Scion FR-S Speedster Disfigures a Fine-Looking Car

The Scion FR-S, or Toyota GT-86 in the rest of the world, was never going to win any automotive beauty contests, but it is hardly an ugly car. Until now that is. 

Toyota is sponsoring the Grand Prix of Long Beach in Los Angeles that comprises both an Indycar race and an American Le Mans Race. To celebrate two of America's biggest racing series coming together for a weekend, Toyota as commissioned a roadster version of the FR-S as a pacecar. Something must have gotten lost in translation because what started as a decent-looking car has been transformed into this hideous monstrosity. It is the equivalent of people who get too much plastic surgery and no longer appear human. 

The FR-S Speedster was built by Iacono Design and Cartel Customs and will also be featured on the event poster. ALMS driver Scott Pruett will drive the car at the Grand Marshall vehicle for the Indycar race.

“The Scion FR-S Speedster is a true sports car that embodies the spirit of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach and our commitment to motorsports. We think enthusiasts are really going to enjoy seeing this vehicle during the race weekend festivities,” said Toyota National Motorsports Manager Les Unger.

The car carries the 86 number due to the AE86 chassis Corolla that inspired the FR-S' design. Inside, the instrument panel has been moved to the center for no discernible reason. The windshield glass wraps around to the side, and there are nacelles behind the front seats where the rear seats would usually be. Other than the new glass and nacelles, it looks like the two customizers took a saw to the roof, painted the car and called it a day. Weirdly, that is enough to ruin the looks of the car. 

The engine is the same 2.0l unit from the production car. A KW coilover kit, Wilwood brake calipers and pads were added to drilled and slotted SRP rotors. That is the extent of the performance modifications. 

The car will be on display during the race, and no word what Toyota will do with the car after the event. Although, finding the nearest cliff into the Pacific would be advisable.