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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Buying a MKIII Supra
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Fri, 21 March 2003 11:59
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Hi, i'm looking at a few Mark III Supra's as i might be purchasing one. I was wondering what common problems to look out for, so far i have heard to check the hatch for rust, and that the 7M's love to blow head gaskets.
Any advice anyone can provide before i purchase would be much appreciated.
Thanks
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Fri, 21 March 2003 12:54
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Watch for a leaky steering rack, as these cost a mint to repair or replace! An engine which has been thrashed or not looked after is going to cost you in the long run so get it checked out thoroughly. I don't think rust is a major problem with these cars (certainly not as bad as the Mk2's) but you should check carefully anyway. Apart from that it's the usual - look for signs of wear and neglect, get a pro to give it the once over, all that.
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
November 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sun, 23 March 2003 08:46
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I own a Mk3, so know a few of the problems.
As you know they are prone to blowing head gaskets - check the condition of the cooling system, under the oil and radiator caps for white-looking goo. Check that it idles smoothly and that it doesn't stutter when you accelerate.
Other ears of convern are that they can rust in the spare tyre well (pull it out and look!), around the hatch, under the rubber seal around the inside of the hatch (ie. on the body - again remove it and look under it!), and sometimes under the bolt holes for the rear spoiler.
Aside from that there aren't any other inherent problems apart from the power steering system - check that the rack doesn't leak and check that the pump isn't noisy or leaky. Beyond these issues they are an AWESOME car, if you can get one in good condition you'll be rapt.
Where are you located? If you're located up here and looking to go for a drive in onein a few weeks time (I stress strongly that you TAKE YOUR TIME before making a decision), then I can probably take you for a drive in mine to show you what they go like with a few mods.
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Mon, 24 March 2003 07:24
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Yeah i would love to go for a ride. I have only been in non-turbo one at http://qik.hive.net.au which i wanted to buy but didn't have money at the time.
If you ever come down to coast or go on the celica cruise next weekend, my number is 0438 060 457
Sweet 
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Mon, 24 March 2003 13:00
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I have a jap import 1988 MA71 coming from Japan in two weeks.(personal import)
3.0 GT Limited Edition., 7MGTE (turbo) Auto, done only 52,000km. This car is obviously Jap spec, with different tail lights, spoiler, parkers, and other bits to the aussie delivered model.
This Supra is BLACK, has a targa top (removable roof) FULL leather interior and digital dash. 12 months NSW rego also included. If you want it with out the NSW rego, take $700 off the price. Immaculate condition, Still looks, and drives, and smells like a new car.
Asking $12,000. ($11,300 if outside NSW) Shop around, and try to get a better deal on a supra with only 52,000 ORIGINAL km on the clock. If anyone wants photos, I have a few and would be happy to email them.
Japanese service history also included, and will be converted into english for the buyer.
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Mon, 24 March 2003 13:03
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have a look at my avatar, and you will see exactly what this import supra looks like (minus mag wheels.)
Or, ask me for photos of the ACTUAL car for sale in japan, and i will email them.
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Mon, 24 March 2003 20:08
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I'd like to see pictures, i don't think i have ever seen a jap-spec one before. vinsoll@bigpond.net.au
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
November 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Mon, 24 March 2003 23:14
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Different tail lights? Um... I think not?
Personally I would suggest getting an Australian one as it will be easier to insure. Even though they're almost exactly the same car, many companies will just turn you back on the car for the fact that it's an import versus an Australian model. You will be able to get 99% of parts easily though as the Australian ones are almost identical.
Also on another personal note I would never buy a targa roof. This affects structural rigidity, the car will handle worse, scuttle shake, and I'm sure it would be less safe in the event of an accident. Not to mention that targa roof is one more place that something can go wrong/break/need fixing.
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 02:07
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Damn, i really want to get a targa roof. What do other people think of the targa? I have a sunroof in my celica, and i love it, i never realised how good they were until i had one. I think targa would be even better when just cruisin' on the weekends
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Location:
c'town, NSW
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 02:19
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if you like the targa top then go for it! cause at the end of the day its your choice and you should go with what u like, just be aware of its drawbacks and drive the car accordingly. 
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 08:07
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7M-Brisbane---------->
You wouldnt buy a targa roof ? This affects structural rigidity, the car will handle worse, scuttle shake, and I'm sure it would be less safe in the event of an accident.
