The Supra was introduced in 1979 as part of the Celica line.  Its style was based on the Celica's popular lift-back design.  The body was both wider and longer, but the engine was what made the Supra stand out.  The Supra was the first Toyota car with electronic fuel injection.  It came with 4 wheel independent suspension and disc brakes.  It was also available in either manual or automatic transmission.
Besides minor interior changes the Supra was unchanged until 1981.  In 1981 the Supra was given a new 4-speed transmission and drive gearing.  It was given a 2.8 liter single overhead cam engine and sport suspension.  In 1982 the Supra was totally redesigned.  It was made into two different models, L-type and Performance.  Its engine was upgraded to a dual overhead cam.  The L-type and the Performance model were both mechanically the same.  The main differences were fender flares and wider tires and wheels.  Small changes were made on the 1984 model.  They were just small engine modifications on the manual transmission.  The next big change was in 1986.5.  It was equipped with a 3.0 liter engine.  In 1987 there was a turbocharged model available with anti-lock brakes.  These Supras were also available with a targa roof.    

There were just minor changes until 1993, the Supra became a super car.  It was available in turbo and non-turbo models.  The car was now all about performance, it was lightened in a lot of ways, it was lightened so much that the carpet fibers were hollow.  Now with 320 horse power it could do 0-60 in under 5 seconds.  It had a top speed of 155mph.  Once again the Supra was unchanged, until 1996.  In 96 emissions forced the Supra's 6-speed transmission to be dropped and an electronic 4-speed was put in.  In 1997 the 6-speed returned.  97 Supras were sold as 15th anniversary models and given small trim changes.  Plus the frame was strengthened.
In 1998, due to emissions, no turbo models would be available in California.  Variable Valve timing added 5 horsepower and a limited slip differential was added.  On all Toyota Supras the head unit (CD player) was modified.  In 1999 the Toyota Supra ceased production.

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The name Supra means "surpass" or go beyond.