What engine does a 1991 LS400 have?
The 1991 Lexus LS400 uses a 1UZ-FE 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering around 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque in US-spec models.
As Lexus’ flagship sedan of the era, the LS400 paired this powerplant with a focus on quiet, refined performance and long-term reliability. The 1UZ-FE is part of Toyota’s UZ family of V8 engines, featuring a 32-valve DOHC design with an aluminum block and heads to reduce weight while maintaining strong build quality for luxury applications.
Engine specifications
Key technical specifications and configuration of the 1UZ-FE powering the 1991 LS400 are listed below.
- Engine family: 1UZ-FE
- Displacement: 4.0 liters
- Configuration: V8, 32-valve double overhead cam (DOHC)
- Materials: Aluminum block and cylinder heads
- Valvetrain: 4 valves per cylinder
- Power: approximately 250 horsepower (SAE net, 1991 US-spec)
- Torque: approximately 260 lb-ft (SAE net)
These specifications reflect the LS400’s emphasis on smooth, usable power for comfortable cruising and a refined driving experience typical of early Lexus luxury cars.
Design and performance highlights
The 1UZ-FE’s design combines a lightweight aluminum block and heads with a robust 32-valve DOHC setup to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque, contributing to the LS400’s reputation for quiet, effortless acceleration and refined operation under load.
Context and significance
The 1991 LS400’s engine choice helped establish Lexus as a maker of luxury cars that prioritized reliability, smoothness, and everyday usability. The 1UZ-FE would become a hallmark powerplant for the brand in the early 1990s, powering not only the LS400 but also other Lexus models through subsequent iterations.
Summary
In short, the 1991 LS400 is powered by a 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE V8 engine, a cornerstone of early Lexus luxury engineering that provided quiet, confident performance and build-quality that contributed to the model’s enduring reputation.