How the hell is structural rigidity afftected ? Why would the car handle worse, scuttle and shake ?
Check your information before you go making assumptions about how cars handle. Drive a Supra (MA70/JZA70/JZA80) 300ZX, Porshe, Ferrari, Jeep, Mazda MX5, or any other convertible/targa top and tell me the handling is affected..
Try DRIVING or OWNING one first before you go making assumptions about how YOU THINK cars may or may not handle.
You are GUESSING, and have no idea what you are talking about. Your opinion on cars seems to be all fucked up. I really just think you like to make people think you know what you are talking about, when really you HAVE NO IDEA or PROOF to back up your silly accusations that targa tops dont handle. Go get a bit of driving experience and own a few more supras before you go telling me, or anyone else how good/bad supra targa tops are. As for things going wrong with the roofs ??? Do your research, and you will find out that the supras ARE NOT KNOWN for having bad targa tops, they are actually very good.
Structural Rigidity and less safe in the event of an accident ??? Where did you pull this crap from ? What do you think the guys at toyota said, "lets chop the roof off this supra and see how it goes"
There are numerous structural and framework changes in a targa top compared to a hardtop. The whole rear section of the roof is stronger, and is made to be just as strong as any other car. What are you going to do, not buy one incase you roll it onto its roof in an accident, or drive it off a cliff ?
7M-Brisbane, you really need to think before you go typing random airy-fairy silly things about a sportscar such as the MA70 supra.
ok, that was a bit harsh.
[Updated on: Tue, 25 March 2003 10:59]
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 08:26
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| Quote: |
Structural Rigidity and less safe in the event of an accident ??? Where did you pull this crap from ? What do you think the guys at toyota said, "lets chop the roof off this supra and see how it goes"
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Very Funny
Well, i know for a fact that the car does "bend" more. One of my friends used to have one and he told me that once he parked on a hill or something and he couldn't get the roof on. This guy loves supra's too, so i know he is not talking shit.
I wouldn't mind it if the car was slightly like this, because times when i'm cruising with no roof will all be more than worth it.
He also said it leaked, and if he tought it was going to rain he would put a towel down on his seat. I am wondering if this is a common problem, or maybe just his? He said it wasn't bad, but if it rained for a few hours you would definately have a soaked ass.
Also, what do you all think of the transmissions, most i cam seem to find around the cheaper end of the price bracket that have targa and turbo are always automatic, i really prefer a manual but i think that beggars can't be choosers. Is there much difference performance wise and how much is a conversion (my mate got one done to his silvia for $1000) because i might consider getting a change later on.
Thanks for all your help so far guys, it's been great.
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 08:27
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Also, one other quick question. There are two models i can tell, one that i assume is pre-89 that has st162-type taillights, and the other that has taillights all the way accross and a centre bit on the grill, which is after-89 right? I am just checking if i am correct. What models have digital dash and are there any other differences?
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Toymods Vice President
Location:
Sydney
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 08:31
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Every open top car I have ever driven has handled worse than the hard top version except for the MX5. I have driven BMW 328i cabrio and hard top, AW11 t top and hard top, SW21 T top and hard top, and Mustang convertable and hard top.
All of these cars had more flex in the open top version than the hard top, especially the BMW, it was a disgrace. They all also handled worse than the hard tops.
I know I haven't driven a Supra T top but the chances of the open top version having the same chassis rigidity and torsional strength as the hardtop without being a hell of a lot heavier is rather slim.
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Toymods Social Secretary
Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 09:06
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i would have to agree with what Josh has said here. The structural/torsional rigidity of the car would definitely be compromised in a comparison of mrk3 hardtop and targa top. Why? Since there is no solid metal in place at the top of the car, the car's chassis is able to bend along the torsional axis.
Compare the chassis rails and door sills of the hardtop and targa tops - you will notice that there in fact is no difference between their size/stregth! Whereas on most NEW european convertible/targa top cars that also have a hardtop version, the targa top version will have a larger door sill, which is obviously stronger (barina and RX7 series 5 are good examples) to compensate for the reduced rigidity of the car's frame.
I have had this testimony from 3 different mark 3 owners, all of whom had compared the hardtop and targa top - and eventually decided the hardtop was the better option for rigidity. Although, that said - targa tops are DAMN COOL!
Its all up to preference really.
