For car enthusiasts, there’s something inherently exhilarating about a coupe. The low-slung profile, the sculpted lines, and the promise of performance make these cars more than just a means of transportation—they’re a statement. In the United States, Asian automakers have been offering a range of coupes that cover the full spectrum from accessible sportiness to high-end luxury. Let’s buckle up and dive into the details of these Asian coupes, complete with performance specs like horsepower and 0-60 mph times, and a summary table for a quick comparison.
Asian Coupes Inviting Thrill-Seekers
Toyota GR86
The Toyota GR86 starts our list with an appealing price point of $29,495. With a 2.4-liter boxer engine, it pushes out around 228 horsepower, capable of propelling you from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds. This rear-wheel-drive (RWD) coupe is celebrated for its balanced handling and driver-focused experience.
Subaru BRZ
Its close cousin, the Subaru BRZ, shares much with the GR86, including its powertrain and performance figures, thanks to a partnership between the two manufacturers. Starting at $29,615, the BRZ offers a similar driving pleasure with a slightly different styling and tuning philosophy.
The Mid-Range Powerhouse Asian Coupes
Nissan Z
Climbing the price and performance ladder, we reach the Nissan Z. With a starting MSRP of $43,305, this heritage-rich model delivers modern thrills with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine that belts out approximately 400 horsepower, and it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds. It’s a blend of classic design cues and contemporary performance.
Lexus RC
In the luxury sports coupe segment, the Lexus RC stands out with a starting price of $45,820. With its range offering up to 311 horsepower in the RC 350, this coupe delivers a sophisticated driving experience with a respectable 0-60 time that falls in the low 5-second range.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra, the iconic nameplate that has made a fierce comeback, is priced from $46,635. The top trims sport a turbocharged inline-6 engine with a maximum of 382 horsepower, translating to a brisk 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds. This coupe is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to high-performance engineering.
Asian Coupes at the Apex of Sport and Splendor
Lexus RC F
At the pinnacle of sporty luxury, the Lexus RC F emerges with a heart-thumping 472 horsepower V8, a launch from 0 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds, and a price tag starting at $68,195.00. It represents a more aggressive and performance-focused evolution of the RC line.
Lexus LC
At the zenith of luxury, we find the Lexus LC with a starting MSRP of $99,050. This grand tourer is not just about looks; with up to 471 horsepower from its V8 engine, the LC can achieve the 0 to 60 dash in about 4.4 seconds. It’s the epitome of a luxury sports coupe that offers both comfort and speed.
Nissan GT-R
The legendary Nissan GT-R, with a starting point of $122,885, remains a technological tour de force. Often nicknamed “Godzilla”, the GT-R’s twin-turbo V6 can produce up to 565 horsepower, and in its NISMO version, even more. It blasts from 0 to 60 mph in a neck-snapping 2.9 seconds, keeping its reputation as a supercar slayer intact.
Quick Reference Table:
| Model | Starting MSRP | Top MSRP | Max Horsepower | 0-60 mph (seconds) |
| Toyota GR86 | $29,495 | $36,955 | 228 | 6.1 |
| Subaru BRZ | $29,615 | $33,815 | 228 | 6.1 |
| Nissan Z | $43,305 | $66,085 | 400 | 4.3 |
| Lexus RC | $45,820 | $55,095 | 311 (RC 350) | 5.8 |
| Toyota GR Supra | $46,635 | $65,470 | 382 | 3.9 |
| Lexus RC F | $68,195 | $101,070 | 472 | 4.2 |
| Lexus LC | $99,050 | $102,350 | 471 | 4.4 |
| Nissan GT-R | $122,885 | $222,885 | 565 | 2.9 |
Estimates based on available data; please check with the manufacturer for the most current information.
Wrapping It Up
In essence, this lineup of Asian coupes showcases a varied approach to the two-door formula. From the grounded excitement of the GR86 and BRZ to the unparalleled prowess of the GT-R and the refined grandeur of the LC and RC F, these vehicles offer distinct flavors of driving delight. What binds them is their shared heritage of precision engineering and an undying commitment to the joy of the drive. Which coupe would you pick for your next exhilarating journey?
AutoByPayment.com offers accurate estimates of new and used car loan payments based on self-selected credit score, current rebates, down payment, and trade equity or negative equity, without customers having to provide their personal identifying information such as email and phone.