Supercharged 2JZ-Powered Lexus IS300 Is One Fun Machine
You're sure to catch a few people off guard in this fully-built and blown early Lexus IS.
Fun Machine
The Lexus IS remains a very popular vehicle among enthusiasts, mainly due to its wide range of customization options. But one thing we don't see a lot of are supercharged, fully-built bottom end examples of any generation. This '03 IS300 that we spotted over at Bring a Trailer certainly fits that bill, however, and looks like one heck of a fun car to drive.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
Few Clues
On the outside, there isn't really any indication of what lies underneath the sheet metal, however. The Millennium Silver Metallic IS is largely stock, save for a set of black 18" HRE wheels and Delinte DH2 tires. The car also sits a bit lower thanks to a set of Tein coilovers. And if you look closely, you can see the single-tipped A’PEXi N1 exhaust system peeking out back.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
Cool Features
The coils are controllable electronically via a center-console mounted panel, which is a nice touch. Cross-drilled and slotted brakes help slow the car down in a hurry, and a front subframe brace tightens it up a bit. But still, the IS has a rather subdued appearance that'll likely lull any opposing racer to sleep.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
Money Maker
Under the hood is where the money lies, in the form of a 2JZ VVT-i engine that was rebuilt by GT Motorsports of Rancho Cucamonga, California. During that process, it received oversized Wiseco pistons, new rods, polished and balanced crankshaft, rod bearings, and main bearings. A Vortech supercharger represents the cherry on top, and it's all controlled via a Unichip Q tuning module.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
Well Equipped
The odometer shows a rather low 48k miles, and shifts are handled the old fashioned way via a 5-speed manual transmission. The black leather interior remains in pretty solid shape and has a nice array of features despite the car's racy upgrades.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
Additional Goodies
The seats are eight-way power-adjustable and feature memory functions on the driver's side. Additional options include automatic climate control, Lexus-branded floor mats, a rear-seat pass-through, and the original factory Lexus-branded stereo. An aftermarket shift knob has been added to the mix, however.
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
Thrill Machine
Despite all of the work and money that went into building this car, it hammered for an insanely low $8,100 at auction. Which is far less than it would cost to replicate the build. So you can bet the buyer is thrilled with their purchase. And probably out there surprising a few unsuspecting folks, too!
Photos: Bring a Trailer
>>Join the conversation about this Turbo IS300 right here in Club Lexus.
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