Does the 1998 Lexus GS300 have a 2JZ?
Yes. The 1998 Lexus GS300 uses Toyota's 2JZ-GE inline-6 engine, a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter unit. It is not the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE found in the Supra.
In this piece, we explain what the 2JZ-GE is, how it differs from the 2JZ-GTE, and what this means for owners and buyers of a 1998 GS300.
Engine details: 2JZ-GE in the GS300
The 1998 GS300 is powered by a 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-6, a member of Toyota's venerable JZ engine family. It features 24 valves and dual overhead camshafts, delivering smooth, broad torque without forced induction. In US-spec GS300s of that era, the engine typically produced around 225 horsepower and about 210 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain is designed for reliability and refined, quiet operation in a luxury sedan context.
What follows breaks down the essential facts in a simple list for quick reference.
- 2JZ-GE is a naturally aspirated member of Toyota's JZ inline-6 family, used in several mid-to-luxury models, including the GS300 and IS300 in various markets.
- The 2JZ-GTE is the turbocharged variant found in the performance-focused Supra and related models, delivering substantially higher power with forced induction.
- The basic 2JZ architecture uses a 3.0-liter displacement, DOHC with 24 valves, and typically a robust bottom end designed for durability and torque.
- In the 1998 GS300, this translates to a strong, reliable daily-driver engine with sufficient power for comfortable cruising and confident passing, but not turbocharged performance.
In summary, the GS300 uses the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE, delivering smooth power suitable for a luxury sedan rather than the turbocharged speed of the 2JZ-GTE.
2JZ-GE vs 2JZ-GTE: What’s the difference?
Both engines share the same 2JZ family designation, but their configurations and intended applications differ. The 2JZ-GTE features sequential turbocharging and higher boost, aimed at performance benchmarks, while the 2JZ-GE remains naturally aspirated and tuned for everyday driving comfort and reliability.
For readers evaluating a 1998 GS300, the key distinction is that you’re looking at a 2JZ-GE rather than a turbocharged GTE. If you want Supra-like power, you’d be exploring aftermarket modifications or swapping platforms, which carry significant engineering and legal considerations.
Additional context for buyers and enthusiasts
Understanding the engine details helps with maintenance planning and resale expectations. The 2JZ-GE family has a reputation for longevity when properly cared for, with routine maintenance focusing on lubrication, cooling, timing components, and overall drivetrain health. Always review maintenance records for a 1998 GS300 to ensure the engine has been cared for, as with any aging vehicle.
Key maintenance tips include ensuring regular oil changes with the manufacturer-recommended viscosity, inspecting the cooling system, keeping timing components in good condition, and confirming a history of leak-free gaskets and seals. A well-maintained 2JZ-GE-equipped GS300 can provide reliable service for many years.
Summary of implications for owners and buyers
For buyers, knowing the GS300 uses a 2JZ-GE clarifies performance expectations and maintenance needs: a refined, durable inline-6 with solid torque, but no factory turbocharger. The distinction from the 2JZ-GTE helps set appropriate tuning goals and upgrade paths if power is a goal.
Conclusion
The 1998 Lexus GS300 uses the 2JZ-GE, a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. It belongs to Toyota's renowned 2JZ family but is not the turbocharged variant that powered the Supra. This setup emphasizes smooth, reliable performance appropriate for a luxury sedan and explains why the GS300 differs from turbocharged 2JZ-powered performance cars.
Summary
Answer: Yes—the 1998 Lexus GS300 is equipped with the 2JZ-GE engine, not the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE. The 2JZ-GE is a naturally aspirated version of Toyota's 2JZ family, delivering confident daily performance with a focus on reliability. Enthusiasts seeking higher power from the same family typically explore other platforms or aftermarket modifications, noting the required trade-offs in reliability and legality.
What engine does a 1998 Lexus GS300 have?
The 1998 Lexus GS300 is powered by a 3.0-liter 2JZ-GE inline-six engine that produces 227 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated engine is known for its reliability, smooth operation, and variable valve timing (VVT-i).
You can watch this video to learn about the legendary 2JZ engine in the Lexus GS300: 47sPerformance On WheelsYouTube · Nov 9, 2023
- Engine type: 3.0L naturally aspirated inline-six cylinder
- Engine code: 2JZ-GE
- Horsepower: 227 hp
- Torque: 210 lb-ft
- Key features:
- Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i)
- Double overhead camshafts
- Alloy construction
What engine is in the Lexus GS300?
Lexus GS 300
Aristos came with a turbocharged version of the 2JZ engine that boosted output to 276 horsepower. The GS was discontinued in the U.S. market following the 2020 model year. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sedan was sold alongside the Lexus ES, which is a similarly sized sedan with front-wheel drive.
Does the GS300 have a 2JZ?
Yes, the Lexus GS300 comes with a naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE engine from the factory, but the high-performance turbocharged 2JZ-GTE was never installed in the GS300 from the factory and is only available via engine swaps. The 2JZ-GTE engine was exclusive to the Japanese market Toyota Aristo and the Supra.
Factory engine
- 2JZ-GE: The GS300 was originally equipped with the 3.0L 2JZ-GE, a naturally aspirated inline-six engine.
- VVTi: Many models from 1995 and later feature a VVTi version of the 2JZ-GE.
Turbocharged engine (engine swap)
- 2JZ-GTE: To get the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE, you would need to perform an engine swap, often using a motor from a JDM Toyota Aristo.
What Lexus has a 2JZ in it?
Lexus models that came with a 2JZ engine include the SC 300, GS 300, and IS 300. These cars typically featured the non-turbocharged 2JZ-GE engine, which is known for its reliability and is a popular base for performance modifications.
- Lexus SC 300: This coupe came with the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE, which was also used in the non-turbo Toyota Supra Mk4.
- Lexus GS 300: Available in both the first and second generations, this sedan used the 2JZ-GE engine.
- Lexus IS 300: The IS 300 was equipped with the 2JZ-GE and was the last Lexus model in the US to use the 2JZ engine. The SportCross wagon version was also available with this engine.
