However, many people are unaware that the Lexus SC300 is practically the mechanical cousin of the Toyota Supra. This is due to the 2JZ engine being shared between the SC300 and Supra. Yes, the Lexus SC300 has a similar engine to the Toyota Supra.
Additionally, the SC300 and the Supra also use the same suspension parts. Despite this, the SC300’s suspension setup and ride quality are far less harsh than those of the Supra because the SC300 wasn’t designed with a racing-level ride in mind to begin with. The suspension is more in line with what you would expect from a Lexus than a Suprait is softer, considerably more forgiving, and more comfortable.
If you’ve ever heard the smooth-but-aggressive, traditional exhaust note of a 2JZ, you’ll be able to appreciate why the Lexus SC300 is an underestimated vehicle. For reference, a 2JZ engine was one of the ones used in the sound mix of Brian’s Nissan Skyline GT-R in the motion picture 2 Fast 2 Furious, starring Paul Walker (Along with an RB26DET and RB30DET, both single-turbo).
In This Article...
What Lexus had a 2JZ engine?
A 3.0 liter, six-cylinder engine known as the 2JZ-GE powers the Lexus IS300. Fans of the MkIV Supra ought to be acquainted with its engine code. Although it had a few internal tweaks and no turbos, the engine was fundamentally the same as the one in the Toyota Supra. An engine that, incidentally, the JDM Altezza never provided.
The Lexus IS300 produces 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft less power than the Supra without turbos (alone). That is, at least, the stock production. Owners frequently install Supra turbos on their Lexus IS300s. According to Jalopnik, the 2JZ’s iconic status is directly related to how overbuilt it was. The Bubble Era, which gave the world the Skyline GT-R and Autozam AZ-1, came to a close at this time. According to Jalopnik, owners could theoretically triple the IS300’s output without any problems with the right tune.
Additionally, according to MT, there were the TRD-tuned Lexus IS300 L-Tuned versions. Stage I automobiles have a body kit, fog lamps, and an 8 horsepower stainless steel exhaust. New springs, bigger anti-roll bars, cast-aluminum wheels, and Michelin Pilot Sport tires are added to Stage II versions. They ride one lower as well. Additionally, a limited-slip rear differential was a choice.
What vehicles were the 2JZ-GTE available in?
- Toyota 6-speed manual V160 and V161 (jointly developed with Getrag as the Type 233)
In 1991, the 2JZ-GTE initially propelled the Toyota Aristo V (JZS147), then in the Toyota Supra RZ it became Toyota’s king of performance (JZA80). The previous 2JZ-GE served as its mechanical foundation, but it varied in that engine used sequential twin turbochargers and an air-to-air side-mounted intercooler. The 2JZ-GTE of the Supra features recessed piston tops, which results in a lower compression ratio, oil spray nozzles to help cool the pistons, and a new head (redesigned inlet/exhaust ports, cams, and valves). The 2JZ-GE of the Supra has the same engine block, crankshaft, and connecting rods. The original engine was phased out as a result of Toyota’s addition of VVT-i variable valve timing technology to the engine commencing in September 1997. As a result, the maximum torque and horsepower for engines selling in all markets were increased. Aristo, Altezza, and Mark II, later 2JZ-GE VVT-i equipped cars, share a separate part number for weaker connecting rods.
Its commercially claimed output was increased from 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp) to the current industry maximum of 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) at 5600 rpm by the addition of twin turbochargers, jointly developed by Toyota and Hitachi. When the VVT-i was introduced in the production year 1997, the torque was later reported as 46 kgm (333 lbft; 451 Nm), up from the initial 44.3 kgm (320 lbft; 434 Nm) at 4000 rpm. Japan’s now-defunct Gentlemen’s Agreement solely between Japanese automakers selling to the Japanese domestic market enforced the mutually agreed, industry-wide output ceiling. According to Toyota, the engine’s output in the North American and European markets was boosted to 320 horsepower (239 kW; 324 PS) at 5600 revolutions per minute. [4]
With the help of updated stainless steel turbochargers (ceramic for Japanese models), improved camshafts, and larger injectors (550 cc/min for export, 440 cc/min for Japanese models), the export version of the 2JZ-GTE was able to produce more power. The exhaust-side propeller shaft of the CT20 turbine built to Japanese specifications and the CT12B turbine built to export specifications can be swapped out. Additionally, the more robust turbine housings, stainless steel turbine and impeller fins, and export-only CT12B turbine were added. There are various Japanese CT20 turbine variations that can be distinguished by their B, R, and A part number suffixes (e.g.: CT20A).
