Models · Toyota
Toyota Supra A80 (Mk4) buying guide
The fourth-generation Supra, built from 1993 to 2002 and sold officially in the UK until 1996 with the twin-turbo 3.0 2JZ-GTE. Many cars are Japanese imports, including non-turbo versions. The engine is durable when maintained.
The versions
- UK cars: 3.0 twin-turbo straight six (2JZ-GTE), 326bhp, with steel rather than ceramic turbos
- UK cars: Getrag six-speed manual or four-speed automatic, solid roof, bonnet vent and headlamp washers
- Japanese imports: 276hp turbo cars, naturally aspirated cars with a five-speed manual, and a targa-style roof
What to check on a Mk4 Supra
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Cambelt and water pump history
What to look for: Look in the history for a dated cambelt change within the last 50,000 miles or five years, ideally with the water pump, gaskets and seals done at the same time. Check for oil changes recorded about every 6,000 miles.
Why it matters: The 2JZ-GTE uses a cambelt, due every 50,000 miles or five years, and the water pump is usually replaced with it. Regular oil changes are what let these engines exceed 200,000 miles before an overhaul, so a full record is a good sign.
The second turbo and smoke
What to look for: On the drive, with the engine warm, accelerate firmly through the rev range. The second turbo should come in at around 4,000rpm with a clear step in pace. Watch the mirrors for exhaust smoke, and note any misfire.
Why it matters: If the second turbo isn't working, boost drops at about 4,000rpm and then slowly recovers; if the first isn't, there is little boost below 4,000rpm. A failed actuator rather than the turbo itself is sometimes the cause. Smoke points at turbo or engine wear, and faulty coil packs can cause misfires.
Gearbox whine and second gear
What to look for: On a manual, listen for whining and change through every gear, paying most attention to second. Note a crunch, reluctance or the gearbox jumping out of gear. Feel for a slipping clutch, and ask when the gearbox fluid was last changed.
Why it matters: Second gear synchromesh is the known weak point on the Getrag six-speed, and Toyota improved it with the 1996 facelift. The gearbox fluid should be changed every 15,000 miles. A worn clutch and flywheel are best replaced together.
Also in the full guide
- Rear arches, side skirts and underside
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Mk4 Supra
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Toyota.