What is 1JZ-GTE?
Toyota's 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-six, the smaller sibling of the 2JZ, popular in drifting for its strength and quick spool.
The 1JZ-GTE is a 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-six from Toyota's JZ engine family, produced from 1990. It powered cars such as the Soarer, Chaser, Mark II and early Supra, and shares much of its architecture with the more famous 2JZ-GTE.
Early versions used twin sequential turbochargers, while later VVT-i models switched to a single turbo. Like its bigger brother, the 1JZ has a famously strong cast-iron block that tolerates high boost, making it a favourite for tuning and engine swaps despite its smaller displacement.
In drifting and street-tuning circles the 1JZ is prized for spooling more quickly than the 2JZ while still handling serious power. It offers much of the JZ family's legendary durability at a typically lower cost, cementing its cult status among enthusiasts.
