Toyota and Nissan stand as two of the most historic Japanese automotive brands, renowned for producing dependable, affordable passenger cars.
Beyond their mainstream offerings, both brands also dominated the niche sports car market, building vehicles that continue to hold legendary status. The 1990s presented a golden era for these automakers, enabling them to create some of the most iconic sports cars in automotive history.
Among these icons, the Nissan GT-R Skyline R34 and Toyota Supra Mk4 (A80) remain the pinnacles of Japanese engineering from the 90s.
These cars were technological marvels, equipped with advanced powertrains and cutting-edge designs that remain impressive to this day. This article delves into the key differences between these two legends, starting with their engines.
Performance: RB26 vs. 2JZ – Battle of Overbuilt Engines
Engines define the legacy of these JDM legends. The RB26 and 2JZ are revered not just for their performance but also for their reliability and ability to handle immense power with minimal modifications.
Both engines produced more power than their manufacturers officially advertised, a testament to their overengineered nature.
Nissan’s RB26DETT
The RB26, first introduced with the R32 GT-R in 1989, powered the R33 and R34 GT-Rs as well. This 2.6-liter twin-turbo inline-six featured a cast-iron block, aluminum alloy cylinder heads, forged internals, and a parallel twin-turbo setup.
The engine’s oversquare design allowed it to rev higher, reaching a redline of 7,200 RPM. Despite its age, the RB26 adhered to Japan’s “gentlemen’s agreement” that limited horsepower to 276 though the R34 GT-R likely produced closer to 320 horsepower. The RB26 was paired with a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system.
Toyota’s 2JZ-GTE
Debuting in the Mk4 Supra, the 2JZ-GTE was newer and more advanced in some respects. Like the RB26, it utilized a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and forged internals.
However, it featured a sequential twin-turbo setup, where a smaller turbo spooled quickly at low RPMs, and a larger turbo engaged at higher RPMs to reduce turbo lag.
Despite weighing more than the RB26, the 2JZ’s robustness allowed it to handle substantial power increases, making it a favorite for tuners.
U.S.-spec Supras boasted 320 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque, sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
Tuning Potential: 2JZ Takes the Crown
The 2JZ-GTE is celebrated for its tuning potential, often capable of reaching 600 horsepower with minimal upgrades. With modern tuning techniques, many Supras today can achieve over 1,000 horsepower, surpassing the limits of stock internals.
By contrast, while the RB26 is also highly tunable, the absence of widespread availability in the U.S. limited its modification culture. Nevertheless, some RB26-powered GT-Rs have been built to exceed 1,000 horsepower, albeit with more extensive upgrades.
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive vs. Rear-Wheel Drive
One of the most significant differences between these cars lies in their drivetrains. The Supra relies on a rear-wheel-drive layout, emphasizing driving dynamics. Meanwhile, the GT-R employs Nissan’s ATTESA-ETS all-wheel-drive system, a highlight of its design.
This system can send up to 100% of power to the rear wheels under normal conditions and redistribute up to 50% to the front when slip is detected. Coupled with HICAS rear-wheel steering, the R34 offered unparalleled traction and handling.
Interior and Technology
Both cars reflect 90s design philosophies but differ in focus. The R34 featured an optional Multi-Function Display (MFD) that provided real-time updates on boost pressure, oil temperature, and more.
Conversely, the Supra’s cockpit was driver-centric, with a wrap-around dashboard. Unlike the GT-R, the Supra offered a targa top option for added versatility.
Pricing and Availability
The enduring appeal of these cars, bolstered by their presence in pop culture, has driven prices sky-high. Supras, once affordable at around $20,000, now command upwards of $100,000, with pristine examples exceeding $200,000.
The R34 GT-R, more limited in availability due to U.S. import restrictions, often starts at $112,000, with rare variants like the Z-Tune fetching over $400,000.
Both the Nissan GT-R Skyline R34 and Toyota Supra Mk4 stand as icons of 90s automotive engineering, each excelling in different areas.
While the Supra wins in tuning potential and simplicity, the R34’s advanced technology and all-wheel-drive system make it a formidable rival.