2013 Scion FR-S: Horsepower, Specs, And Performance

by Alex Braham 52 views

Alright, gearheads! Let's dive deep into the world of the 2013 Scion FR-S, a car that holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. One of the burning questions that always pops up is: What's the stock horsepower of the 2013 FR-S? Well, you're in luck because we're about to break it all down for you, along with a bunch of other juicy details.

The Heart of the Beast: 2013 Scion FR-S Horsepower Revealed

So, let's get right to it, shall we? The 2013 Scion FR-S boasts a stock horsepower rating of 200 hp. Yep, that's the number you're looking for! This power is generated by a spirited 2.0-liter naturally aspirated (meaning, no turbo or supercharger from the factory) four-cylinder engine. This engine, co-developed with Subaru, is a key reason why this car is so well-loved. It's not just about raw power; it's about the way the power is delivered. The FR-S is designed to be a fun, engaging car to drive, and that 200 hp is a crucial part of the equation.

Now, before we go any further, let's talk about what that horsepower number actually means. Horsepower is a measure of how quickly an engine can do work. Think of it like this: the more horsepower an engine has, the faster it can accelerate, and the easier it can climb hills. However, horsepower isn't the only thing that matters. Torque, which is a measure of rotational force, also plays a big role in how a car feels on the road. The 2013 FR-S has a torque rating of 151 lb-ft, which is pretty respectable for a car of its size and weight.

But let's not forget, the beauty of the 2013 Scion FR-S isn't just about the numbers. It's about the overall driving experience. The car is lightweight, has a low center of gravity, and is blessed with a responsive chassis. This makes it an absolute blast to throw around corners. It's a car that encourages you to drive it hard, and it rewards you with a grin-inducing experience every time. The 200 horsepower figure is perfectly matched to the car's other characteristics, making for a balanced and fun-to-drive package. Many folks also upgrade their exhaust system to boost the performance, making the car a beast.

Diving Deeper: Engine Specs and Performance Numbers

Okay, so we know about the 2013 Scion FR-S stock horsepower, but what other specs are worth knowing? Let's take a closer look at the engine and some performance numbers, shall we? As mentioned earlier, the engine is a 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed four-cylinder (also known as a boxer engine) developed in partnership with Subaru. This engine design helps keep the car's center of gravity low, which contributes to its excellent handling.

The engine produces its 200 hp at 7,000 rpm, meaning you'll need to rev it up to get the most out of it. The 151 lb-ft of torque peaks at 6,400 rpm. The FR-S came with a choice of either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is the purist's choice, as it gives you complete control over the gears and allows you to wring every bit of performance out of the engine. The automatic transmission is a decent option, too, offering smooth shifts and paddle shifters for manual control. The car, in stock form, can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 to 7 seconds, depending on the transmission and the driver.

Fuel economy is also pretty decent for a sports car. The manual-equipped FR-S is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the automatic gets slightly better highway mileage. These numbers make the FR-S a practical choice for daily driving, in addition to being a fun weekend car. Keep in mind that these numbers are for a stock FR-S. Modifications such as aftermarket headers, intake, or a tune can affect both the horsepower and fuel economy. However, with all that in mind, the 200 hp is a really good figure, as many of these cars are still being raced and enjoyed today.

Tracing the FR-S's Legacy: A Brief History

The Scion FR-S, also known as the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ (it's the same car under different badges), was introduced for the 2013 model year. It was a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru, with Subaru providing the engine and the overall engineering expertise. The FR-S was designed to be a back-to-basics sports car, focusing on driving enjoyment rather than outright power. The car quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its affordable price, great handling, and engaging driving dynamics.

Scion, as a brand, was aimed at younger buyers, and the FR-S fit perfectly into that mold. It offered a sporty, stylish car at an accessible price point, attracting a new generation of enthusiasts. The FR-S stood out from other affordable sports cars with its rear-wheel-drive layout, which is typically found in more expensive vehicles. This setup gives the car a balanced feel and contributes to its playful handling characteristics. The car's success led to Toyota and Subaru continuing to refine the FR-S/86/BRZ platform over the years, with updates to the engine, suspension, and styling. The car's popularity has continued and the community has grown. The 2013 Scion FR-S is where it all started, so, its legacy is important.

Modifications and Upgrades: Unleashing More Power

While the stock 2013 Scion FR-S horsepower of 200 is plenty of fun, many owners look for ways to extract even more performance from their cars. The aftermarket community for the FR-S/86/BRZ is vast, offering a wide array of modifications to suit all tastes and budgets. Let's look at some popular upgrades, shall we?

  • Intake and Exhaust: Upgrading the intake and exhaust systems is a common first step. Aftermarket intakes can improve airflow to the engine, while exhaust systems can reduce backpressure and free up some extra horsepower. These mods also add a more aggressive sound to the car. However, you need to be careful not to create a setup that does not work. This will lower your horsepower instead.
  • ECU Tune: An ECU (Engine Control Unit) tune is a software modification that can optimize the engine's performance. Tuning can adjust various parameters, such as fuel delivery, ignition timing, and boost levels (if a turbo or supercharger is installed), to increase power and torque. A well-executed tune can unlock significant performance gains. Be careful, a poorly executed tune can also damage your engine. You need to know what you are doing before you decide to do this.
  • Suspension Upgrades: The FR-S already has good handling, but suspension upgrades can take it to the next level. Coilovers, lowering springs, sway bars, and other suspension components can improve handling, reduce body roll, and make the car more responsive. You can really tune the car to work to your advantage.
  • Forced Induction: For those who want serious power, forced induction (turbochargers or superchargers) is the way to go. These systems force more air into the engine, resulting in a significant increase in horsepower and torque. However, forced induction is a more complex and expensive modification, requiring other supporting mods to handle the added power. You will need to take extra care of your engine when doing this, as it increases the overall stress.

Remember, when modifying your car, it's essential to do your research, choose quality components, and have the work done by a qualified mechanic. Also, be aware that modifications can affect your car's warranty and may not be street-legal in all areas.

The FR-S Today: A Timeless Classic?

So, is the 2013 Scion FR-S a timeless classic? Well, that's a subjective question, but it's safe to say that the car has earned a special place in automotive history. Its combination of affordability, engaging driving dynamics, and a strong enthusiast community has made it a favorite among car lovers. Today, the FR-S continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a fun and affordable sports car. You can still find them for sale at reasonable prices, and the aftermarket support is excellent.

If you're considering buying a 2013 Scion FR-S, you won't be disappointed. It's a car that puts a smile on your face every time you drive it. Remember the stock horsepower is 200, but there's plenty of potential for upgrades. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of cars, the FR-S is a great car to drive. It's a car that celebrates the joy of driving, and that's something that will always be in style. So, get out there and enjoy the ride!

Conclusion: Wrapping it Up

Alright, folks, we've covered a lot of ground today! We know the 2013 Scion FR-S has 200 hp in stock form. We also took a look at the car's engine specs, performance numbers, history, and the many ways you can modify it to suit your needs. Remember, the FR-S is more than just numbers; it's about the feeling you get when you're behind the wheel, the connection you feel with the road. It is a car that truly delivers.

Whether you are looking for a first sports car, or you are looking for a fun car, the 2013 Scion FR-S is perfect for you. The community support is excellent, and there are plenty of parts available. You can make it any way you want, or you can enjoy it stock. The choice is yours!