Underrated JDM Engine Swaps That Actually Rip (And Sketchy Ones That Worked)

Hobbies Cars
1

Been digging into some wild JDM builds lately, and I’m curious what’s the most underrated engine swap you’ve come across that absolutely shreds? We all know the usual suspects (LS, 2JZ, K20), but there’s gotta be some hidden gems out there. I’ve heard rumors about the Toyota 3S-GTE in lighter chassis being a monster, or even the humble SR20VE with a bit of love.

And while we’re at it, what’s the sketchiest swap you’ve seen that somehow held together? I remember a dude cramming a 13B into an old Corolla with zip ties and prayers, and it actually ran (for a while). Let’s hear your favorites bonus points for weird or barely legal setups.

2

The Mazda KL-DE V6 is criminally overlooked compact, high-revving, and responds beautifully to boost in lightweight chassis. As for sketchy, a friend wedged a Ford Barra into an MX-5 using angle iron and sheer will; it lasted three glorious pulls before the diff exploded.