We've been following Toyota’s FT-86 from its concept days to its production debut as the GT86. Now it's gone topless, with Toyota unveiling the FT-86 Open Concept Geneva Motor Show.
The FT-86 Open Concept is the latest iteration of the project begun in partnership with Subaru. Shown to gauge public reaction will to a cabriolet version of the GT86, the soft-top convertible retains the 2+2 seating arrangement combined with the new multi-layered fabric roof and glass screen that folds down behind the fixed rear seats without intruding too much on the boot.
The dimensions of the FT-86 Open Concept remain the same as on the GT86 sports coupe and it has the same compact profile with strong, yet understated lines and low-riding grille. For the Geneva Motor Show, the Open Concept sports a bright white and navy livery by Toyota Boshoku Milan Design “to capture the spirit and atmosphere of Milan.”
the Open Concept , such as the frameless doors with reinforced locks.
The FT-86 Open Concept weighs 1,257 kilograms (2,771 lb) and has a 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution, which Toyota says provides “ideal response to even subtle steering, throttle and brake inputs.” The company admits that further engineering analysis needs to be done to complete the topless model – the cabriolet needs to be “weight-neutral” in comparison to the coupe if the company decides to take it into production.
The FT-86 Open Concept uses the same powertrain as the GT86 with the same horizontally-opposed, two-liter, four-cylinder boxer engine and Toyota’s D-4S direct injection technology. The rear-wheel drive has the choice of a short-throw, six-speed manual or flappy-paddle gearbox, which Toyota says is the world’s fastest with response times of 0.2 seconds.
The Open Concept's engine is positioned to give a lower center of gravity and there’s MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension, electric power steering with a race-car 13.1:1 ratio, plus fore and aft ventilated disc brakes for better control and pedal feel.
Toyota didn’t give any performance statistics, but if the FT-86 Open Concept matches the GT86, it should put out about 200 bhp (149 kW), have a top speed of 145 mph (233 km/h) and do 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in six seconds.
No decision has yet been made as to whether the FT-86 Open Concept will go into production.
The Geneva Motor Show runs from March 7 to 17.
Source: Toyota