Oh - and people, there is no need to take what another says as a personal attack and get all defensive about it! This is a public forum, people exchange information like in a conversion - you wouldnt blast your head off at someone for saying that in a conversion whould you?
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 10:16
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| SUPRA MAN wrote on Tue, 25 March 2003 18:07 |
7M-Brisbane---------->
You wouldnt buy a targa roof ? This affects structural rigidity, the car will handle worse, scuttle shake, and I'm sure it would be less safe in the event of an accident.
How the fuck is structural rigidity afftected ? Why would the car handle worse, scuttle and shake ?
Check your information before you go making assumptions about how cars handle. Drive a Supra (MA70/JZA70/JZA80) 300ZX, Porshe, Ferrari, Jeep, Mazda MX5, or any other convertible/targa top and tell me the handling is affected..
Try DRIVING or OWNING one first before you go making assumptions about how YOU THINK cars may or may not handle.
You are GUESSING, and have no idea what you are talking about. Your opinion on cars seems to be all fucked up. I really just think you like to make people think you know what you are talking about, when really you HAVE NO IDEA or PROOF to back up your silly accusations that targa tops dont handle. Go get a bit of driving experience and own a few more supras before you go telling me, or anyone else how good/bad supra targa tops are. As for things going wrong with the roofs ??? Do your research, and you will find out that the supras ARE NOT KNOWN for having bad targa tops, they are actually very good.
Structural Rigidity and less safe in the event of an accident ??? Where did you pull this crap from ? What do you think the guys at toyota said, "lets chop the roof off this supra and see how it goes"
There are numerous structural and framework changes in a targa top compared to a hardtop. The whole rear section of the roof is stronger, and is made to be just as strong as any other car. What are you going to do, not buy one incase you roll it onto its roof in an accident, or drive it off a cliff ?
7M-Brisbane, you really need to think before you go typing random airy-fairy silly things about a sportscar such as the MA70 supra.
At least you made me laugh, while I was thinking about HOW MUCH YOU DONT KNOW about supras.
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Dude...
No need to blow your top over 7M-Brisbane's post the way you did.
He does in fact own a Supra. I'm not sure if he's driven a targa, but I dare say he has.
I own a targa and have driven both hard tops and targas... believe me there is a difference! Even when the roof is bolted on. And when it's off the car feels like "a wet noodle going over train tracks" as someone put it. This isn't just mine or 7M's opinion either. You will find that anyone who's driven a targa will tell you the same thing and this is common knowledge among MA70 owners.
Having said that, I chose to get a targa for the gimmick factor. I just love driving with the roof of! I would still get another one if I had to make my purchase again (in fact... I'm currently considering buying another one  )
I see nothing wrong with 7M's post and I don't think the tone of your reply was warranted... Not meaning to offend or anything. Just my opinion.
[Updated on: Tue, 25 March 2003 10:19]
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 10:57
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Both of the Targa top supras I have driven have had extensive suspension work done, including full aftermarket struts, springs, swaybars and such. One had 190kw, the other nearly 220kw at the rear wheels, and drove, cornered, and stopped exceptionally. These cars performed as well as any of the other supras I have owned or driven. (5 owned, countless driven.) But I suppose that just my opinion.
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 11:05
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ok, i was a bit harsh.
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Location:
Ipswich
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 12:02
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OK
I have been told that toyota designed the ma70 first as a targa.
Then they strengthened the chassis to compensate.
Then they designed the hardtop.
So from that i would assume that the targa is probably better strength wise than any other targa around. And the hardtop absolutely fantastic.
But the hard top will always be better than the targa, if only marginally.
And there is 2 major models. Pre89 with the diffent tail lights and front bar.
And 89 onwards. 89 Onwards marked the begining of the turbo model here in australia.
2l twin turbo (1g-gte) was available in japan and europe before 89 i think. They had the electric dash.
I think some of the GT 3l turbos also had the electric dash.
From 90 onwards in japan was available the jza70 with 1jz-gte.
Not sure what dash they had tho.
Someone should be able to tell ya.
Brett.
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Epping, Sydney
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 12:05
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since all the mk3 buffs seem to be posting in here... waht does the mk3 weigh in at, stock?
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Location:
Ipswich
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 12:17
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as far as i know the 89+ turbo are somewhere around 1500 - 1600kgs.
Have heard the earlier model NA come in around 1400kgs.
