With automakers, tradition and legacy is a BIG deal when it comes to all-new products. Not just from a marketing perspective but also through the lens of product development. Hell, Porsche is essentially a brand built solely on legacy and its storied past.
That saying "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," exists for a good reason.
When Volkswagen introduced the MKV GTI it spoke about a return to the roots of the MKI GTI, when BMW introduced the 1-Series it continuously brought up the 2002, and now Toyota is ready to introduce the Scion FR-S and it is evoking the spirit of the S800. Cue the sound of a record being scratched.
While VW and BMW spoke of widely known products that still burn fire in loyalist's hearts, the S800 is a car that was never shipped outside of Japan. Only a little more than 3,100 examples were created. The good news though is that it does share some traits with the FR-S as it also features a boxer engine, emphasized lightweight construction and agility, and also was considered an "economy" car.
That said, we're curious if you think this was a GENIUS move or a bit of a STRETCH when it comes to comparing the S800 to the FR-S.
TOYOTA 86 on the road, test drive behind the scenes.