Introduced in 1979 as a top-line Celica, the Toyota Supra became a separate model line in 1986 and offered a turbocharged engine option a year later. Today's Supra debuted in 1993, and it marked a major change in philosophy from that of its predecessor: luxury gave way to ultimate performance. Horsepower went up, and weight reduction measures went about as far as they could go, including hollow carpet fibers and a hollow rear spoiler. The Supra Turbo is capable of sub-five-second 0-60 mph times and its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. As the new-car market has changed, the Supra's primary competitors from Nissan and Mazda have disappeared from the U.S. The 1998 Supra features added power for the non-turbo trim.
The 1998 Toyota Supra is available in three trims: Supra (base), Sport Roof and Turbo. Standard safety features include dual airbags and an anti-lock brake system (ABS). The base and Sport Roof models have a 225-horsepower in-line 6-cylinder engine, while the Turbo sports a powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine that puts out 320 horsepower. Standard equipment on all trims includes air conditioning, cruise control; a tilt steering wheel; power windows, door locks and mirrors; and a theft-deterrent system. The Sport Roof model adds a removable roof, leather sport seats, a power driver's seat, and a premium AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player. The Turbo upgrades with a sport-tuned suspension, traction control, a 6-speed manual transmission, and 17-inch polished aluminum alloy wheels. \par }