9 Most Reliable Japanese Car Engines of All Time

Summary

This video explores the most reliable car engines from Japan, highlighting nine standouts known for their durability and performance. Engines like the Nissan L28E, Mitsubishi 4G63T, and Subaru EJ22 are celebrated for their longevity, often surpassing 200,000 miles with basic maintenance. The list also features high-performance engines like Honda's K series and Toyota's 2JZ-GTE, which offer a blend of power and dependability. The video poses a thought-provoking question on the future of these engines in an increasingly electrified automotive world.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The Nissan L28E is renowned for its durability and smooth operation, being a classic example of Nissan's engineering in the 1970s and 1980s.
• 🏎️ The Mitsubishi 4G63T is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 known for its versatility, from a daily driver to a 1,000-horsepower beast, and its dominance in rallying.
• 🏞️ The Subaru EJ22, a 2.2L flat-4 engine, is celebrated for its longevity and ease of maintenance, often reaching over 300,000 miles.
• 🚙 The Toyota 5VZFE 3.4L V6 is highlighted for its robust design and reliability in Toyota trucks and SUVs, with a reputation for lasting over 300,000 miles.
• 🏁 Honda's K series engines, particularly the K20 and K24, are recognized for their high-revving performance and reliability, capable of exceeding 200,000 miles.
• 🚀 The Toyota 1UZFE 4.0L V8 is described as smooth, sophisticated, and virtually indestructible, often found in Lexus vehicles and known for its over-engineering.
• 🏆 The Toyota 22R and 22RE are nicknamed 'The Million Mile Engines' for their durability, often found in Toyota trucks and known for their simplicity and reliability.
• 🌐 The Nissan RB26DE, a 2.6L inline-6 with twin turbos, is celebrated for its durability and power, becoming a cultural icon for its use in the Skyline GTR.
• 🏡 The Toyota 2JZ GTE is considered the top of the list for its reliability and tuning potential, known for its robust construction and ability to handle high horsepower levels.
• ⚙️ The script raises the question of whether these reliable and high-performance combustion engines will be replaced by the shift towards electrification in the automotive industry.

Q & A

What is the Nissan L28E known for?

The Nissan L28E is known for its durability and smooth operation, being part of the L-series engine family and found in classics like the Datsun 280Z and Nissan Patrol. It is noted for its electronic fuel injection, which improved reliability and performance over carbureted versions.

How does the Mitsubishi 4G63T engine handle high boost pressures?

The Mitsubishi 4G63T engine laughs in the face of high boost pressures due to its iron block, which allows for serious power upgrades without grenading the engine. It is known for being a tuner's dream and capable of producing up to 1,000 horsepower with modifications.

What is special about the Subaru EJ22 engine?

The Subaru EJ22 is a 2.2 L flat 4 engine known for its longevity, often hitting 300,000 miles as a common milestone. It powered a wide range of Subaru vehicles and is praised for its easy maintenance and the distinct sound of a Subaru boxer engine.

What makes the Toyota 5VZFE engine so durable?

The Toyota 5VZFE engine is known for its robust design and forged steel connecting rods, which contribute to its legendary durability. It is found in vehicles like the Tacoma, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser, and is favored for its reliability and adaptability to various driving conditions.

How does Honda's K series engine, specifically the K20 and K24, demonstrate reliability and performance?

Honda's K series engines, including the K20 and K24, prove that reliability and performance can coexist. These engines are high-revving, capable of reaching 8,000 RPM, and are known for their longevity, often surpassing 200,000 miles with proper care.

What sets the Toyota 1UZFE engine apart from other engines?

The Toyota 1UZFE engine is set apart by its over-engineering, smoothness, and durability. It features six-bolt main bearings, a forged steel crankshaft, and is known for its vibration-free operation. It's used in a variety of applications, from luxury sedans to boats, and is expected to surpass 300,000 miles with proper care.

Why are the Toyota 22R and 22RE engines nicknamed 'The Million Mile Engines'?

The Toyota 22R and 22RE engines are nicknamed 'The Million Mile Engines' due to their renowned durability. They are designed to withstand harsh conditions and are often found in Toyota trucks with many examples still running on their original head gaskets after 300,000 miles.

What is the significance of the Nissan RB26DET in the automotive world?

The Nissan RB26DET is significant as it is the engine that powered the Skyline GTR to numerous racing victories, earning it the nickname 'Godzilla'. It is known for its durability, especially in motorsports, and its potential for high power output with minimal modifications, making it a cultural icon.

Why is the Toyota 2JZ-GTE considered the 'Holy Grail of tuning'?

The Toyota 2JZ-GTE is considered the 'Holy Grail of tuning' because of its inherent balance, cast iron block, and potential for extreme horsepower levels with minimal internal modifications. It is known for its reliability, smooth power delivery, and robust oil system, making it a symbol of Japanese engineering excellence.

With the automotive industry moving towards electrification, do you think engines like these will become obsolete?

While the automotive industry is indeed moving towards electrification, the legacy of these engines as pinnacles of reliability and performance will remain. It is uncertain if we will see their direct successors, but the engineering principles behind them will likely continue to influence future powertrain designs.