The Toyota Supra Mk3, or A70, often finds itself in the shadow of its iconic successor, the MK4. Yet, for true JDM enthusiasts and those with an eye for classic automotive design, the MK3 holds a unique and undeniable appeal. This particular JZA70 Supra, owned by Sasatani-san in Japan, perfectly encapsulates why this generation is not just cool, but perhaps even cooler than its descendants in the eyes of many.
Having spent time immersed in Japan’s vibrant car culture, the MK3 Supra’s presence is consistently striking. While the 90s-era MK4 and the modern MK5 both have their merits, there’s something about the A70’s sharp lines and 80s flair that exudes a different kind of cool. Perhaps it’s a nostalgic nod to the era of Knight Rider, or maybe it’s simply the MK3’s distinctive design that sets it apart in a sea of modern and classic sports cars. This feature car, a wide-body variant with the potent 2.5L twin-turbocharged 1JZ-GTE engine, represents the pinnacle of the MK3 evolution, making it a truly desirable model for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Allure of the Widebody MK3 Supra
This specific A70 Supra isn’t just any MK3; it’s a factory widebody model, a feature that immediately sets it apart. Coupled with the legendary 2.5L 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine under the hood, this variant represents the ultimate iteration of the third-generation Supra. For those in the know, the 1JZ-GTE is synonymous with robust performance and tuning potential, making it a sought-after engine within the JDM community.
Sasatani-san’s Supra MK3 is a prime example of how a well-preserved and tastefully modified example can elevate the model’s appeal even further. Before Sasatani-san acquired it, this Supra had been in storage for an extended period, boasting an incredibly low mileage of only 20,000km. While the original black paint was still presentable, the years of inactivity had taken a toll on the mechanical components. This presented Sasatani-san with a blank canvas, an opportunity to refresh and personalize the MK3 to his vision.
From Parked Project to Personal Masterpiece
Like many car enthusiasts, Sasatani-san’s automotive journey included a diverse range of vehicles before arriving at the Supra MK3. His past cars, including an Accord, Odyssey, front-wheel drive AE92 Trueno, Toyota Crown, and even a wingless Subaru WRX STI, showcased a varied taste. While not inherently bad cars, none truly resonated with Sasatani-san’s personal style and driving preferences. He gravitated towards the idea of a comfortable and stylish GT cruiser, and the MK3 Supra emerged as the perfect platform.
For Sasatani-san, the MK3 Supra wasn’t about chasing lap times or peak horsepower figures. Unlike the later MK4, which became a tuner icon, the MK3, even in its Group A racing days, was considered heavier and less competitive against rivals like the Nissan Skyline GT-R. This history actually aligns perfectly with Sasatani-san’s vision: style and cruising comfort over outright speed.
Custom Touches that Define the Build
Sasatani-san’s rebuild was comprehensive, touching every aspect of the Supra MK3. Subtle custom modifications, like the seamlessly integrated rear spoiler, demonstrate a keen eye for detail. The metallic green paint, borrowed from the Daihatsu Hustler kei car, is an unexpected yet brilliant choice. This OEM color trend, also seen on other Japanese builds like Madlane’s E30 M3, adds a unique flavor while maintaining a sense of factory-level quality. It’s a testament to Japanese car culture, perhaps reflecting a desire for subtle individuality or simply a smart cost-saving measure at the paint shop.
Beyond cars, Sasatani-san’s professional life also revolves around design. As a designer of garages and landscaped gardens, his aesthetic sensibilities naturally extend to his automotive passion. His company, Slybucks Design, encompasses both garden and wheel design, with both departments reflecting a shared philosophy of organic, repeating patterns that feel both natural and futuristic.
Luxurious Interior and Refined Power
Opening the long, shark-nosed hood reveals an equally meticulous engine bay. The 1JZ-GTE has been completely overhauled, presenting as if brand new. Cruising through Osaka, the engine’s smooth power delivery and ample torque are perfectly suited for daily driving and comfortable cruising. For a car intended as a stylish daily driver and date-night vehicle, the refined power and smooth operation are ideal, avoiding the unnecessary noise and attention that more extreme builds might attract.
Stepping inside the Supra MK3 reveals an interior transformed into a haven of luxury. Just as one wouldn’t furnish a high-end apartment with cheap materials, Sasatani-san understood that the interior needed to match the exterior’s sophistication. The original 90s plastic trim and potentially worn seats were replaced with sumptuous Alcantara, expertly fitted by 9010design.
This dedication to comfort extends to the trunk, which houses a high-end sound system from Onu Factory and an air suspension system from Praxis Japan. While practicality might take a backseat to audio fidelity and adjustable ride height, the result is a MK3 Supra that prioritizes the owner’s enjoyment and cruising experience.
Supra’s Enduring Versatility
Sasatani-san’s Supra MK3 beautifully illustrates the model’s inherent versatility. While Skyline GT-Rs are often associated with a specific race-bred, track-focused image, the Supra lineage, across all generations, embraces a broader spectrum of styles and modifications. From track monsters to luxurious GT cruisers, the Supra MK3, and the Supra nameplate in general, proves adaptable to diverse automotive visions. This build is a testament to the enduring cool of the Supra MK3 and its potential to be reimagined for a new era.
Toby Thyer Instagram _tobinsta_ tobythyer.co.uk
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