scion fr-s/subaru brz
Double your pleasure, double your fun.
For the first time since 1997, when the Ford Contour and Mercury
Mystique shared, one car sold under two different marques has claimed a
single 10Best award. The differences between the Scion FR-S and Subaru
BRZ are some exterior colors and trim, and the BRZ comes standard with a
navigation unit, equating to a $1310 premium over the $24,955 FR-S.
Critics of the Scibaru are quick to point out its unrefined and buzzy
shortcomings. We hear the buzzing, and even a little interior rattling,
as the backing track to a constant reminder that chassis development
took the lead during this car's gestation. Electrically assisted
steering that actually communicates and a chassis balance that ebbs and
flows between understeer and oversteer with brake or throttle
applications are hallmarks of its personality. It is a lot like the
Porsche Boxster in that regard, but for about half the cost. With only
200 horses and a 6400-rpm torque peak, there's no power cushion to
adjust the mid-corner pace. The Subion challenges drivers to maintain
speed and when apex velocity is maxed out, so is the driver-satisfaction
gauge. Entertainment, value, and execution of the intended purpose are
the 10Best commandments: This one (okay, two) nails 'em all.
specifications
vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe
base price: $24,955–$26,265
engine: DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter flat-4, 200 hp, 151 lb-ft
transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
wheelbase: 101.2 in
length: 166.7 in
width: 69.9 in height: 50.6 in
curb weight: 2750–2800 lb
epa city/hwy fuel economy: 22–25/30–34 mpg