The best 2JZ engine is which one?
19 stars have been awarded to the 1JZ-GTE. 20 stars have been awarded to the 2JZ-GTE. The 2JZ-GTE comes out on top! Both engines are excellent; however, the 2JZ-GTE has certain advantages due to its displacement, while the 1JZ-GTE has advantages due to its somewhat lower price. Both engines are quite similar in terms of performance out of the box and tweaking possibilities. You’ll be on to a winner if you can get your hands on one of these engines.
With that said, a winner must be declared, so congratulations. 2JZ-GTE You *just* edged out your older brother for first place.
- x x 20 2JZ-GTE
- x x 19 1JZ-GTE
Can a 2JZ GE be turboed?
When it comes to turbocharging a 2JZ-GE engine, there are numerous possibilities. For a 2JZ, turbo kit options are the least expensive and most practical way to implement forced induction. If achieving large power goals is the ultimate goal, some people choose a custom arrangement. We will be mostly focused on pre-made kits to avoid misunderstanding as custom turbo setups are very specialized and specific to each individual automobile.
The 2JZ-GE is available with a large selection of turbo kits, just like the majority of highly customizable engines. Choosing the ideal turbo kit for your unique needs necessitates taking many things into account. What budget have you set out for a kit? What kind of power are you seeking? What auxiliary modifications are necessary to run each kit?
Fortunately for you, we’ll examine a couple of the most popular 2JZ-GE turbo conversion kits and go through their advantages and disadvantages.
What model of Lexus is the 1JZ?
This 2002 Lexus IS300 had mismatched bodywork, some off-road scars, and an ambitious new owner with a head full of ideas before it was powered by Toyota’s venerable workhorse 1JZ and before it appeared tidy enough to win a few awards at a local car show.
A Supra or a Lexus SC?
The Lexus SC Remains an Underrated ’90s Classic: A Supra Without the Hype. One of the most recognizable Japanese sports cars of all time is the fourth-generation Toyota Supra.
Is the 2JZ-ge an effective motor?
All 2JZ versions are regarded as legendary in the enormous realm of 2JZ engine discussions. Since the DNA of the 2JZ-GE and 2JZ-GTE is almost identical, their similarities outweigh their differences. Having stated that, the argument between 2JZ-GE and 2JZ-GTE rages on. In the end, neither option is likely to disappoint you.
Despite being siblings, the 2JZ-GE and 2JZ-GTE have some significant variances. The sequential twin-turbos on the GTE dramatically boost horsepower and torque, which is the most notable improvement.
Nearly every other distinction between the two 2JZ types may be attributed to the GTE’s forced induction. Toyota enhanced intake flow when designing the cylinder head for the GTE. The 2JZ-GTE uses recessed piston tops, which reduce compression and make boost safer for internal components. When it comes to the GTE’s incorporation of piston oil squirters, the same mindset is at work.
Both the 2JZ-GE and 2JZ-GTE are among the most powerful production engines to date, notwithstanding. As a result, both have a ton of aftermarket potential and tons of information available. Toyota’s inline-6 engine is definitely going out with the 2JZ series. Many people feel that nothing greater will ever exist.
Check out our other articles on Toyota engines if you liked this one on the 2JZ-GE vs. 2JZ-GTE engines from Toyota. Our post comparing the Toyota 1JZ and 2JZ engines could be of interest to you. Alternatively, we also offer a useful 2JZ-GTE turbo upgrading instructions. As usual, drive carefully!
