1JZ Engine for Sale: The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Legendary JDM Powerplant

If you’re looking for a 1JZ engine for sale, you’re probably a car enthusiast with a love for legendary Japanese engineering. The Toyota 1JZ engine has earned its status in the automotive world as a bulletproof, high-performance engine, ideal for tuning, swaps, or drifting. This in-depth guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from engine variants to performance potential, swap options, pricing, and where to find 1JZ engines for sale today.

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What Is the 1JZ Engine?

The 1JZ engine is a series of inline-six engines produced by Toyota between 1990 and 2007. It belongs to the JZ family, which also includes the famed 2JZ engine — known for its role in the Toyota Supra MK4.

Here are the main specifications of the Toyota 1JZ-GTE — the turbocharged version:

• Configuration: Inline-6

• Displacement: 2.5 liters (2,491 cc)

• Valvetrain: DOHC 24-valve

• Turbo: Single or twin-turbo depending on the generation

• Power Output: 280 PS (276 hp) @ 6,200 rpm

• Torque: 362 Nm (267 lb-ft) @ 4,800 rpm

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Variants of the 1JZ Engine

Understanding which version of the 1JZ engine you’re buying is crucial. There are three primary variants:

1. 1JZ-GE (Naturally Aspirated)

• No turbocharger

• Good for daily driving, not ideal for heavy tuning

• Found in cars like the Toyota Crown, Mark II, and Chaser

2. 1JZ-GTE (Twin or Single Turbo)

• High-performance turbocharged version

• Early versions had twin turbos (CT12A), later models had a single turbo

• Most popular for swaps, drift builds, and race applications

3. 1JZ-FSE (Direct Injection)

• Uses Toyota’s D-4 direct injection

• Designed for fuel economy, not performance

• Less common and not sought after for racing or tuning

Pro Tip: The 1JZ-GTE is what most buyers mean when they search for a “1JZ engine for sale.” It’s the one with the highest tuning potential.

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Why Is the 1JZ So Popular?

There are many reasons the 1JZ engine is popular among car builders, tuners, and JDM enthusiasts:

Reliability

Toyota designed the JZ series with strong internals. The cast-iron block and forged internals make the 1JZ-GTE capable of handling 500-600 hp with basic upgrades.

Tuning Potential

Even with the stock twin-turbo setup, tuners can safely push the engine to 400+ hp with supporting mods and a standalone ECU.

Swap Compatibility

Thanks to its compact inline-6 layout, the 1JZ fits in a wide variety of cars, from older BMWs to Nissan 240SXs and Mazda RX-7s.

Drift Culture

It’s a go-to engine for drift cars due to its power delivery, balance, and high-revving nature.

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What Cars Came with the 1JZ Engine?

Here are some iconic cars that originally came with the 1JZ engine:

• Toyota Chaser (JZX90, JZX100)

• Toyota Mark II

• Toyota Soarer (JZZ30)

• Toyota Supra MK3 (JZA70)

• Toyota Crown and Cresta

• Toyota Verossa

These vehicles were mostly sold in Japan, which is why 1JZ engines are considered JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) imports.

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Where to Buy a 1JZ Engine for Sale

When searching for a 1JZ engine for sale, your options include both local and international sellers. Here’s where you should look:

1. JDM Importers

These companies import used engines directly from Japan:

• JDM Engine Depot (USA)

• JDM California Motors

• Tiger Japanese Auto Parts

• JDM Racing Motors (Canada)

They often list engines with:

• Compression test results

• Mileage (typically 40,000–70,000 miles)

• Warranty (usually 30–90 days)

2. eBay Motors

Search for “1JZ-GTE engine for sale” and filter by location, shipping, or seller ratings. Prices may vary but you can find decent deals.

3. Enthusiast Forums & Facebook Groups

Examples:

• ClubLexus

• SupraForums

• JZX World

• Facebook Marketplace

Buy with caution — always request photos, videos, and test results.

4. Performance Shops & Swap Shops

Some custom shops specialize in engine swaps and offer complete 1JZ swap kits — sometimes including transmission, ECU, wiring harness, and accessories.

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How Much Does a 1JZ Engine Cost?

Pricing can vary depending on the engine version, condition, and included components.

Factors influencing price:

• VVTi vs. Non-VVTi

• ECU and harness included?

• Manual or automatic transmission?

• Mileage and compression test results

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1JZ vs. 2JZ: Which Should You Buy?

While the 2JZ-GTE is more famous (thanks to the MK4 Supra), the 1JZ has several advantages:

If you’re budget-conscious and want a reliable turbo inline-6, the 1JZ-GTE is the smart buy.

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Common 1JZ Engine Swap Vehicles

Swapping a 1JZ engine is a common performance upgrade. Here are some vehicles often paired with this motor:

• Nissan 240SX (S13, S14)

• Mazda RX-7 (FC, FD)

• BMW E30 / E36 / E46

• Lexus IS300 (replacing the 2JZ-GE with a 1JZ-GTE)

• Toyota MR2 (with custom rear-engine setup)

• Toyota Cressida

Tips:

• Ensure you get the right mounts and oil pan orientation

• Consider buying a full swap kit to save time and labor

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What to Check Before Buying a 1JZ Engine

Always perform due diligence when shopping for a used or imported engine.

🔍 Checklist:

• Is it VVTi or non-VVTi? (VVTi = better midrange torque, newer tech)

• Request a compression test (190–210 psi per cylinder is ideal)

• Ask for photos/videos of the engine running (if available)

• Check for oil leaks, damage, or corrosion

• Ensure it includes the wiring harness, ECU, MAF sensor, and igniters

If possible, buy from a seller that offers warranty or return policy.

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Top Upgrades After Buying a 1JZ Engine

Once you’ve secured your 1JZ engine for sale, here are the most popular mods:

1. Standalone ECU (e.g., Haltech, AEM, LinkECU)

2. Single Turbo Conversion (if you want more power and simpler setup)

3. Front-Mount Intercooler (FMIC)

4. 3” Downpipe and Exhaust

5. Upgraded Injectors and Fuel Pump

6. Clutch Kit (for manual swaps)

7. Upgraded Radiator and Cooling System

8. Boost Controller & Turbo Timer

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Pros and Cons of Buying a 1JZ Engine

✅ Pros

• Proven reliability

• High tuning potential

• Legendary JDM status

• Relatively affordable

• Compact design for easy swaps

❌ Cons

• Most are 20+ years old

• Parts can be rare (but available online)

• Requires knowledge to swap and tune

• Not emissions-legal in all regions (check your state laws)

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FAQs: 1JZ Engine for Sale

❓ Can I daily drive a 1JZ-swapped car?

Yes, with proper maintenance and tuning, a 1JZ-powered vehicle can be very reliable for daily use.

❓ Is the 1JZ better than SR20 or RB25?

In many cases, yes. The 1JZ has better internals and is more reliable than an SR20 and generally easier to find/maintain than the RB25.

❓ What transmission should I pair with the 1JZ?

The R154 5-speed and V160 6-speed are ideal. Some use W58, but it’s weaker.

❓ Where can I find replacement parts?

JDM importers, Toyota parts dealers, or sites like Fensport, Driftmotion, and Nengun stock OEM and aftermarket parts.