The Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S, known as the Toyota 86 in some markets, have always been celebrated for their exceptional handling, balanced chassis, and driver-focused experience. However, one common critique has been their modest power output from the factory. For enthusiasts craving more adrenaline, turbocharging these nimble sports cars has become a popular modification. This article delves into the world of turbocharged BRZs and FR-Ss, exploring how forced induction impacts their top speed and overall performance.

Understanding the Base Performance

Before diving into the specifics of turbocharging, it's essential to understand the baseline performance figures of the stock BRZ/FR-S. Equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four engine, these cars produce around 200 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While these figures might not seem staggering, the BRZ/FR-S compensates with its lightweight construction and near-perfect weight distribution, making it incredibly fun to drive on twisty roads. In terms of top speed, the stock BRZ/FR-S typically reaches around 135-140 mph, depending on factors such as gearing, wind resistance, and road conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph usually takes around 6.2 to 6.8 seconds. These numbers are respectable for an entry-level sports car, but many owners seek to enhance the performance to unlock the car's full potential. The appeal of the BRZ and FR-S lies not just in raw speed, but in the overall driving experience. The direct steering, responsive throttle, and communicative chassis make it a joy to drive even at moderate speeds. However, the allure of more power is undeniable, especially for those who frequent track days or simply desire a more exhilarating driving experience. Turbocharging offers a significant boost in both horsepower and torque, transforming the car's character and performance capabilities. The installation of a turbocharger fundamentally alters the engine's behavior. By forcing more air into the cylinders, the engine can burn more fuel, resulting in a substantial increase in power output. This modification not only improves acceleration and top speed but also enhances the car's responsiveness and overall drivability. The process of turbocharging involves several key components working in harmony. The turbocharger itself is a turbine driven by exhaust gases. As the exhaust gases spin the turbine, it compresses the intake air, forcing it into the engine. An intercooler is typically used to cool the compressed air, as cooler air is denser and contains more oxygen, further enhancing combustion. Proper engine management is crucial to ensure that the engine runs efficiently and reliably with the added boost. This often involves upgrading the fuel injectors, fuel pump, and ECU (Engine Control Unit) to handle the increased fuel and air requirements. The transformation from a naturally aspirated engine to a turbocharged one is profound. The increase in power is immediately noticeable, providing a more thrilling and engaging driving experience. The added torque makes the car more responsive at lower RPMs, improving its everyday usability. On the track, the turbocharged BRZ/FR-S can achieve significantly faster lap times, showcasing the true potential of this platform with forced induction. The decision to turbocharge a BRZ/FR-S is a significant one, requiring careful consideration of the costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks. While the increase in performance is undeniable, it's essential to ensure that the modification is done correctly to maintain the car's reliability and longevity. With the right setup and tuning, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S can deliver an exhilarating driving experience that surpasses the capabilities of the stock car.

Impact of Turbocharging on Top Speed

When a turbocharger is added to a Subaru BRZ or Scion FR-S, the most noticeable change is the increase in horsepower and torque. This directly translates to a higher top speed. Depending on the size of the turbocharger, the boost pressure, and the overall tuning, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S can see its top speed increase to well over 150 mph, and in some cases, even exceeding 170 mph. The actual top speed achieved depends on several factors, including the specific turbo kit used, the quality of the installation, and the expertise of the tuner. A well-designed turbo kit will provide a smooth and linear power delivery, ensuring that the engine operates efficiently and reliably. The tuning process involves adjusting the engine's parameters to optimize performance while maintaining safe operating conditions. This includes adjusting the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and boost levels. A poorly tuned engine can suffer from detonation, overheating, and other issues that can lead to engine damage. Therefore, it's crucial to work with a reputable tuner who has experience with turbocharged BRZs and FR-Ss. In addition to the turbocharger itself, other modifications may be necessary to support the increased power output. These include upgrading the fuel injectors and fuel pump to ensure that the engine receives adequate fuel. A larger intercooler may also be needed to keep the intake air temperatures down, as cooler air is denser and contains more oxygen, resulting in improved combustion. The exhaust system may also need to be upgraded to reduce backpressure and allow the engine to breathe more freely. The combination of these modifications can significantly enhance the performance of the turbocharged BRZ/FR-S, allowing it to reach higher top speeds and accelerate more quickly. However, it's important to remember that increasing the power output of the engine can also put more stress on other components, such as the drivetrain and suspension. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that these components are also upgraded to handle the increased power. This may involve upgrading the clutch, transmission, and differential. The suspension may also need to be upgraded to improve handling and stability at higher speeds. The overall goal is to create a balanced and well-integrated package that maximizes performance without compromising reliability. The increase in top speed is just one aspect of the improved performance of a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S. The added horsepower and torque also result in significantly improved acceleration. The car can reach higher speeds more quickly, making it more fun to drive on both the street and the track. The improved responsiveness of the engine also makes it more enjoyable to drive in everyday situations. The turbocharged BRZ/FR-S is a true sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience. The added power and performance make it a more capable and versatile machine, allowing it to excel in a variety of driving conditions. Whether you're looking to improve your lap times at the track or simply want a more engaging driving experience on the street, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S is a great option. With the right modifications and tuning, you can unlock the full potential of this already impressive sports car. The transformation from a naturally aspirated engine to a turbocharged one is profound, resulting in a significant increase in power, performance, and overall driving enjoyment.

