10 Performance Upgrades To Prepare Your Supra for Racing

A silver Toyota Supra is on display at an auto convention and surrounded by display flags and tents.

Tuners and semi-professional racers have long adored the Toyota GR Supra for its impressive performance and ability to act as a blank canvas for racing upgrades and modifications. If you’re looking to prepare your Supra for racing, we’ve got some performance upgrades you need to consider.

#1. High-Performance Turbocharger

One of the most effective upgrades for enhancing vehicle performance is installing a high-performance turbocharger. This component optimizes airflow and boosts pressure, leading to improved engine responsiveness and power delivery.

Turbochargers also feature lightweight materials and variable geometry, which enhance their performance and adaptability across different driving conditions. Whether you’re looking to improve your Supra’s speed on the track or increase its power for daily driving, investing in a quality turbocharger can make a significant difference in your vehicle’s capabilities.

#2. Stronger Internal Components

To accommodate the increased power and pressure generated by the turbocharger, you should also upgrade the internal components of your engine. This involves replacing stock parts with high-performance alternatives that can withstand the additional strain. We recommend pairing the turbocharger with forged pistons and connecting rods, as they can handle the added stress associated with higher horsepower.

Forged pistons are stronger and provide better thermal resistance, which helps in managing the heat produced during intense driving. Similarly, upgraded connecting rods ensure the engine can efficiently transfer power without compromising durability.

#3. Upgraded Fuel System

An upgraded fuel system is a great enhancement for your Supra. High-flow fuel injectors boost the fuel delivery to the engine, ensuring it receives the optimal amount of fuel for combustion.

A high-pressure fuel pump is also a good idea for improving performance, as it maintains fuel pressure. This is especially important when your Supra’s engine is working harder to sustain higher power levels. This combination not only supports increased horsepower but also improves overall engine responsiveness and reliability. It’s a smart investment for serious drivers!

A yellow 2018 Toyota Supra is stopped in a parking lot. The focus is on the front bumper and headlight.

#4. ECU Remap

To harness the benefits of your upgrades, consider complementing them with an engine control unit (ECU) remap or a standalone ECU upgrade. An ECU is the brain of the engine, managing fuel delivery and ignition timing. Upgrading to a more advanced ECU will optimize these functions and give you greater control over your vehicle’s performance parameters. This allows for fine-tuning based on specific driving conditions and personal preferences, maximizing your Supra’s potential on the track.

#5. Adjustable Coilover Kits

Coilover kits offer adjustable ride height, damping, and spring rates. You can fine-tune your Supra’s handling characteristics for optimal performance. By adjusting these parameters, you’ll achieve better weight distribution and control, which are essential during high-speed cornering.

#6. Sway Bars and Strut Braces

Sway bars and strut braces reduce body roll during cornering, which supports tire contact with the road. These components also enhance chassis rigidity, minimize flex, and improve stability. As a result, drivers experience a more responsive and controlled driving experience, allowing for sharper handling and increased confidence on winding roads and high-speed turns.

#7. Performance Clutch

The clutch is the hero of a high-performance vehicle, transmitting power from the engine to the drivetrain. For racing applications, a stock clutch simply won’t cut it. Consider upgrading to something more advanced to handle the additional power transfer of your upgraded Supra, such as a double-disc clutch.

A multi-disc clutch system can handle high torque, provide quick and precise engagement, offer better heat dissipation, and last longer under racing conditions.

A hand is grabbing a high-performance automotive clutch underneath a lifted car during clutch installation.

#8. High-Performance Tires

A simple performance upgrade to prepare your Supra for racing is the tires. Tires are the only contact point between your car and the road, making them critical upgrades for racing Supras.

High-performance tires offer superior grip and traction, enabling you to make the most of your car’s power and handling capabilities. Standard tires are good for daily driving but not cut out for racing. Performance tires will enhance your Supra’s cornering and braking performance.

#9. Aerodynamic Upgrades

Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in a car’s performance at high speeds. Investing in a quality front splitter, rear diffuser, and adjustable rear wing can improve your Supra’s aerodynamics. These components reduce drag and increase downforce while supporting stability and high cornering speeds.

#10. Full Roll Cage

Upgrading to a full roll cage offers essential protection in the unfortunate event of a crash, making it a critical investment for any racer. A roll cage absorbs and distributes impacts, reducing the risk of injury during a collision.

This added safety feature not only safeguards the driver but also enhances the vehicle’s structural integrity. Knowing that you have this protection allows you to drive with greater confidence, especially when navigating challenging terrains or pushing the limits at high speeds.

Bonus Safety Upgrades To Consider

While we’ve covered many upgrades so far, drivers should consider a few safety and comfort enhancements for their racing Supras.

Racing Seats and Harnesses

Racing seats and harnesses keep you secure while driving. These specialized elements provide maximum support while minimizing movement, allowing you to maintain optimal control of the vehicle. Racing seats often feature extra padding, bolstered sides, and ergonomic shapes to cradle your body and reduce fatigue during long practice sessions or races.

Harnesses come in various configurations, such as five-point or six-point designs, which restrain your body and distribute the forces experienced during sudden stops or sharp turns. By staying safe and focused on the track, you’ll enjoy your racing experiences and notice better performance.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is always a vital concern for high-performance race cars; fires can ignite from seemingly nowhere and quickly engulf the vehicle and driver. A fire suppression system is good for safety, but it’s expensive and requires extensive installation.

Keeping a fire extinguisher in the car is an excellent alternative to installing entire fire suppression systems. Ensure that it’s full, up-to-date, and easily accessible so you can quickly use it to extinguish fires in an emergency.

Upgrade With Clutch Masters Industries

Elevating your Toyota Supra for racing is an exciting challenge that involves strategic upgrades to engine power and improved handling. Prioritizing safety with roll cages and racing harnesses is also crucial for pushing the limits.

Our expert team at Clutch Masters Industries can help you get the ideal clutch for your racing Supra. Browse our inventory of performance clutches, or contact our staff to speak with a clutch expert about what’s right for your racing Supra today!