Known as the 2JZ-GTE, this formidable contender has been swapped into almost every make and model. This Toyota Supra engine is rated at 321 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, but we sill dissect that a little later. This allowed the MK4 Supra top speed to be 177 mph, but it was limited to 155 mph outside of Japan. The efficiency of sequential turbochargers allows the Mark 4 Supra to run 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. At the drag strip, a Toyota Supra 1/4 mile of 13 seconds at 109 mph made it quicker than many V8 competitors.
Many view the old Supra engine as the best inline-6 ever made. It starts with a cast-iron block with 7 main bearings. Easily capable of 1,500 horsepower, its design will last long after you read this. An aluminum head has dual cams and four valves per cylinder. One disadvantage is the Mark 4 Supra is the use of an external timing belt instead of a chain, but replacement is not much of a headache. Variable timing for the intake cam arrived in 1997, increasing the efficiency at all RPM.
Two decades ago, transmissions came in two flavors. Almost every performance car mirrored the Toyota Supra transmission. The base model was a no-frills 4-speed automatic. It was not as popular as the manual, so finding repair parts is a problem. On the other hand, Toyota partnered with Getrag to allow the Toyota Supra price to include a new six-speed manual. While it is a robust gearbox, 5th gear is 1:1 and 6th gear is a 0.8 overdrive. Those who make big power normally swap in an American gearbox to have two overdrives and more parts available.
The cockpit of a Toyota Supra is the epitome of 90’s design. You are the focus of attention, as the controls and entertainment are aimed at the driver’s seat. Gauges are big and easy to read, and the shifter is in an optimal spot. The Mark 4 Supra radio consists of a double-DIN head unit with plenty of room for upgrades. Both seats have plenty of support along with bolsters for hard cornering.
Behind the front seats are two very small seats. They were needed to make the Toyota Supra price to match a 2+2 layout for insurance reasons. Although they would work for small humans, many enthusiasts remove them to save weight. That leads to another point. Finding a Toyota Supra interior in original condition is becoming more difficult. Until such time as the manufacturer offers reproduction parts, it will be up to the internet and social media to keep the passion alive.