Considering a Switch: From Manual Mach 1 to Supra 3.0 Premium - Seeking Advice and Dealer Recommendations

[SPMythic]

Hey gang, new to the forums. I currently own a Manual Mach 1, but I'm heavily considering swapping for a Supra. A few reasons being the MPG (I get 17 at the moment and live in Norcal, where gas is usually around $5.70 a gallon, so I am filling up a lot), commuting with a manual is indeed exhausting after a while with heavy traffic, and in case of an emergency, my wife can drive it. Plus, a few of the creature comforts are appealing. I do have a few questions, and while I have done some research on my own, it would be nice to have this post to refer to for future consideration.

1. Should I expect to pay over MSRP for a 3.0 Premium in the Bay Area? Are there any dealers that have a proven track record of charging MSRP and are easier to deal with?
2. Should I be mindful of any issues with the Supra if I buy new? Are there common parts that fail, etc.?
3. What is your long-term experience with the car? What has changed over time, interior pieces that fail, things to look out for, etc.?
4. Are there any known performance upgrades or modifications that are popular among Supra owners, and how do these affect reliability and warranty coverage?
5. Has anyone else made the swap from a V8 to the B58? If so, what do you miss about the V8 over the I6? Do you regret your purchase?
6. Are there any great dealers in the Bay Area that go above and beyond for customer service, and are willing to overlook minor mods like an exhaust, DP, and tune, etc.? I have a really good network currently for my Mustang, mechanic-wise, and a dealer that is very focused on customer care, warranty work, etc. They don't mind if it's modified with things like exhaust, springs, short throw shifter, or a tune—if something fails whilst tuned, they said to just remove the tune and bring it in. They are very clear that these are track focused cars that will be driven hard, and they honor that expectation.
7. For those who might have owned both vehicles or extensively researched them, what are the long-term cost-of-ownership differences between the two, including maintenance, repairs, and depreciation?

Edit: For Bay Area specific owners: How does the Supra 3.0 Premium handle rough road conditions and gravel roads in the Bay Area? Any issues with ground clearance or suspension? Is PPF a MUST? Overall, how would you rate the Supra's resilience and reliability in handling Bay Area road challenges, and what advice would you offer to new owners regarding road condition management?

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[bushido]

4.
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https://bimmercode.app/

by razorlab:

https://www.supramkv.com/threads/how-to-improve-oe-sub-bass-quality-and-eliminate-vibrations.5092/

https://ind-distribution.com/products/ind-a90-supra-painted-front-reflector-set

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[SPMythic]

4.
https://awe-tuning.com/products/awe-foiler-wind-diffuser-for-toyota-gr-supra

https://zl1addons.com/collections/t...a-standard-rock-guards?variant=31150515814463

https://www.amazon.com/OBDLink-Bluetooth-Professional-Grade-Diagnostic-Performance/dp/B07JFRFJG6

https://bimmercode.app/

by razorlab:

https://www.supramkv.com/threads/how-to-improve-oe-sub-bass-quality-and-eliminate-vibrations.5092/

https://ind-distribution.com/products/ind-a90-supra-painted-front-reflector-set

https://www.rexpeed.net/2012/en/product_detail.php?serial=581

https://motorsporthardware.com/prod...pra/toyota-a90-supra-spacers-and-spacer-kits/

https://motorsporthardware.com/prod...ersion-kits/toyota-a90-supra-wheel-stud-kits/

Tremendous reply! Thank you kindly.

 

[bk5]

Has anyone else made the swap from a V8 to the B56? If so, what do you miss about the V8 over the I6? Do you regret your purchase?

I had a 5.0, but it was a GT PP1. B58 beats it in every aspect except sound. The only thing I regrets is not buying the Supra sooner. The Supra handles so much better than the Mustang its insane. There are (backroads) corners that the Mustang would struggle with at 40mph that the Supra just launches through at like 50. Track tests don't do a good job highlighting how much better the Supra handles.

I do miss the Recaro seats.

For those who might have owned both vehicles or extensively researched them, what are the long-term cost-of-ownership differences between the two, including maintenance, repairs, and depreciation?

The Mustang was cheap to own, outside of the terrible fuel economy. Local Ford dealerships would do oil changes, wiper blades, air filters, etc for cheaper than I could buy the stuff at the parts store. I never really worried about leaving it there because techs drive a million of them a day and they aren't special.

Repairs were minimal and covered under warranty. I had a battery die, a rear end leak, and a water pump gasket leak.

I'm probably not going to keep getting the Supra serviced at the dealership after my Toyotacare runs out. There's only one person allowed to drive Supras at my dealership, which makes basic care like oil changes an all-day affair.

 

[rowdy]

I’ve never had the pleasure of owning a Mach 1. Beautiful car and i’m sure a joy to drive. I had a GT before trading it in for a 21” Supra 3.0 and it was a world of a difference. Mustang V8 sound is intoxicating but everything about the Supra felt like an upgrade. My mustang had been in the shop quite frequently due to various mechanical failures here and there and I haven’t had a single issue with my supra during my ownership. Only thing was the oil changes for the supra. I live in the bay area and I can tell you the front of my bumper is peppered in rock/pain chips. from a far it isn’t that noticeable but when you get close it isn’t the prettiest sight. so definitely PPF and or ceramic coat is recommended around these streets. I was very happy with my switch and haven’t regretted it one bit. Plus you no longer look like regular traffic with the massive amounts of mustangs around.

