension under certain conditions. It also allows you to select from 1 of 2 settings to ride on (Normal or Sport) and then if you accelerate quickly, or turn quickly, or brake from a certain speed, it will firm up the suspension. :)

[BlackMatter]

I have a question on the speakers for the 1991+...I have yet to find a 6.5 set of brackets (Except for the 6" "JDM" ones on ebay). I was wondering if 1) it was swappable to a 1990> car, and 2) can the part be bought new, or would you have to search for it? Also, I'm looking on Crutchfield's site and they still have the car listed with the 4" rinky dink speakers that my car has (1989). Any info would be great. Thanks.

[Jeff Lange]

As far as I know, all you need is the 1991-92 door panels themselves (which consist of the larger grille and speaker area). I know a couple people have switched over to the newer interior, so they may be able to better help you with your question.

[a70]

my friend had the brackets and door panels on his 91 parts car, but they went to the crusher along with the car. It had the ugly gray color interior.

When i was looking at them it appears you will need the brackets since its different than the enclosure that the eariler syles had. I've heard that the 4" speaker sounds better dure to the enclose that it has.

[stepho]

Jeff,
Your year change data is really interesting to me.
Perhaps you can also answer a related question for me.
I have been gathering model codes and options for every RWD year Celica and Supra.
I keep seeing references to the MA70 being NA and the MA71 being turbo but this doesn't gel with the factory info I have collected so far.

You can see what I have gathered so far at
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/stepho/celprod.htm#sup70pr

[Jeff Lange]

MA70 is the chassis code, MA71 was used in the VIN to differentiate turbo models. It's a VIN-only thing. Kind of like how GT-S models of the AE86 Corolla have AE88 in the VIN.

(I did see a picture of a car with MA71 stamped on the car, but I think it may have been a VIN number for that country (wasn't North American))

[stepho]

Thanks Jeff.

So a car with MA71 in the VIN still has MA70 in the build code.
I found a similar deal with Corollas with TE71 in the VIN but TE72 in the build code.
Thanks again.

- Stepho.

[Jeff Lange]

Just thought I'd post this up, it seems that the power seat was always an option, looking through the EPC, I see the vertical adjustment knob is available on 89+ cars, and available in Shadow Grey, so that means it was available non-power until at least 91. :)

[SupraMikeCT]

I have a 92 turbo, TEMS was an option. I have the orginial window sticker showing the options and msrp's for them, TEMS cost $360 extra.

[SupraMikeCT]

Turbo pressure is 5.5-7.5 psi M/T and 4.8-6.0 psi A/T

[wstewart]

In the original post it was stated that the WIRING of the 88-89 Supras were standardized. Is it possible to retrofit an 89 Supra with the TEMS?

[Jeff Lange]

Check your car for the wiring, there are quite a few things to be added though, and I don't think it's worth it to put TEMS in, but that's just me.

A nice set of aftermarket springs/struts will be a lot better IMO.

[Fozbo]

I don't know if this is a year change or maybe just small enough to go unnoticed, but..

The sun guard hooks on the rear hatch are exactly 1/8 of an inch closer in my 89 turbo than in my 90 na.

[suprra_girl]

hmm.. i don't have those models to compare but on our jdm ones i compared an 86, 87 and 90 and they're all in the same place ;)

[dtoys]

does any one know if the 1989 non turbo's came with progressive power steering? i have to change mine, and i am unsure..please help! thanks

[Jeff Lange]

Depends, it was optional on 89+ N/A's. Check your car to see what you have.

[Jeff Lange]

Thread updated. Can anyone confirm a connector change on the O2 sensor for 91 turbos from previous years?

[magnus_heydoc]

I have a 91 turbo, canadian model and my steering wheel has no airbag. The cruise on/off button is on the left in the wheel and the cancel and set/res buttons are on the right in the wheel.
Aaron

[Jeff Lange]

I have a 91 turbo, canadian model and my steering wheel has no airbag. The cruise on/off button is on the left in the wheel and the cancel and set/res buttons are on the right in the wheel.
Aaron

Pics.

Either someone changed your steering wheel or your car isn't a 91.