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 12:35
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I had to put mine over a weigh bridge to get engineers certificate and NSW rego after bringing it in from japan two weeks ago. It weighed 1,580kg. This is the Group A racing model though (bigger brakes, bigger intercooler, baffels in the fuel tank, full aftermarket suspension plus lots more).
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
July 2002
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 13:33
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My supra coming from japan in april is BLACK has GREY LEATHER, has a TARGA ROOF, has DIGITAL DASH, but alas, it is auto, not manual. 
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 13:37
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| Helmann wrote on Tue, 25 March 2003 22:17 |
Have heard the earlier model NA come in around 1400kgs.
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I doubt that... that's only 50kg more than a Mk2! The lowest figure I've seen for a Mk3 is in the low 1500's, and that's a GA70.
As for the targa issue, I have driven several MA70 hardtops and two MA70 targas, and there IS a noticeable difference. I was surprised the first time I drove a targa because I wasn't expecting it to be any different, but it definitely was!
"Supra man", I think you need to learn to relax. This is generally a friendly place where people share information. A response like the one you made above is only going to encourage people to keep their knowledge to themselves, which defeats the whole purpose of a forum. Oh, and try to keep an open mind - this may come as a shock to you, but you probably don't know everything there is to know about Supras!
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 13:51
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yep, you are right norbie. In fact, you would know more than me. you seem to be a bit of a wizz with the supras, and the engine conversions you perform are stuff most of us can only dream of !! Lets just say today wasnt a good day for me. I'm not going into details, but sometimes work related stuff tends to become a bit stressful.
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Location:
Perth
Registered:
January 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 17:01
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| SUPRA MAN wrote on Tue, 25 March 2003 00:00 |
I have a jap import 1988 MA71 coming from Japan in two weeks.(personal import)
3.0 GT Limited Edition., 7MGTE (turbo) Auto, done only 52,000km. .
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Yeah right! Thats less than 3500kms a year. I bought an '88 Mk3 with only 85000km on the clock, guess what I found when I opened it up....
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Epping, Sydney
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 18:38
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I've got an 84 mk2
80 000 genuine kms (just ticked it over last nihgt)
so that's only slightly over 4000 a year
although admittedly it was garaged for 5 of those latter years
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Tue, 25 March 2003 20:52
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When I'm buying a car like this, K's don't mean too much to me, because i think they are very easy to wind back, and on imports there would be no real way of knowin. As long as the K's wern't freakishly high then i would be happy.
I think I am going to keep an eye CarSales.com.au and CarPoint.com.au as well as the personal trading post. Is there any other places i should be looking?
From what has been said, i am definately going to get targa, because it should help me pick up chicks too I think it's definately weaker, but i arn't high performance racing, just driving places.
I was wondering if anybody has ever thought of making a second targa roof out of tinted glass/plastic or something, so you can see out of it? That would be so cool when it is raining
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 00:08
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Firstly Dont stuff around with a ma70 - turbo or not. Get a jza70 - you wont regret it ! worth every cent extra !!
also - i have seen a toyota produced video that was supposed to be shown to every prospective targa buyer b4 they made the big descision. this video covered all the failings of the targa roof system and explained them away before the car was bought.
It was a long video - and NO dealers ever used it.
I have been in a couple of targa's and on all the door lights used to come on and off when punted hard around corners.
Roof hard to fit on odd slopes or driveways etc.
I have heard the "wet noodle over train tracks " quote a number of times from other owners - seems to be a popular way to describe the feeling.
The targa is COOl - no doubt, but is not perfect - the best performance option is the hardtop.
Seriously though - how many of us really push them to 95% + anyway?
My jza70 weighed in at 1680kg (without me)recently with a 1/4 tank of fuel.
Kind of makes my 0-100 times (consistant 5.3)pretty good considering they were done 2 up ( add 170 kg) .
That includes a 20 kg sub box + amp though.
Go the JZA70 !!
Matt
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 00:31
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1ndecent-------->>>
When a few guys from toymods see my car, they will be able to tell you how good it is, as it looks like it has done LESS than 80,000km. I dont know if your car is aussie or jap, but japan isnt very big, and most people use public transport. Low KM is one of the big reasons people import cars from Japan.