 

[SPMythic]

I had a 5.0, but it was a GT PP1. B58 beats it in every aspect except sound. The only thing I regrets is not buying the Supra sooner. The Supra handles so much better than the Mustang its insane. There are (backroads) corners that the Mustang would struggle with at 40mph that the Supra just launches through at like 50. Track tests don't do a good job highlighting how much better the Supra handles.

I do miss the Recaro seats.



The Mustang was cheap to own, outside of the terrible fuel economy. Local Ford dealerships would do oil changes, wiper blades, air filters, etc for cheaper than I could buy the stuff at the parts store. I never really worried about leaving it there because techs drive a million of them a day and they aren't special.

Repairs were minimal and covered under warranty. I had a battery die, a rear end leak, and a water pump gasket leak.

I'm probably not going to keep getting the Supra serviced at the dealership after my Toyotacare runs out. There's only one person allowed to drive Supras at my dealership, which makes basic care like oil changes an all-day affair.

I had a 5.0, but it was a GT PP1. B58 beats it in every aspect except sound. The only thing I regrets is not buying the Supra sooner. The Supra handles so much better than the Mustang its insane. There are (backroads) corners that the Mustang would struggle with at 40mph that the Supra just launches through at like 50. Track tests don't do a good job highlighting how much better the Supra handles.

I do miss the Recaro seats.



The Mustang was cheap to own, outside of the terrible fuel economy. Local Ford dealerships would do oil changes, wiper blades, air filters, etc for cheaper than I could buy the stuff at the parts store. I never really worried about leaving it there because techs drive a million of them a day and they aren't special.

Repairs were minimal and covered under warranty. I had a battery die, a rear end leak, and a water pump gasket leak.

I'm probably not going to keep getting the Supra serviced at the dealership after my Toyotacare runs out. There's only one person allowed to drive Supras at my dealership, which makes basic care like oil changes an all-day affair.

Thanks for the reply! Long-term maintenance is a plus for Mustangs since parts are plentiful. However, In regards to the Supra, I'm concerned about the long-term cost of ownership after hearing rumors of Toyota discontinuing the Supra. This raises concerns about how long Toyota will support the platform with parts. Maybe aftermarket parts will suffice, but that's a thought I've had.

 

[lucheski]

I've owned many Mustangs from Fox Bodys, two terminator Cobras built to 850+whp, Also most recently owned a C7 Z06 built 900whp. I'm from a dia hard ford family and owned many other fords.

The B58 torque does not make me miss the V8 at all. The car is agile and sounds great. I have a 2021 with Downpipe, Tune, and charge pipe. Based on dragy data it is about 450whp. It would probably out-run a mustang with 450whp.

Just to reiterate the I6 vs V8 thing, I believe a supra automatic with 700whp would equal or beat my Z06 or Terminator with 900whp, and it's not hard to make power. This platform is very underrated. Don't sleep on the B58

I noticed many dealers here in florida were trying to get 5K ADM ov er MSRP ended up buying a used 2021 with 11k miles with said mods. I wanted a car that is unlocked s ince I plan on modding quite a bit. Gas milage on 93 is great.

 

[SPMythic]

I’ve never had the pleasure of owning a Mach 1. Beautiful car and i’m sure a joy to drive. I had a GT before trading it in for a 21” Supra 3.0 and it was a world of a difference. Mustang V8 sound is intoxicating but everything about the Supra felt like an upgrade. My mustang had been in the shop quite frequently due to various mechanical failures here and there and I haven’t had a single issue with my supra during my ownership. Only thing was the oil changes for the supra. I live in the bay area and I can tell you the front of my bumper is peppered in rock/pain chips. from a far it isn’t that noticeable but when you get close it isn’t the prettiest sight. so definitely PPF and or ceramic coat is recommended around these streets. I was very happy with my switch and haven’t regretted it one bit. Plus you no longer look like regular traffic with the massive amounts of mustangs around.

My mustang needed a clutch pedal assembly replacement, rear axle seal replacement, oil pan replacement (was leaking oil) and a few other repairs. It really put a sour taste in my mouth for long term ownership. The V8 absolutely sounds incredible, but gets abysmal gas mileage. Thanks for the reply, if I do go with a Supra I will absolutely get PPF first thing!

 

[SPMythic]

I've owned many Mustangs from Fox Bodys, two terminator Cobras built to 850+whp, Also most recently owned a C7 Z06 built 900whp. I'm from a dia hard ford family and owned many other fords.

The B58 torque does not make me miss the V8 at all. The car is agile and sounds great. I have a 2021 with Downpipe, Tune, and charge pipe. Based on dragy data it is about 450whp. It would probably out-run a mustang with 450whp.

