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Toyota 1JZ / 2JZ engine swap with ZF 8HP automatic transmission
Engine swaps are projects that always stir excitement in the tuning world. Automotive enthusiasts continually seek new, creative technological combinations that deliver exceptional performance, reliability, and everyday comfort. One of the most interesting and modern solutions of recent years is the combination of Toyota’s legendary 1JZ and 2JZ engines with the advanced German 8-speed automatic transmission ZF 8HP.
Toyota's legendary engines – 1JZ and 2JZ
The JZ-series engines have achieved near-legendary status among tuners and motorsport enthusiasts for good reason. Both engines are renowned for exceptional durability, immense tuning potential, and outstanding performance, even in their stock configurations.
1JZ Engine Variants:
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1JZ-GE – Naturally aspirated, 2.5-liter inline-six, producing approximately 180–200 hp. Mainly used in the Toyota Mark II, Chaser, Cresta, and Crown models. Known for its smooth operation and a solid foundation for turbocharging upgrades.
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1JZ-GTE – Turbocharged 2.5-liter variant of the 1JZ engine, originally equipped with twin-turbos (first generation) or a single CT15B turbo (second generation with VVT-i). Factory output around 280 hp, with tuning potential reaching approximately 700 hp.
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1JZ-FSE – Rare naturally aspirated variant with direct injection (Toyota D-4), 2.5-liter displacement producing roughly 200 hp. Primarily designed for fuel efficiency rather than high-performance applications.
2JZ Engine Variants:
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2JZ-GE – Naturally aspirated 3-liter inline-six engine producing approximately 220–230 hp. Commonly used as a base for further modifications (e.g., turbo conversion). Found in vehicles such as Toyota Supra Mk4, Lexus GS300, IS300, and Toyota Aristo.
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2JZ-GTE – The most powerful factory variant of the 2JZ, equipped with twin turbos and a 3-liter displacement. Factory output is around 280–320 hp, but the tuning potential is immense, often exceeding 1000 hp with suitable upgrades.
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2JZ-FSE – Naturally aspirated variant featuring direct fuel injection (Toyota D-4 system). Producing around 217 hp, this engine was primarily used in luxury sedans like the Toyota Crown and Brevis, focusing on comfort and fuel efficiency.
Thanks to their durability and tuning potential, both engines are ideal for intensive tuning projects, including those involving modern automatic transmissions.
ZF 8HP Automatic Transmission – Detailed Information
The ZF 8HP (8-Gang-Automatikgetriebe) is one of the most highly regarded modern automatic transmissions, produced by the German manufacturer ZF Friedrichshafen AG. Since its debut in 2008, it has gained immense popularity and has been adopted by numerous premium automotive brands including BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Maserati, and even Rolls-Royce.
Main Features and Advantages of the ZF 8HP:
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8-Speed Design:
Eight gears allow optimal engine power utilization, improving performance while reducing fuel consumption. The wide gear ratio range ensures excellent acceleration and fuel economy. -
Fast and Smooth Gear Changes:
The 8HP transmission is known for extremely rapid shift times, under 200 milliseconds, comparable to many dual-clutch sports transmissions. This results in dynamic driving and noticeable performance improvements. -
High Efficiency and Fuel Economy:
Thanks to its modern design, the ZF 8HP transmission reduces power losses and can lower fuel consumption by 10–15% compared to older automatic transmissions. This is particularly important for high-powered vehicles, where fuel efficiency is critical. -
Durability and High Torque Capacity:
The ZF 8HP is available in various versions adapted to different torque capacities:-
ZF 8HP45: up to 450 Nm of torque.
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ZF 8HP50/51: mid-range, up to about 500–550 Nm.
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ZF 8HP70: handles up to about 700 Nm, ideal for high-powered engines.
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ZF 8HP75/76: reinforced versions for about 750–800 Nm.
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ZF 8HP90: the strongest version, capable of handling up to 900–1000 Nm, used in sports and luxury vehicles with high-performance engines.
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Advanced Electronic Control:
The ZF 8HP offers multiple driving modes (comfort, sport, economy), adaptively adjusting shift patterns to the driver's style. It is also compatible with Start-Stop systems and hybrid powertrains. -
Adaptation for Motorsport and Tuning:
The ZF 8HP transmission has also gained recognition in the tuning community. Combined with high-tuning-potential engines like the Toyota 1JZ or 2JZ, it provides excellent driving dynamics, comfort, and impressive durability even at extreme power levels. -
Driving Comfort:
Besides performance, the ZF 8HP offers exceptional comfort – gear shifts are nearly imperceptible, ensuring smooth operation even during dynamic driving.
Why combine Toyota JZ engines with the ZF 8HP transmission?
Combining Toyota JZ engines with the ZF 8HP automatic transmission creates a unique blend of performance, durability, and driving comfort. With this modern transmission, driving a car equipped with a classic Japanese engine reaches an entirely new level.
Advantages of this solution include:
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Significantly improved performance – quick gear shifts ensure excellent acceleration and dynamic driving both on track and on public roads.
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Reliability and durability – both JZ engines and the ZF 8HP transmission are renowned for their robustness, even under heavy loads.
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Daily driving comfort – the convenience of the automatic transmission makes such a tuned car ideal even for relaxed city driving.
Stages of swapping 1JZ or 2JZ engine with ZF 8HP transmission
Engine and transmission selection
Defining performance goals and budget helps to choose between 1JZ and 2JZ and to select the appropriate ZF 8HP variant (e.g., 8HP45, 8HP70, or the stronger 8HP90).
Transmission adapter
A professional adapter ensures precise connection between the JZ engine and ZF 8HP transmission. Adapters provided by companies like PMC Motorsport offer easy installation, perfect fit, and structural durability.
Electronic control
Integrating the ZF 8HP transmission with a 1JZ/2JZ engine requires advanced transmission control units (TCU, such as TurboLamik). Ready-made control kits available on the market provide complete integration and customizable transmission operation.
Transmission oil cooling
A highly efficient oil cooler for the transmission is essential, especially for track use or high-power projects.
Driveline and half-shafts
Consider reinforcing or upgrading the driveshaft and half-shafts to cope with the high torque generated by the 1JZ/2JZ engines.
Summary – Innovation meets classic performance
Swapping a 1JZ or 2JZ engine with the ZF 8HP automatic transmission combines classic Japanese engine power with advanced, modern German technology. Thanks to available adapters and electronic kits, this project is becoming increasingly popular among tuning enthusiasts. It's an ideal solution for those looking to enjoy thrilling performance both on track and in everyday driving, blending exciting power with the comfort of modern automotive technology.
