1987 Toyota Supra Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Toyota Supra
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1989 Toyota Supra earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (7m-gte head gasket) (major severity).
- No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 1987 model year.
1987 Toyota Supra: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Toyota Supra is a compelling classic JDM sports car, but its age and a notorious engine design flaw demand significant caution from prospective buyers. If you can secure a meticulously maintained example with a documented head gasket service, particularly for the turbocharged 7M-GTE, it can be a rewarding and engaging ownership experience. However, an unaddressed head gasket issue or neglected maintenance will quickly spiral into substantial repair costs and frustration.
The 1987 Toyota Supra is a fantastic classic, but it's now a 37-year-old performance car. Its specific engine weaknesses (7M-GTE head gasket) and the inevitable wear of time mean a meticulous pre-purchase inspection and a significant budget for deferred maintenance are non-negotiable. Only proceed if you're prepared…
Best Model Years
Later MA70 Supra model years (1989-1992) often benefited from minor revisions, including a factory head gasket fix. However, for a 1987, focus on documented maintenance.
Years to Avoid
Any 7M-GTE model year (1987-1992) that does not have clear documentation of a head gasket replacement with upgraded components.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust overall chassis and drivetrain (manuals)
- Strong aftermarket support for performance parts
- Timeless, iconic Japanese sports car styling
1987 Toyota Supra — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Toyota Supra, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 7M-GTE turbocharged engine is prone to head gasket failure, often due to inadequate factory torque settings on the head bolts. This leads to coolant consumption, overheating, and eventually internal engine damage if not addressed. Ea…
The CT26 turbocharger, while robust for its time, suffers from wear over decades. Bearing play, oil leaks, and wastegate issues are common. A failing turbo can contaminate the intercooler system and lead to costly repairs or replacements.
The original wiring harnesses can become brittle and suffer from insulation breakdown due to heat and age. Common failures include sensors (TPS, MAF, O2), power window motors, power antenna, and dashboard illumination issues. ECU capacit…
1987 Toyota Supra Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Toyota Supra most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most issues would point to a 'lemon' or severe neglect. Focus on basic fluid changes and ensuring no early head gasket warning signs on 7M-GTEs.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage should trigger the critical timing belt and water pump service. For 7M-GTEs, an early head gasket failure is possible if not addressed, so this is a crucial inspection point.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect significant wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints) and potential for turbocharger issues on 7M-GTEs. Head gasket issues are highly probable if not previously fixed.
High Risk Zone
At this point, a comprehensive review of all systems is mandatory. Assume all rubber components, original shocks, and many electrical sensors are due for replacement. Major engine/transmission work is a possibility if maintenance has bee…
1987 Toyota Supra Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Toyota Supra on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-1,000 (for a well-maintained example, excluding major repairs)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension refresh, electrical fixes)
How Long Does the 1987 Toyota Supra Last?
For any 1987 Supra, low mileage isn't necessarily a guarantee of condition; focus more on documented maintenance history and the car's overall current state, as age-related issues transcend mileage.
What 1987 Toyota Supra Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Engaging driving dynamics, especially the turbocharged models
- Timeless and distinctive JDM styling that turns heads
- Strong aftermarket support for modifications and restoration
- Comfortable cruiser with a surprisingly spacious interior for a coupe
Common Frustrations
- Notorious 7M-GTE head gasket issue causes significant anxiety and cost
- Parts availability for some specific items is becoming challenging
- Interior plastics (especially the dashboard) are prone to cracking and fading
- Fuel economy is not a strong suit, particularly for turbo models
Who Should Buy the 1987 Toyota Supra?
Best For
- JDM enthusiasts seeking a classic Japanese sports car icon
- DIY mechanics comfortable with older vehicle systems
- Collectors looking for a rewarding weekend cruiser
Not Ideal For
- Those seeking a trouble-free daily driver
- Budget-conscious buyers with no room for unexpected repairs
How the 1987 Toyota Supra Compares to Rivals
The Supra generally holds its own against other 80s sports coupes, often offering better long-term mechanical resilience than its European rivals, but it lacks the bulletproof reputation of Toyota's simpler, non-performance offerings.
More Reliable Than
- Porsche 944 (generally lower running costs and higher reliability)
- BMW E30 3-Series (often more complex electricals, higher part costs)
- Alfa Romeo GTV6 (significantly more prone to electrical and mechanical woes)
Comparable To
- Nissan 300ZX (Z31 generation - similar age-related issues)
- Mazda RX-7 (FC generation - different engine issues, but similar overall reliability challenges)
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Toyota Supra
No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 1987 Toyota Supra. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.
What breaks on the 1987 Toyota Supra?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Toyota Supra? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Toyota Supra — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Toyota Supra. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Toyota Supra
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Toyota Supra
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Toyota Supra? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Toyota Supra's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Toyota Supra
Toyota RAV4 Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive Toyota RAV4 worst-to-best ranking to identify years to avoid and find the most reliable models for your next purchase.
Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Which Lasts Longer?
Get the definitive answer: Which truly lasts longer, the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner? Our comparison reveals their long-term durability.
Toyota Tacoma Common Problems and Repair Costs
Find common Toyota Tacoma problems and their average repair costs, vital information for current owners and future buyers to save money.