[magnus_heydoc]

I'll get some pics sometime.
I suppose it's possible the wheel has been changed but it's unlikely. I've actually heard from another that there were some 91s without airbag wheels. For me it's hard to know and really I don't care either way. :)

[Jeff Lange]

Updated thread with info regarding the door handle locking update for 88.

[CalgarySupra]

also add on this, i notice in my 92 there are like 1 long metal braket on the doors that guides into the car when the door is closed, my 88 didnt have that.

[Jeff Lange]

Targas had that, Hardtops did not. My 88 has it.

[MKivSupra_Rob]

88s have cloth

[Jeff Lange]

If you're talking about the headliner, I actually already found that out a while back... guess I forgot to update my post, heh.

[Midnight Dorifuta]

(Quote button didn't work? :???: )

To whoever said that the 86.5's and early 87's didn't have a factory alarm...

Mine's like that, THANK goodness. :bigthumb:

[magnus_heydoc]

I have a feeling the 91 Canadian version had no airbag.

[Jeff Lange]

Yeah, I made a mistake, and looked it up later. I had thought for the longest time that 91 got the airbag in Canada. It was 92. I updated my post to reflect that a while back.

Sorry about that.

With regards to the security system in 86.5's and 87's. The EPC lists the security system starting with the first 86.5 in the USA, however a change to the ECU was made in 1/87. I'm going to assume that it was an option for that time, and made standard later.


Some of the conversation that happened in this thread caused more reasearch to be done, and I have only been keeping the first post up to date. Some of the stuff brought up was researched, and the first post should have the correct info as I know it.

[truracer]

Can you tell me what is the 0-60mph in the 1992 Turbo Supra or in all of them??

[Jeff Lange]

Jeff you need to add that starting 1990 there was the lighted keyhole on the drivers door.

No I don't. It was there in pre-90 models too. My 88 has it, even my 86 MK2 had it. Heck, even my 85 Camry has that, :p.

[JonnyRedline]

i have to agree with steve on this one, my 89 doesnt have a lighted keyhole, neither does my buddies 88 nor my friends 87...maybe its for canadian models in the pre 89 era?

[Jeff Lange]

I can see it being changed out in my car, as it's the actual lock cylinder that has the light, and my car was broken into/vandalized.

However, I've got both the 1988 and 1989 wiring diagram books, and they both show the door lock cylinder light. Are you guys sure your light isn't just burnt out? LOL

Something as somewhat of a side note, and something I've never noticed before today. Toyota doesn't list an N/A model for Canada after 1990. That means all 91-92 models in Canada are Turbo.

Gotta update some stuff with that tidbit.

[JonnyRedline]

its an LED..idk how it culd burn out...when i replace my door ill check to see if i have one but im 99% sure it doesnt have it.

[Jeff Lange]

Well, you should be able to see if you have it even if it's not coming on, post a close up pic of your lock.

[Jeff Lange]

Just talked to a guy in the USA with an 88 and 89, and they both have it.

[TaSe]

89T T Here with no TEMS, 6500 RPM Tach, so i'm guessing i have the pre89 motor with 89+ body =/, most likely the old mounts and sub frame haven't checked yet.

[Jeff Lange]

All 89's have the 6500rpm redline, whether they have the old mounts or not.

[SykoCerebral]

i have an 89 N/A white package with an LSD, but no ABS or TEMS, anything rare about that?:D

[Jeff Lange]

Not really.

[AlexSmith]

So what causes the power difference in the 89+ turbos from the 87 and 88s? Same engine, what gives them more power?

[Jeff Lange]

Tuning and wastegate actuator port location change.

[AlexSmith]

Well I plan to swap in a 7MGTE into my 89 soon. So will I have the extra hp, or no? Will the tuning come from the 89+ ECU?

[Jeff Lange]

If you use the 89+ setup then yes, you will, but I don't think that 2hp is gonna make much of a noticable difference in a 3600lb car.

[AlexSmith]

Perhaps not, but what about the extra 9 ft lbs? LOL I was just curious, thanks Jeff!

