Upgrade Mk3 Toyota Supra Suspension and Wheels for Better Handling

Upgrading the Suspension on the Mk3 Toyota Supra

The Mk3 Toyota Supra, produced from 1986 to 1992, is an iconic Japanese sports car revered by tuning enthusiasts around the world. With its robust 2JZ twin-turbo inline-6 engine, the Mk3 Supra is capable of handling significant power upgrades. However, to get the most out of the engine, the Supra's suspension system also needs upgrading.

Why Upgrade the Supra's Suspension?

The stock Mk3 Supra comes with a capable independent front and rear suspension system. However, it is designed primarily for street driving dynamics from the factory. Upgrading the suspension allows Supra owners to adjust aspects like ride height, dampening, and spring rates to their preferences.

Lowering the Supra improves its appearance and center of gravity for better cornering. Stiffer suspension components reduce body roll. All of this translates to better handling and performance, allowing the upgraded engine to maximize its potential.

Popular Suspension Upgrades

Some of the most popular Mk3 Supra suspension upgrades include:

• Coilover kits - allow height, dampening, and spring adjustability
• Lowering springs - lower ride height 1-3 inches for appearance and handling
• Sway bars - reduce body roll and improve corner grip
• Strut bars - tie front strut towers together for chassis stiffness
• Control arms - correct suspension geometry
• Bushings - replace worn factory rubber for responsiveness

Important Considerations

When upgrading the suspension, Mk3 Supra owners should consider:

• Intended use - street, track, drag racing, etc. Each has different requirements.
• Ride quality - lowering and stiffer suspension reduces comfort.
• Component compatibility - ensure no interference or geometry issues.
• Installation - proper alignment is critical post-install.
• Budget - suspension upgrades can become very expensive.

Wheel & Tire Upgrades

Along with suspension work, most Mk3 Supra owners also upgrade the wheels and tires. The Supra came stock with 14" or 15" wheels from the factory. Upgrading to 17" or 18" aftermarket wheels dramatically modernizes the Supra's appearance.

Benefits of Larger Wheels

Some benefits of upgrading include:

• Appearance - bigger wheels fill out fenders for an aggressive stance
• Handing - less sidewall flex with low-profile tires
• Braking - larger rotors increase stopping power

Wheel Fitment Considerations

Properly fitting larger wheels and tires on the Mk3 Supra requires checking:

• Wheel diameter and width
• Wheel offset - ensures correct positioning relative to fenders
• Tire diameter - maintains gearing and speedometer accuracy
• Fender rolling/pulling - prevents rubbing at full lock

Tire Choices for Supra Wheels

Popular tire choices for upgraded Supra wheels include:

• Summer performance - Maximizes grip in dry and warm conditions
• Ultra high-performance - Track-focused with softer compounds
• All-season high-performance - Balance of grip and wet weather capability

Final Thoughts

With a dialed-in suspension, wheels, and tires, the Mk3 Supra's iconic 2JZ power can be translated into world-class handling. Done properly, a comprehensive upgrade path can transform the Supra into a corner-carving demon.

Just remember when upgrading to always consider intended use, balance ride quality with performance, check component fitment, budget for professional installation, and take care of proper wheel fitment. Do that, and the Mk3 will respond with some of the best handling characteristics of any 1990s Japanese sports car.

FAQs

What are the most popular suspension upgrades for the Mk3 Supra?

Popular suspension upgrades for the Mk3 Supra include:

• Coilover kits
• Lowering springs
• Sway bars
• Strut bars
• Control arms
• Bushings

What wheel sizes fit the Mk3 Supra?

Most Mk3 Supra owners upgrade to 17" or 18" wheels. Stock wheels were 14-15". Proper fitment and measurement is crucial when upgrading wheel diameter.

What are some recommended tires for upgraded wheels?

Common performance tire recommendations for upgraded Supra wheels:

• Summer performance tires
• Ultra high-performance tires
• High-performance all-season tires

Does lowering the Supra reduce ride comfort?

Yes, lowering the Supra and stiffer suspension components will impact daily driving ride comfort. Owners need to decide if improved handling and appearance is worth increased harshness.

Why upgrade Supra brakes with bigger wheels?

Larger wheel diameters allow for bigger brake rotors to be fitted, increasing overall braking power. So upgrading both simultaneously improves performance.