The fourth-generation Supra arrived in 1993 and ran through to 2002, built around a 3.0L inline-six that's since become shorthand for turbo reliability and tuning headroom. It's a car people import specifically for one engine — and the reputation is earned.
Overview
JDM Supras split into naturally-aspirated SZ/SZ-R trims running the 2JZ-GE at around 220–222PS, and turbocharged RZ/RZ-S trims running the twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE at 280PS (under Japan's gentlemen's-agreement power cap — real-world output is comfortably higher). The RZ is the one most buyers are chasing: sequential twin turbos, a six-speed manual on later cars, and a factory-strong bottom end that's handled four-figure horsepower builds without breaking a sweat. Toyota built the A80 in both automatic and manual form throughout the run, with manual RZ cars commanding the strongest demand today.
2JZ-GTE Twin Turbo
280PS from the factory, sequential twin turbos, and the six-speed manual most buyers specifically want. This is the trim the Supra's reputation is built on.
2JZ-GE Naturally Aspirated
A lighter, simpler car with the non-turbo 2JZ-GE at around 220PS — cheaper to buy and still a genuinely strong grand tourer, just without the RZ's tuning ceiling.
Auction Pricing
Naturally-aspirated SZ/SZ-R models typically trade from over ¥4,000,000 at Japanese auction depending on transmission and condition. Twin-turbo RZ models — the ones most buyers want — generally run from over ¥8,000,000 for clean, low-mileage manual examples, with exceptional, documented cars clearing ¥10,000,000 or more. Manual transmission commands a real premium over automatic across every trim.
What to Check
Because the 2JZ-GTE handles big power reliably, a huge proportion of surviving A80s have been modified — verifying what's actually been done, and whether it was done properly, matters more than chasing an unmodified example. Check turbo condition and boost history, transmission wear (especially on high-power manual cars), and any signs of past accident repair given how desirable and consequently how heavily-driven these cars have been. We inspect every car in person before you bid, not after.
Import Eligibility
Rolling Eligible
Most A80s (built before August 2001) have already cleared the 25-year threshold. The final cars, built to 2002, clear progressively through to August 2027.
Rolling Eligible
Same rolling 25-year window as Australia. See our Import page for state-level registration notes.
MOT Only
Past the 10-year IVA threshold — a standard MOT is all that's needed, regardless of build date.
FAQ
Should I buy a manual or automatic Supra?
Manual RZ cars command the strongest demand and hold value best, but well-kept automatics are more attainable and still a genuinely capable grand tourer if outright involvement isn't your priority.
Is a modified 2JZ-GTE a problem?
Not inherently — the platform is built for it. What matters is quality of work and documentation. We check exactly that during inspection before you commit to a bid.