[supra865]

My 86.5 has the security system and the lighted keyhole also has the Super Monitor and optional power seat.Mfd date is 3/86

[s1lo 9one6]

Man i wish i knew this much bout my car as much as you mo-fo's do. its im getting there....slow but getting there sure enough =)

[Supra_Z]

If you use the 89+ setup then yes, you will, but I don't think that 2hp is gonna make much of a noticable difference in a 3600lb car.

doesnt the 89+ 7MGTE's have a balanced crankshaft? and the 87-88 7M's dont?

[SykoCerebral]

it's 89 1/2's that had the balanced crankshaft (and as a result, lower redline)...

my 89 has the 6.5k redline..

[Supra_Z]

it's 89 1/2's that had the balanced crankshaft (and as a result, lower redline)...

my 89 has the 6.5k redline..

so a 88 and under 7MGTE would be a better line to go because of higher redline?

[SykoCerebral]

it doesnt matter, either can go past 7k with no troubles...

[Jeff Lange]

it's 89 1/2's that had the balanced crankshaft (and as a result, lower redline)...

my 89 has the 6.5k redline..

All 89's have the 6500rpm redline, 1990 was when the fully-counterbalanced crank was introduced. The 250rpm difference isn't going to make much of a difference, the newer crank is smoother, and your powerband is long gone by the time you get to 6200rpm. The difference is not even worth mentioning IMO.

[driftedmk3]

did you just add about the intercooler changing?

[Jeff Lange]

No, I don't think it's on there, never thought about putting it on the list. Changed for 88.

(My post last updated back in June).

[Suprasketch]

This may seem insignifigant, but I noticed this change between the the 86.5-88 and my 91:

The trunk storage bins on the 86.5-88 have a seperate lid. in the 91, the lids are sewn into the carpet.

[BlackMKIII]

Mine is an 86.5, and it is (for all intents and purposes) fully loaded. Mine has the "courtesy" light in the driver's keyhole (activated when the handle is pulled) and the factory security system (activated by locking and closing the doors without using a key.) I hope that helps!

I also have power LEATHER seats, LSD, headlamp washers, TEMS, and the super monitor.

[Mark3Turbo]

ok so there is no airbag in my 89 manufactured in 02/89? i have a visor that says all the SRS warning shit but the steering wheel doesnt look like it has one? i need to know before i change my steering wheel this weekend to an aftermarket Grant unit.

[Jeff Lange]

No, it doesn't have an airbag, your visor was probably swapped out.

[honestabe]

Easy question, I have an 87 N/A chassis. The 4.30 diff that is in it, is it an LSD? If not, why kind of diff is it? I'm currently running a 3.73 LSD in my 90 1JZ and want to make sure I have a good diff in there (LSD is prefered because of the equal power distribution).

Adam

[Jeff Lange]

Check the data tag on the firewall for the axle code. Last digit = 4, it's an open diff, if it's a 5, it's an LSD.

Turbos always had LSD, so the 3.73 is definitely LSD.

[honestabe]

Guess I got the 3.91 LSD in my 87 N/A auto. Cool. Thanks Jeff.

Adam

[xljdmsupralx]

sorry to bring it back up from the dead. =-P

I have an 89' Supra and I really think that the sunroof was an option because I have a sunroof in my 89'. x-P

_mikey

[BloodierSpawn]

Some times I think I might've prefered the sunroof. I have an '89 GE 5 speed targa with sport roof and tems.

I'm thinking of incorporating the super monitor into my wiring harness. For those who are wondering what it does, it allows you to check your engine codes when the check engine light comes on.

[xljdmsupralx]

i also sometimes perfer the targa top. Great for summer weather and cruising too. haha. lets trade! i'll cut a hole on my roof and send you mine and then you send me your targa top and then we'll trade back when you get tired of the sunroof. xDDD. jk.

_mikey

[BloodierSpawn]

i also sometimes perfer the targa top. Great for summer weather and cruising too. haha. lets trade! i'll cut a hole on my roof and send you mine and then you send me your targa top and then we'll trade back when you get tired of the sunroof. xDDD. jk.

_mikey

lol I forgot to mention that the supermonitor also monitors you gas mileage and such. I'm not sure what the full extent of it really is, but I wouldn't mind having one.

[ninjadude206]

Hey Jeff, maybe you could update your list explaining what Toyota did to lower the height of the car 12mm in 1989(I'm curious :bigthumb: ) Thanks

Oh yeah, and I didn't see anything about the rear turbo badge moving to being an adhesive type on the moulding.