Just to reiterate the I6 vs V8 thing, I believe a supra automatic with 700whp would equal or beat my Z06 or Terminator with 900whp, and it's not hard to make power. This platform is very underrated. Don't sleep on the B58

I noticed many dealers here in florida were trying to get 5K ADM ov er MSRP ended up buying a used 2021 with 11k miles with said mods. I wanted a car that is unlocked s ince I plan on modding quite a bit. Gas milage on 93 is great.

Super interesting perspective, and thank you for posting! The only other car I have been looking at (maybe you can appreciate) is a GT350. Would cost the same to upgrade to that car as it would a brand new Supra (w/ trade in). Given those two options, would you still pick a Supra?

 

[94boosted]

I'm coming from a Camaro SS 1LE to the Supra, and while I do really enjoy the Supra it's not all an improvement. Supra is soft, the adaptive dampers are a joke when compared with the Magnetomagical dampers in the Camaro (I think Mach 1 gets very similar dampers). Also, I'd take the Tremec T6060 MT in the Camaro/Mach 1 over the GS6L50TZ in the Supra any day of the week, as the shifter feels better (IMO) and the trans/clutch is bulletproof.

With the Supra being much smaller, with a shorter wheelbase and obviously being lighter, coupled with the B58, which is one helluva an engine, it is a great car though.

 

[puzzled]

On my car the auto panty dropping feature never worked..

 

[SPMythic]

I'm coming from a Camaro SS 1LE to the Supra, and while I do really enjoy the Supra it's not all an improvement. Supra is soft, the adaptive dampers are a joke when compared with the Magnetomagical dampers in the Camaro (I think Mach 1 gets very similar dampers). Also, I'd take the Tremec T6060 MT in the Camaro/Mach 1 over the GS6L50TZ in the Supra any day of the week, as the shifter feels better (IMO) and the trans/clutch is bulletproof.

With the Supra being much smaller, with a shorter wheelbase and obviously being lighter, coupled with the B58, which is one helluva an engine, it is a great car though.

Do you regret your decision at all? Those are pretty substantial differences! What you lost in driving experience, what do you feel you’ve gained?

 

[94boosted]

Do you regret your decision at all? Those are pretty substantial differences! What you lost in driving experience, what do you feel you’ve gained?

Tough question. In terms of performance they're pretty much equal, keep in mind the Supra comes on ancient Michelin PSS's from the factory, on decent tires it's easily as fast as the SS 1LE/Mach 1 on track. The Camaro has atrocious outward visibility, that was the single biggest thing (only thing?) I hated about the car, that's much improved in the Supra. Also being smaller/lighter means it's cheaper on fuel and consumables (mine is primarily and autocross car with some track & street driving mixed in). The average person can't tell a V6 Rental Grade Camaro/Mustang apart from a more special edition (1LE, Mach 1, GT PP2, 350(R), etc.), making them a dime a dozen, in that aspect the Supra is very cool as it's a head turner, due to it being pretty rare.

Do I regret the decision? No. Though, if the new Dark Horse wasn't somehow nearly 4000lbs, I would have likely gone that way

 

[bk5]

I'm coming from a Camaro SS 1LE to the Supra, and while I do really enjoy the Supra it's not all an improvement.

Oh, the Camaro SS 1LE is in another league compared to the Mustang. Sure, they benchmark about the same in reviews, but there are tons of intangibles that are better in the Camaro. You can tell that Ford engineers are merely chasing the numbers the Camaro made, but not really appreciating why it's still a better car.

The biggest problem with owning a Camaro is that it's going to be stolen at some point.

 

[Vertex]

So I actually came from an A10 Mach 1 with handling pack and only thing I didn't have were the Recaro seats and navigation.

To put this very simply the only thing I miss about the Mach 1 outside of how it looked(Supra has it beat IMO in looks dept however) is the exhaust notes/sound of the engine. That is honestly the only thing I greatly miss about the Mach 1. I guess the interior lighting was kind've neat as well and how it was integrated but honestly that just doesn't matter much to me. Storage space I guess was one other thing but typically I'm not hauling that much stuff in the car.

Everything else about the Supra is better though IMO. I put a little over 20,000 rounds on the Mach 1 and I've put about 7000 on the Supra since I've had it. Car has been perfect with 0 issues since I've owned it. My good buddy also has one that he has racked up over 35,000 miles with 0 issues as well. I am averaging about 30mpg cause I have a 30 mile commute one way to work if I drive it and half of it is hwy and about half city driving. At hwy speeds (68-73 around here is my typical cruise speed) and I see around 36mpg or so. Car handles better than the Mach 1 and you can feel it, despite it having lower power and torque the car is not slower than the Mach 1 and is actually faster or feels much quicker than the Mach 1 as well.

As far as upgrades I coded out the auto start stop which is provided in the spreadsheet above as well as just doing the proximity lock/unlock to the car as well. I tried toggling off the fake engine noise but it's far to quiet in the car without exhaust which I plan on getting soonish. I did also upgrade the support bar that is inside the car and replaced the front sway bar with an eibach one. Lastly I went with AWE wind foiler/diffusers for the wind buffeting issue. Those are the only upgrades I've done so far and just have yet to do exhaust and wheels. May do more but currently those are my only ones on my list.

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