
The Toyota Supra (A80 generation, 1993-2002) is the car most famous for the 2JZ engine. However, it was also available in the Toyota Aristo (sold as the Lexus GS300 in the U.S.), the Toyota Soarer (Lexus SC300), and the Crown Majesta. The Supra's 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo variant is legendary for its immense strength and tuning potential, easily handling significant power increases on its stock internal components.
The 2JZ is a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The key difference lies in the suffix. The naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE was common in luxury sedans and coupes, prioritizing smoothness and reliability. The turbocharged 2JZ-GTE, with its sequential twin-turbo setup, is the performance icon. Its robust design, including a closed-deck iron block and forged internals, made it a tuner's dream.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two main variants found in these cars:
| Vehicle Model | Engine Code | Aspiration | Horsepower (Stock) | Torque (lb-ft, Stock) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Supra Turbo | 2JZ-GTE | Twin-Turbo | 320 hp (J-spec) | 315 lb-ft | Sequential turbo system |
| Lexus GS300 | 2JZ-GE | Naturally Aspirated | 220 hp | 220 lb-ft | Smoother, more affordable |
| Toyota Aristo | 2JZ-GTE | Twin-Turbo | 280 hp (J-spec) | 309 lb-ft | Luxury sedan with Supra engine |
| Lexus SC300 | 2JZ-GE | Naturally Aspirated | 225 hp | 220 lb-ft | Sports coupe platform |
| Toyota Soarer | 2JZ-GTE | Twin-Turbo | 280 hp (J-spec) | 309 lb-ft | JDM luxury coupe |
While the Supra gets all the attention, the Lexus GS300 and SC300 are often called "sleepers" because they share the same strong 2JZ block. Though they have the non-turbo 2JZ-GE, the engine bay can often accommodate a turbo kit from the GTE model, making them a more budget-friendly starting point for a project car. The aftermarket support for the entire 2JZ family is massive, solidifying its status as a modern classic.

Oh, that's easy. The king is the MK4 Toyota Supra, no question. That's the one from the Fast and Furious movies. But don't sleep on the Lexus SC300 or GS300 from the 90s. They have the same basic engine, just without the turbos from the factory. They’re way cheaper to buy now and can be built into monsters. It’s all about that legendary 2JZ block.

From a mechanical standpoint, the 2JZ's reputation is well-earned. Its iron block construction provides exceptional durability under high boost pressures. I've worked on many Supras and Lexus models with this engine. The non-turbo versions in the Lexus cars are incredibly reliable daily drivers. The turbo variant is more complex, but its sequential system provides excellent response. The real value is the over-engineering; it was built to handle far more than its stock output.

If you're looking for a project car, the 2JZ is the holy grail. The Supra is the dream, but prices are insane. A smarter move might be finding a clean Lexus SC300. It’s the same chassis as the Supra and has the 2JZ engine. You can then do a turbo swap or a single turbo conversion. The potential is limitless, with builds regularly exceeding 800 horsepower on stock internals. It’s an investment in a platform with proven results.

Beyond the iconic Supra, Toyota placed this engine in several luxury vehicles. The JDM-market Toyota Aristo is a twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE sedan, essentially a Supra engine in a four-door body. In the U.S., the Lexus GS300 and SC300 are your best bets, featuring the sturdy 2JZ-GE. This widespread use across sports and luxury lines is a testament to the engine's versatility and fundamental strength, creating a vast ecosystem of parts and knowledge for enthusiasts today.