About Austin Parsons
Austin earned a technical writing degree from the University of Colorado Denver in 2021 and continues to live nearby. Despite his youth, Austin has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the automobile industry. He frequently had articles published in the CU Sentry newspaper and served as The Indian Weekly Magazine’s chief automobile content writer. Austin also spent more than 5 years working as a technical product specialist at BMW.
He currently drives a 325i E30 that has been significantly modified. Austin built a stroker kit himself, which is one of the largest modifications. He is unmatched in his expertise and enthusiasm for automobiles. Austin’s background in technical writing enables him to provide our automotive readers with knowledgeable, thoroughly researched, and incredibly detailed technical articles.
What does a 2JZ cost?
A race-ready 2JZ-GE engine typically costs $50,000 to construct. This special engine is utilized just in racing and is capable of producing 500 horsepower.
All of this is to suggest that these are pricey engines designed for race vehicles rather than the recreational driver.
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A 300 is it a 2JZ?
Given the possibilities of the inline-six, it is not surprise that Alberth seemed to adore the 2JZ engine. The Lexus IS300 has a 2JZ engine as standard equipment, but it’s the naturally aspirated model, which has unique pistons and a unique head. Even more astonishing is Alberth’s continued usage of the stock 2JZ GE head, despite Porting Solutions’ porting work on it.
As far as other high-horsepower 2JZ builds go, the majority of the other parts are very common. Similar to Alberth’s 204SX, which in his opinion, has a redesigned intake, a 105 mm throttle body, 12 injectors (two per cylinder), and an 86-85 Precision turbo, the IS300 had these features as well “appears to be the preferred turbo for this engine. In contrast to the Nissan, the IS300’s engine has been expanded to 3.2 liters. All of it is controlled by a Haltec Elite 2500 ECU. The crucial information is shown on a Haltec IC7 instrument cluster.
Alberth notes that it’s interesting that the Manley pistons and connecting rods are Honda-spec, not Toyota-spec. The entire configuration is beneficial to “A 4L80 automatic transmission with the option for manual changing at the steering wheel transmits more than 1,200 horsepower to all four wheels. Eventually, Alberth divulges certain performance data, such as the 2.89-second sprint from 60 to 130 mph (97 to 210 km/h).
Are SC300s capable drifters?
There is no denying that certain drifting vehicles, like as the Nissan Silvia family, have attained cult status, earning them an eye-wateringly high’scene tax’.
Let’s say you are unfamiliar with the phrase. The Nissan Silvia line, including the S13, S14, and JDM S15, as well as the Toyota Supra are examples of cars that fall under this category.
Due to the high demand for the identical automobiles from tuning enthusiasts, the price frequently increases beyond comprehension.
The most sought-after Nissan Skylines have reached well over $100,000 at auction thanks to these rises, and if you’re trying to get a deal, prices in Japan aren’t exactly slowing down either.
As you might have thought, having a $100K ride isn’t going to be the best option when it comes to drifting or simply taking advantage of a car to its greatest capacity.
It’s surprising that tuning aficionados haven’t been lining up to purchase the coup because of its classic appearance and sleek yet understated sports car style.
In addition to having attractive appearance, it also has nearly identical subframes and the same engine, brake system, electronics, and transmission as the famed MK4 Supra.
Shared aftermarket parts between the two cars make them even more desirable because the Supra is one of the most well-known tuned automobiles.
Even while the price of the SC300 is going to rise over time, there are still some deals to be found if you’re prepared to look for them.
The SC300 will be an excellent choice whether you want to pursue drifting with its excellent handling or simply take advantage of its beautiful looks with a stance build.
Even while it’s getting harder and harder to locate an in its original OEM form, you may still take advantage of this to your advantage when it comes to gaining an edge on prospective modifications and upgrades, which we’ll examine in greater detail later in our guide.
Let’s look at the background and specifications of the magnificent Lexus SC300, which many enthusiasts consider to be the luxury sibling of the Toyota Supra.