Function and Form: Neo-Functional Finesse

Toyota decided to keep 91% of the GT86's components unique to the model allowing the platform to have a kerb weight of only 1240 kg, an ideal 53:47 front/rear weight distribution and a centre of gravity of just 459mm. These figures are just numbers, so to put it in context; the 86 has a lower centre of gravity than a Ferrari 458 Italia and lower inertia than a Porsche Cayman S. In fact the 86's centre of gravity was engineered to be so low the Subaru BRZ variant sees the lowest centre of gravity of any 2 + 2 production sports coupe car ever made - thanks to its slightly differing suspension set-up than its 86 brother.

Further things that aided the 86 in reaching these stats is its 65mm thick aluminium pagoda style roof - providing function and form, allowing the driver and passenger to wear helmets while saving weight.

By opting for a double wishbone suspension setup in the rear of the car, handling characteristics are vastly improved allowing for far more camber and toe control. More grip is experienced through an increased contact patch between the tyre and road; this is because when under heavy compression the negative camber at the top of suspension travel experienced is eliminated. The tuning potential is also increased for various different ride qualities and handling characteristics desired upon the specific objective with the platform. 

The car was designed with 'Neo-functionalism' in mind; as seen with its shapes and curves resembling that of the 2000GT:

GT86 and 2000GT Side View Comparison

The specific shapes and forms all still serve aerodynamic function. Toyota was able to implement a pretty basic yet effective development named 'aero sandwiching'; ensuring the car is pushed from top to bottom as well as its sides to stabilise it vertically and horizontally. This design cue is most clearly seen with its pagoda style roof, channeling air centrally - aiding in stabilising the car at high speeds.