Factors Affecting Top Speed

Several factors influence the top speed of a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S, including:

• Turbocharger Size and Type: Larger turbos generally produce more power at higher RPMs, leading to a higher top speed, but they may also suffer from turbo lag at lower RPMs. Smaller turbos offer quicker spool-up and better low-end torque, but may not provide as much top-end power.
• Boost Pressure: Increasing the boost pressure forces more air into the engine, resulting in more power. However, excessive boost can lead to engine damage if not properly managed.
• Engine Tuning: Proper engine tuning is crucial to ensure that the engine runs efficiently and reliably with the added boost. This includes adjusting the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and other parameters to optimize performance.
• Aerodynamics: Aerodynamic modifications, such as spoilers and diffusers, can reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds, allowing the car to reach a higher top speed.
• Gearing: The gearing of the transmission and differential affects the car's acceleration and top speed. Shorter gearing provides quicker acceleration, while taller gearing allows for a higher top speed.
• Tire Selection: The tires play a crucial role in traction and handling, especially at high speeds. High-performance tires with good grip are essential for maximizing top speed and ensuring safe handling.

The interplay of these elements dictates the final top speed. For example, a BRZ/FR-S with a large turbo, high boost pressure, and aggressive tuning may achieve a very high top speed, but it may also be less drivable in everyday situations due to turbo lag. On the other hand, a BRZ/FR-S with a smaller turbo, lower boost pressure, and more conservative tuning may not have as high of a top speed, but it will be more responsive and enjoyable to drive on the street. The key is to find a balance that suits your individual needs and preferences. Aerodynamics also play a significant role in determining top speed. As the car's speed increases, the amount of drag increases exponentially. Therefore, reducing drag can have a significant impact on top speed. Spoilers and diffusers can help to reduce drag by smoothing out the airflow around the car. These modifications can also improve stability at high speeds, making the car more predictable and easier to control. Gearing is another important factor to consider. Shorter gearing provides quicker acceleration, but it also limits the car's top speed. Taller gearing allows for a higher top speed, but it also reduces acceleration. The ideal gearing depends on the car's intended use. For example, a car that is primarily used for track days may benefit from shorter gearing, while a car that is primarily used for highway driving may benefit from taller gearing. Tire selection is also crucial for maximizing top speed and ensuring safe handling. High-performance tires with good grip are essential for maintaining traction at high speeds. The tires should also be properly inflated to ensure optimal performance. In addition to these factors, the overall condition of the car can also affect its top speed. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and produce more power. A car with worn suspension components may not handle as well at high speeds. Therefore, it's important to keep the car in good condition to ensure optimal performance. The process of optimizing a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S for top speed is a complex one that requires careful consideration of all these factors. The key is to find a balance that suits your individual needs and preferences. With the right modifications and tuning, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S can achieve impressive top speeds and provide an exhilarating driving experience.

Real-World Examples and Results

Numerous examples showcase the potential of turbocharged BRZs and FR-Ss. Online forums, track days, and tuning shops often feature builds with documented top speed runs. For instance, some enthusiasts have reported achieving top speeds of 160-175 mph with properly tuned turbo kits and supporting modifications. These results often come with detailed specifications of the turbo kit used, boost levels, engine management systems, and other relevant modifications. These real-world examples provide valuable insights into the performance capabilities of turbocharged BRZs and FR-Ss. They also highlight the importance of proper installation and tuning. A poorly installed turbo kit or a poorly tuned engine can result in reduced performance and even engine damage. Therefore, it's crucial to work with experienced professionals who have a proven track record of success. The cost of turbocharging a BRZ/FR-S can vary depending on the quality of the components used and the complexity of the installation. A basic turbo kit can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000, while a more comprehensive kit with supporting modifications can cost upwards of $10,000. The installation cost can also vary depending on the shop performing the work. It's important to get quotes from several different shops before making a decision. In addition to the cost of the turbo kit and installation, there are also ongoing maintenance costs to consider. Turbocharged engines typically require more frequent oil changes and other maintenance procedures. Therefore, it's important to factor these costs into your budget before deciding to turbocharge your BRZ/FR-S. Despite the costs, many enthusiasts believe that the benefits of turbocharging outweigh the drawbacks. The added power and performance can transform the car into a true sports car that is capable of competing with much more expensive vehicles. The improved responsiveness of the engine also makes it more enjoyable to drive in everyday situations. Whether you're looking to improve your lap times at the track or simply want a more engaging driving experience on the street, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S is a great option. With the right modifications and tuning, you can unlock the full potential of this already impressive sports car. The transformation from a naturally aspirated engine to a turbocharged one is profound, resulting in a significant increase in power, performance, and overall driving enjoyment. The real-world examples and results demonstrate that turbocharging a BRZ/FR-S can be a worthwhile investment for those who are looking to take their car's performance to the next level. However, it's important to do your research and work with experienced professionals to ensure that the modification is done correctly and safely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, turbocharging a Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S can significantly enhance its top speed and overall performance. While the stock models offer a balanced and enjoyable driving experience, the addition of a turbocharger can unlock a new level of exhilaration. However, it's crucial to consider all the factors involved, including the cost, potential risks, and the need for professional installation and tuning. With the right approach, a turbocharged BRZ/FR-S can become a formidable sports car, offering both thrilling performance and a unique driving experience.