I've heard the rumors that the late 2021 BRZ/86 might get 255hp but if that doesn't happen and the upgrades are only modest would a used one be worth it? I ask because I'm in the market for a used sports/sporty car while keeping the S2K. I hadn't considered the BRZ/86 but then was considering the Mini Copper S. I read the BRZ has 16 more HP and 16 more lbs but still gives the BRZ/86 a slight advantage in power-to-weight over the Mini plus the RWD. Anyone here have the BRZ/86? What do you think of it?

Other cars I'm also considering are the WRX, Genesis Coupe.

 

I really like them. Good cars.

But I also don’t understand owning two cars as similar as S2000 and Miata/BRZ/etc. Buy a comfy, fuel efficient hatchback and call it a day.

 

I love my 2019 WRX as a daily driver, for some reason it beats my 2020 Impreza on fuel economy in real world driving conditions and is much more enjoyable to drive. I love the interior of the BRZ in the upgraded models and if it comes with 255 hp that would be sweet, if not give the WRX a close look. I have zero complaints with my WRX.

 

Because I'm a dyed in the wool sports car guy. Since 2003 my other car has been a Toyota Sienna. Now that the Sienna is on it's last legs (251k miles and several expensive problems) I'm considering replacing it with a sports car, sports coupe or sports sedan. Plus the S2K is aging too - 19 yrs & 170k miles.

 

An unmodified WRX is a solid choice. A Genesis coupe would make a good DD as well, especially the later models (there was a big HP bump for both engine choices in the later years). Mini's have a horrible reliability record. 86/BRZ just doesn't have enough passing power. Personally, what I like in a DD is much different from what I want in a fun car. YMMV.

If weather is not a concern, Genesis Coupe 3.8 FTW.

 

When your wife drives the roadtrip & people-hauler...and you need a daily The BRZ/86 is nice since it is similar to the Miata in ethos, but seats 4 + has fold down seats & a usable trunk.

To OP - it often makes more sense to buy the last model year of a generation, rather than the 1st model year of the next generation.

 

Perhaps the 2022 BRZ will have some decent power? It sure doesn't now. The 260HP turbocharged 2.4 engine is available in the Legacy and a natural choice for the BRZ but so was the smooth, powerful 3.6R engine in previous Legacies.

But, alas, these are plebeian coupes not roadsters. Still 2-seaters with a package tray that looks like miniature sets in the rear -- your friends will never ask you to drive again if you stuff them back there, nor will your small children.

-- Chuck

 

The BRZ/86 have always been okay cars - just okay. I'd look harder at the Genesis coupe - more room, more power, nicer drive imo. I wouldn't consider any Mini in recent history.

Worse thing would be buying a BRZ now only to see the next year get a power bump.

Also, hatchbacks are great for the surprising amount of space they have, but a Subie wagon is a good choice.

I'll also just throw this out - used Cayman.

 

Fwiw, I usually buy a year-two new design - gives the longest legs on driving a modern car while reaping the depreciation and reliability benefits.

 

All reports say no turbo. And likely to be around 220hp.

I like the 86s alot, but the engine was lacking, not that it needs big big power, but just a better torque curve. Its 200hp but not a strong 200hp like a k20.

This new motor should address that and should be an upgrade similar to the ND2 to ND2.

Last rumor is that the price bump to be around 1k, with allt of attention to the interior. I like the spy shots, franky just give it a decent center console to rest your arm on an a cupholder and good to go.

Not the sexy option, but still worth a look. Nothing aside a miata has the same feel anymore, small, lightweight, nimble.