[Jeff Lange]

They changed the springs.

Updated list with "Turbo" badge information.

Jeff

[ninjadude206]

Cool, yeah I had a feeling the '92 I just bought felt lower than my old '87, based on your list I thought maybe they had a slightly lower roofline or something.

I remember seeing a pic of one with break-away mirrors on this site somewhere. I wonder if they went through two mirror changes 'cuz I'm pretty sure(It's been a while though)my '87 didn't have break away mirrors, and the ones on my '92 are even more aerodynamic that those.

I don't think my '87 had the shift lock cancel button on the automatic shift console that my '92 has. I think the '92 prevents you from being able to remove the key from the ignition unless the car is in park. The dang switch won't stay down though, grr...or maybe they designed it that way for safety reasons? The rear view mirror feels sportier too, but it's been awhile, lol. I love the sportier hash marks on the speedo dials too(IIRC, it's been like six years).

[Jeff Lange]

The mirrors you are talking about were not used in North America, they are from other countries.

The shift lock (and key removal) stuff was added for 1989. The switch is not meant to stay down.

The rear view mirror never changed on the MKIII.

Jeff

[flmk3supra]

How do I find out if i have a early or late 89 by the VIN Number?

[USPtwins]

How about the amount of oil that each holds?? Like for the motor, and all the trannys?? That would help me? :D


P.S. I love zombies.....

[boosted mk3 supra]

just a quick question you were saying the chasis code is ma70 but on mine its a ma71 and its an 89... actualy 12/88 so whats the diff??

[Jeff Lange]

Your chassis code is MA70-xxxxxxx, your VIN is JT2MA71xxxxxxxxxx. You have an MA70.

Jeff

[87supramario]

I think I may have found a small diffrence betwine the 86.5 7MGE distributor and other year 7MGE when it comes to installation. After bringing cylinder 1 to TDC, I was stumped while I was putting my distributor back on the cylinder head. The markings shown on http://www.cygnusx1.net/Supra/Library/TSRM/MK3/manual.aspx?S=IG&P=19, figer IG0999, shows markings on the driven gear but mine did not have any markings on the driven gear for me to work with.

2. b) '' Align the groove of the distributor housing with the protrusion on the driven gear.''

Mine did not have a prostrusion on the driven gear. I aligned my groove to the hole that was drilled out, located betwine the end of the housing (where the line is) and the gear. Installed my cap and the rotor was pointing at cylinder 1. And the car ran great. Idles at 1k.


Im bringing this up only as a possibility, because I have never seen a 87-88 N/A distributor or a 89-92 N/A distributor to conferm.




All of this came to me after posting a thread about what marking I should fallow. http://www.supraforums.com/forum/showthread.php?646413-Simple-distributor-instalation-question-7mge-86.5

[ninjadude206]

^ Yeah, and the resistance of the pick-up coils vary from year to year.

1986.5-1988 non-turbos - 140 to 180 ohms (all three pick-up coils)
1987-1990 turbos - 140 to 180 ohms (all three pick-up coils)
1989-1991 non-turbos - G1 and G2 pick-up coils - 140 to 180 ohms, Ne pick-up coil - 155 to 240 ohms
1992 non-turbos - G1 and G2 pick-up coils - 125 to 190 ohms, Ne pick-up coil - 155 to 240 ohms
1991 turbos - 205 to 255 ohms (all three pick-up coils)
1992 turbos - 185 to 265 ohms (all three pick-up coils)

And the ignition coil resistance values vary as well..
Primary resistance:
All non-turbos - 0.2 to 0.3 ohms
Turbo
1987 - 0.3 to 0.6 ohms
1988-1990 - 0.3 to 0.5 ohms
1991 - 0.34 to 0.42 ohms
1992 0.3 to 0.6 ohms

Coil secondary resistance(does not apply to turbo models)
1987-1991 - 9 to 12.5 ohms
1992 - 8 to 13 ohms

Not sure if you want to get this technical with it though, lol.

What the heck were they thinking changing the parts up like this :scratch:

[87supramario]

They could have just used the same parts and save that money to make more fun cars for the future (now).