TRD Griffon Concept 014.
Last year this car posted 1:00.749 at Tsukuba Circuit in Japan.
On January 31st, 2014, the Griffon with further internal engine modifications, now posted a 0:57.407 !
That's about couple of seconds faster around this track as a stock Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, or a Nismo R34 Z-Tune...that does it in about 1.00 flat.
While it's completely unfair to compare since it is a modified car, it's still impressive considering that the Toyota 86 that is the base of TRD Griffon Concept, is all from bolt on parts, and with no forced induction or electric assist add-on.
TRD Japan announces again that many of the parts used in this exercise will be inspected and researched further, and with strong focus on making it available for builders in the future.
So... Having said that, I myself feel that Toyota86/Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ fans need to go train more on the driving skills at racetracks, as Toyota 86's go-fast parts from TRD will be in form of something real, for the track, and will definitely require the skill-set of a good driver to tap the speeds.
Just as AE86 was in it's days, this car will count the driver as part of the key to going fast, and bragging rights will only come with those who can tame the potentials nestled within the simple, raw nature of being agile.
See you at the raceway guys!