I bought my 1988 Turbo-A from a dealer in Japan called KING BUYER, in the Chiba prefecture near Tokyo.. High Performance Imports(HPI) magazine did a 3 page spread on the KING BUYER dealership in issue no. 27, late last year (the issue with the Veilside 9 second supra on the front).
QUOTE (page 94, HPI magazine )
"You may find the odd modified car at an Australian Dealership, but in Japan you can find dealers who carry nothing but seriously modified cars. King Buyer, near Tokyo, are a great example. Their speciatlty is Supras, but models like the RX7, Soarer, Mkii, and Skyline also appear on the lot. It's a dizzing experience to see all these cars laid out in front of you ready to run 11's at the nearest dragstrip"
It goes on to say that most of these cars are bought directly from tuning shops, and have NEVER been to the auctions where "most" Australians buy their cars.
This dealership is apparently one of the best and well known in Japan. I have various other information about KING BUYER, as I did my homework before purchasing my car off them. They have a website, and yes, my car is on their website in Japan.
Their main page is www.king-buyer.co.jp.
yes, it's in japanese, bt you can tell by the pictures they sell only seriously modified quality sport scars.
Go to SUPRAS, then down to stock no. 740, and that is my car. Sometimes there is 3 or 4 photos of my car, sometimes they show 7 or 8. This is the one I imported my self, and picked up from the docks in sydney 2 weeks ago.
If anyone has doubts about buying a car from japan(or how many km my car has done), come and see my car, and you will then believe that my car has only done 80,000km, and that my other 3.0GT LIMITED coming from Japan in April has only done 52,000km, and that if you do your homework, and only buy from reputable sources, importing a car can be very rewarding, and in some cases, the cars are still like brand new.
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 00:35
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I wish... I have seen one in all the time (6+ months) that i have been looking. I think they are way better, because the 7M has few problems (EG: head gaskets) plus you know that under the skin, your as good as the jza80's
I have heard heaps of people say that it handles way worse, but to me that's not a problem because i won't ever be racing or drifting. The only time my car will ever strain is basically taking off quickly, EG: at lights or when getting on highway. This wouldn't be a problem in a MA70 turbo targa would it?
I figure if i am doing alot of drifting or sideways stuff then it would make a big difference but with my driving i should be alright?
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 00:39
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Yojimbo----->
those times sound about right. My supra did a 0-100km 5.1 and a 5.3 with 2 people in the car. Standard 7MGTE Group A engine running 7psi with only a 2.5inch exhaust. I cant wait till i do a few more mods, i.e exhaust, 12-14psi boost etc....Should be able to drop the times into the high 4 second bracket. Cant wait to take my Turbo Group A supra to the track to do a standard 400m quater mile.....I'd have no idea what it will run, but it should be good !!
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 01:21
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oops, I mean www.king-buyer.co.jp.
If anyone wants a car imported from KING BUYER in japan, let me know. I can organise it.
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Central Coast
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 01:55
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Did Toyota do anything about the HG in the Turbo A's?
I just built a 1:24 scale model of a MA71 Turbo A!  bought it off ebay, it's al black with black rims, I'll have to take a photo of it and show ya ! Or if you meet up with Danners at Terrigal on thursday i'll see ya there !
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Perth
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 02:06
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Norbie, the base model GA70 with a 1GGE was supposed to be the lightest of them at 1420kg
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 02:22
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rvrolla---->
Apparently yes. I havent been able to find alot of info on the Turbo-A headgasket, but yes, it is better than standard, but metal or copper, or something else, I am yet to find out exactly. I am awaiting full specifications of the 1988 3000GT Turbo-A from Toyota in Japan.
I can tell you it has a different computer, and I have photo of mine if any 7MGTE enthusiasts want to see it. I wouldnt go looking to buy one though to run a standard 7MGTE, they are very rare, only 500 in circulation, and Toyota want thousands of $$$ for a replacement as it is programmed to run the 256 degree camshafts, map sensor instead of AFM, hugely different power curve with air and fuel intake, larger injectors, and a multitude of other goodies Toyota put on as standard on the Turbo-A.
I would love to see your 1:24 model of the Turbo-A. I am planning to buy one ASAP. Does you 1:24 have the huge air intake/front bumper duct to feed air to the massive intercooler ??? If so, you have a 'genuine' Turbo-A 1:24 model, just like my car !!!
Hope to see you thursday night !! Do you park in the car park next to the surf club ??
