1990 marked a mature moment for the third-generation Toyota Supra, a year when the platform’s grand-touring DNA felt fully dialed. The 1990 Edition kept the familiar A70 silhouette but tightened the details—powertrains, comfort, and safety—into a balanced package. Think of it as a coupe designed for long horizons, where consistency mattered as much as speed.
Development Snapshot
The third-gen Supra (A70) ran from 1986–1992, evolving from a sporty offshoot into a polished grand tourer. By 1990, the post-’89 refresh brought cleaner trim, updated lighting, and refined cabin pieces. Safety tech stepped up, with airbag availability in key markets and broader tuning of NVH for quieter cruising. It wasn’t about reinvention, but about subtle, practical polish.
| 1990 Toyota Supra: Key Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Engines | 3.0L 7M-GE (NA) ~200 hp; 3.0L 7M-GTE (Turbo) ~232 hp |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual (W58/R154) or 4-speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive with available LSD |
| Suspension | Double wishbones; TEMS adaptive damping available |
| Brakes | 4-wheel discs; ABS available |
| Body | Liftback coupe; optional Sport Roof (targa) |
| Performance | 0–60 mph ~6.6 s (Turbo, period tests) |
| Curb Weight | Approx. 3,300–3,600 lb, trim-dependent |
Design And Body
Distinctive pop-up headlights, a long hood, and a practical hatch set the tone. Inside, the cockpit leaned driver-centric with clear gauges and firm, supportive seats. The optional Sport Roof added open-air character without giving up rigidity, while the refreshed trim pieces in ’90 aimed for quieter, cleaner daily miles.
Driving Character
The naturally aspirated 7M-GE delivered smooth, linear pull; the 7M-GTE turbo brought deeper midrange muscle. Manuals (W58 for NA, R154 for Turbo) gave the car an engaging rhythm, while the 4-speed auto kept things relaxed. With TEMS, you could sharpen damping for a confident corner, then settle back on the highway. Was it a razor-edge track tool? Not quite—more a planted GT that liked big distances.
Notable 1990 Features
- Available airbag and ABS for added safety
- TEMS adaptive damping
- Sport Roof targa option
- Refined interior trim and NVH tuning
Ownership Notes
- Cooling system care helps engine longevity
- Many enthusiasts adopt updated gasket practices
- Check targa seals and hatch trim for age
- Electrical connectors appreciate periodic cleaning
Positioned above the brand’s smaller coupes, the 1990 model sat where comfort meets capability: grand-touring range, real luggage space, and performance that still feels relevant. In period tests and today’s meets, it’s appreciated for being calm, quick, and composed—hte kind of car that makes every mile feel intentional.
