This Turbocharged 2JZ Lexus IS300 Obliterates a Dodge Charger Hellcat
This 2JZ Lexus IS300 rat-rod takes on a Dodge Charger Hellcat and dominates the Hemi offering with the help of a giant turbocharger system.
Earlier in February, we reported on an incident that took place between a 1963 Corvette restomod, and a red Lexus IS300. The incident involved Grammy Award-winning Australian musician Rick Springfield, who happens to be a big fan of Lexus products. Just like celebrities, the tuning community also loves old Lexus models, which is why we have seen some exciting reproductions of Lexus offerings.
A few days ago, YouTube Channel Can I be Frank posted a video featuring a 2JZ Lexus IS300, and let’s just say this sedan will not be winning any pageants anytime soon. This first-generation Lexus IS300 can be best described as a modern-day rat-rod. Don’t let the car’s modest appearance fool you, as under the hood this IS300 is an absolute beast.
The video chronicles a race between the first generation Lexus IS300 and a Dodge Charger Hellcat. According to the YouTuber, both cars were running on 85 octane gas, but a quick look at the Japanese sedan would be enough for someone with a trained eye to deduce the result of the forthcoming race.
“Got a big Turbo 2J IS300 racing a Bolt-on Hellcat on E85,” informs the YouTuber as he kicks off the video.
There are parachute mounts installed on the rear end of the Lexus and the car rides on Beadlock wheels. The rear wheels are wrapped in drag-spec rubbers, and a 2JS-GE inline six-cylinder engine sits under the hood of the IS300.
As revealed by the YouTuber, this Lexus IS300 is not powered by a naturally aspirated powerplant. Instead, the 2JS-GE inline 6-cylinder motor has been mated to a substantial turbocharger setup. This is probably the reason why this first-gen IS300 has ditched its front grille to make way for all the air that the turbocharger demands.
The contenders participate in two races, but instead of a dragstrip, these high-performance machines decided to battle it out on public streets. In both duels, the cars race against one another at the count of three, and in both cases, the Hellcat manages to secure a momentary lead before the IS300 sprints away from the Hemi without even breaking a sweat. Nevertheless, the video is a fun watch.
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