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Central Coast
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 02:48
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It came with different fron bars, left or right hand drive, then the correct dash stickers to suit either left or right, a choice of different seats etc and you could have the headlights up or down, i just put together what i liked
Are we supposed to be meeting at the beer gardens or at the car park itself? If the beeries, then we usually park in the back car park behind. I'll bring it for ya
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 03:23
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ok cool, my number is 0403218108
dive me a call sometime on thursday, or message me your phone number. Alternativly, give me a time to meet u guys, and I'll see you there.
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Central Coast
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 03:30
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Okie dokie 
Well I'd say that Danners will probably E-Mail ya again, I'll pass on a message to him, but we usually meet up at 9pm at Terrigal. Hope you'll be in the beast !
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 03:44
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I've got a Black GT Limited one too. They rule!
My last one was a '86 non turbo, targa. I could DEFINATELY tell when the roof was off. With my current car there is no difference. They have fully redone the structual rigidity of this car. Ask Joel about the cruise to Nowra, we hit Maquarie pass and started grinning. On the curves there, and also on the drive down Putty Road with the Lambo (yes, targa roof was on) I was pushed it more than David did. Also mine is manual, with a BS clutch, and gear changes with the roof off are as crisp as ever.
I highly reccomend the GT Limited ones. For 12 grand thats a great price! I wish I had enough money I'd buy another.
If you can find a JZ supra, they are easyer to get more performance out of them, and they're newer, so 1. less likely to break and 2. Have newer options on them.
One thing to note is that the aircon on my '86 N/A one was much colder than my '91 GT L one.
We should start up a GT Limited meet! OR just a Black Supra meet. ... nah F that, just make sure more Supras come to the group events!
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Location:
Ipswich
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 03:49
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Here is the site where i got my supra from.
http://www.ozsupra.qld.org/
It was the only place mine was advertised so she came from a good home.
Previous owner actually had 2. My red hardtop and a red targa.
Hey supra man. How are you able to compliance a model that was released in australia. I thought u only could if you used the car as a track car only.
And you are right about king-buyer. I was going to import a jza70 from there but could not get compliance plates and they are rare as here in australia. But if i was importing a supra that is where i would go to get one. Try bablefish on the pages.
Works a little bit.
Brett.
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I supported Toymods
Location:
Epping, Sydney
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 03:52
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supra events?
or do you mean toymods events in general?
I'm going to start turning up to them again (ecu on saturday... cant wait to test out that extra power)
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Location:
Helensvale, Queensland
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 10:59
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Helmann, did you buy it off an older guy? I think i spoke to the guy coz he was in brisbane or something? He had owned the hard top, then bought the targa and got rid of the hardtop?
Also, what year did JZA70's start? is there any way to distingish apart from the TT badges?
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Location:
Ipswich
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 11:29
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yeah he is an old guy 55 or so
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 14:38
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OH, DOH !!! The 2 targa top supras I have driven both had the roof ON while I drove them !!! DAMN !!!!! thats why I didnt notice the difference 
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Wed, 26 March 2003 15:13
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Helmann---->
Anything that is 15 years old or older (ie made pre 1989) does not require a compliance plate. All that is required is an engineers certificate. Mine cost $250, just to confirm the import meets all Australian design rules and specifications. Any car made in 1988 or befer can be brought into Australia no problem...yep, anything, modified or not. As long as it is safe and passes an ngineers inspection when it gets here.
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
November 2002
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Fri, 28 March 2003 13:22
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7M-Brisbane------->
All appologies offered. I was a dick head, I know. Sorry to act like an idiot.
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Location:
Melbourne
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 00:43
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I own a targa roof Supra and with the roof off and I noticed when driving over train tracks it 'feels' weak. But other than that, I don't notice much difference other than the sun burning my head when its very sunny.
Besides the engine, what other differences are there between the GA70 and MA70? The GA70 is like 200kg lighter, so where does the GA70 lose it's weight?
GA70 + 1JZ would be nice (due to weight difference).
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Location:
Brisbane
Registered:
May 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 01:17
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The GA70 is lighter because of its much lighter engine and transmission. If you put a 1JZ-GTE and R154 in a GA70, it will end up weighing pretty much the same as a JZA70!
