Option — Shōwa Car Tuning & Buyers Guide (2000 Edition)

The second-generation 20-series Soarer debuted in 1986. The top model had a twin-cam turbo 7M-GT with 230 horsepower. This sample is set up for maximum speed on a certain expressway: the 7M-GT’s turbo has been replaced with a T88, and it runs around 0.9 kg/cm² of boost. It reportedly reaches 288 km/h. Because the 20-series Soarer is a standard-width five-number-plate car, fitting wide tires is a challenge. Owner Matsunaga solved it by…

The second-generation Starlet, the KP61, debuted in 1978. It put an unremarkable but charming retro 1.3-liter OHV engine up front and drove the rear wheels. The sporty Si grade had fuel injection and was popular with young drivers. Even after the EP71 replaced it, the compact FR KP continued to make its mark. It also competed in the SNC Starlet Normal Cup and TS touring races, so many engine and tuning parts are available. This sample KP has period TRD overfenders and TS-style engine tuning. Though its outright speed is lower, its fun is equal to—or greater than—that of modern cars.

“It is not that the KP61 is unpopular, but the number of available cars keeps shrinking. It is not the kind of car people restore and keep driving like a Hakosuka Skyline or a Z. Enthusiasts often keep five or six KP cars in reserve; when one is wrecked, they move on to the next rather than repair it. As a result, good examples for sale are becoming scarce.” (Auto Bura, 0427-96-5005)

MZ20 Soarer 3.0 GT

Luxury coupe, but insanely fast

The number-plate holder area has been cut so air reaches the intercooler more efficiently. That unexpected aggression is part of its appeal for a Soarer.

A 7M with a T88 launches it forward—aiming to make the Soarer the fastest!

Owner Hiroshi Matsunaga says, “A GT-R or Supra is expected to be fast. A car everyone else has is boring, right?”

FARI’S

I want a 20-series Soarer!

~ Buyer’s guide ~

EARL’S

Setrab

Sample car: 2.0 GT Twin Turbo

A custom surge tank catches the eye; a T88 turbo is fitted to the 7M-GT.

¥50,000–500,000 / ★★★☆☆ / many examples have been carefully maintained

…price

“There are a fair number around. Condition naturally varies widely, as with any used car, but perhaps because of the Soarer’s class, many have been driven carefully. They are relatively reassuring cars to choose.” (Navi Garage, 03-5658-8888)

He has rolled out all the fenders to fit wheels with a Soarer-specific offset. There are several other top-speed 20-series Soarers on that expressway as well…

…there are Soarers too…

There are also many owners’ clubs; perhaps the 20-series Soarer has something that draws people in…

…something that makes you want one.

Availability

At a glance

…there are also 20-series Soarers of this type…

…those who have chosen it…

Gross output

Starlet Si

The early KP61 had two round headlights; the photo shows a later model. Its TRD works overfenders look sharp. Owner Nobuyuki Hanaoka is pictured with it.

1.3 liters and rear-wheel drive!

The TS-spec engine uses Mahle forged pistons and 1G connecting rods, paired with 44 mm Solex carburetors.

Owner Hanaoka ordered and installed custom coilovers based on Bilstein components, with 5 kg front and 4 kg rear spring rates.

Learn to drive with this one

Attack the mountain roads exactly as you want!

I want a KP61 Starlet!

~ Buyer’s guide ~

Sample car: KP61 Starlet

…and so on.

¥400,000–600,000 / ★☆☆☆☆ / examples do exist

Market price

Availability

At a glance

Minor-car edition, beginner level ★ modified

Option

Option — Shōwa Car Tuning & Buyers Guide (2000 Edition)

About this issue

Page 169 — English draft translation