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 12:10
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| SUPRA MAN wrote on Wed, 26 March 2003 13:22 |
rvrolla---->
I can tell you it has a different computer, and I have photo of mine if any 7MGTE enthusiasts want to see it. I wouldnt go looking to buy one though to run a standard 7MGTE, they are very rare, only 500 in circulation, and Toyota want thousands of $$$ for a replacement as it is programmed to run the 256 degree camshafts, map sensor instead of AFM, hugely different power curve with air and fuel intake, larger injectors, and a multitude of other goodies Toyota put on as standard on the Turbo-A.
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I hate to burst your bubble, but the Group A road cars did not run 256 degree camshafts, it was more like 210 deg, with the same lift as the non group A cars(7.44mm).
power was 204kw @ 5600rpm, and 354nm @ 4400rpm.
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 13:06
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OK, I have found it very hard to get any information on these cars, as 95% of the websites on Turbo-A's are in japanese.
I am only repeting information I have read on the internet. I have had contradicting information on this model supra from japanese and english websites. Some say 199kw, some say 206kw, some say differnt again.
Some websites I have converted from japanese to english talk about 256 degree cams, and some dont.
I would be interested to find out where you found about the camshafts from. Do you know anything else ? I am awaiting the full specs from Toyota in Japan at the moment.
At the moment, I can only confirm things on the exterior of the motor, such as larger intercooler, map sensor, and different computer. Whats inside is just a guess, I am just hoping that what these websites say is accurate.
Have you heard anything about the headgasget ? How come you know stuff about the 1988 3.0GT Turbo-A ??? Do you agree with the other things I said are included on the turbo-A ??
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
March 2003
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 13:41
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| SUPRA MAN wrote on Sun, 30 March 2003 00:06 |
OK, I have found it very hard to get any information on these cars, as 95% of the websites on Turbo-A's are in japanese.
I am only repeting information I have read on the internet. I have had contradicting information on this model supra from japanese and english websites. Some say 199kw, some say 206kw, some say differnt again.
Some websites I have converted from japanese to english talk about 256 degree cams, and some dont.
I would be interested to find out where you found about the camshafts from. Do you know anything else ? I am awaiting the full specs from Toyota in Japan at the moment.
At the moment, I can only confirm things on the exterior of the motor, such as larger intercooler, map sensor, and different computer. Whats inside is just a guess, I am just hoping that what these websites say is accurate.
Have you heard anything about the headgasget ? How come you know stuff about the 1988 3.0GT Turbo-A ??? Do you agree with the other things I said are included on the turbo-A ??
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You're correct in the information being hard to find.
I know somebody in the states with a Group A motor (road version). The cams have slightly more duration than the factory unit, but they are not 256degs - I own a set of genuine race cams, and these are 256 deg with 10.88mm lift, they are monsters.
I'm 100% certain on the power figures I quoted.
Map sensor & ECU is spot on, unsure about injectors, I was under the impression they're still 440ccs, but I honestly dont know. Headgasket was an updated type I believe, It wasn't a metal gasket unfortunetly.
The turbo had a 5mm larger compressor wheel and a 10mm larger exhaust wheel....the wastegate was also larger.
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 14:18
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ahh, ok, cool. you sound like you know a bit about them.
1. Do you want to sell your cams then ?
2. do you think the head should be tensioned down more to handle more boost, or are they already tighter than the standard 52pound ?
3. Do you know what boost they run standard ?? my boost guage only goes to 4psi 
4. Have you heard anything about strengthened internals ? could the Turbo-A engine handle moore boost than the standard 7MGTE ?
5. should I boost to around 12psi, or go for 15psi/1bar ???
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 14:23
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Stenno--->
do you have any 7MGTE go faster bits you want to sell if you are putting a 2jzgte in your MA71 ?? cams, say yes
or other stuff ?
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Location:
Sydney
Registered:
July 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sat, 29 March 2003 14:41
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Stenno--->
So if our figures are correct for power output, we could safely say that it is pretty damn close to a stock 1JZGTE power output, which is rated at 206kw.
I heard the 1JZ has slightly better torque, but it weighs more than the 7M.
I think that means it should be neck and neck with a stock JZA70. Would that be your assumption too ?
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Location:
newcastle
Registered:
June 2002
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Re: Buying a MKIII Supra
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Sun, 30 March 2003 00:22
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A stock Jza 70 will do about a low 6 second 0-100, and 14 second 1/4. Depending on tyre choice and driver.
There is only one way to find out - P.E.A.T.S.
Matt
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