The allure of a powerful, spacious car with a potent engine is undeniable. While agility and lightweight design certainly have their merits in vehicle dynamics, there’s an undeniable appeal to the robust presence and commanding feel of a larger automobile. This fascination often extends to engine preference, gravitating towards powerplants that offer substantial displacement and forced induction. For many enthusiasts, the inline-six configuration stands out as the epitome of engine design, revered for its sound, aesthetics, and inherent balance, especially when paired with a turbocharger – or even twin turbos.
This intrinsic appreciation for substantial cars and potent engines resonates deeply with the story of Akihiro Nakamura and his remarkable Toyota Soarer Z20. For taller individuals, finding a car that comfortably accommodates their frame, particularly for spirited driving like drifting, can be a challenge. The Toyota Soarer Z20, however, emerges as an ideal solution, offering ample interior space, significant tuning potential, and embodying the iconic angular aesthetics of the 1980s GZZ20 generation. Like many dedicated members of the N-Style crew, Nakamura-san has devoted years to meticulously building and refining his Soarer, constantly adapting and evolving it to align with contemporary trends in car modification and performance. This ongoing journey of enhancement is a familiar passion for many car enthusiasts.
Front view of the beige Toyota Soarer Z20 with Volk Racing wheels
The transformation of Nakamura’s Soarer into its current state is a testament to dedicated craftsmanship, much of which was executed at the N-Style workshop in Gunma. Recognizing the Soarer Z20’s original design focus on comfort and cruising rather than outright performance, addressing the car’s stance and presence became a priority. A stock Z20, even when lowered, can appear somewhat narrow. Thus, Nagahama-san initiated the modification process by skillfully widening the fenders. Staying true to his signature approach, he meticulously broadened both the front and rear tracks by 40mm, seamlessly integrating the extensions using metalwork, eschewing the use of bolt-on fender flares for a more cohesive and factory-like appearance.
Side profile of the Toyota Soarer Z20 showcasing widened fenders
Complementing the widened fenders, an Aragosta adjustable suspension system was installed, lowering the Toyota Soarer Z20 to an assertive stance. The car now rides on RAYS Volk Racing TE37SL wheels, the ‘Super Lap’ edition known for their lightweight construction. The front wheels measure 18×9.5-inch with a +12 offset, carefully chosen for a functional fitment that prioritizes performance over purely visual aesthetics, tucking neatly within the widened arches.
Close-up of the front wheel and fender of the Toyota Soarer Z20
For optimal front-end grip, especially crucial given the Soarer’s substantial chassis weight during aggressive maneuvers, Bridgestone RE55S semi-slick tires are employed. The 40mm widening of the rear fenders amplifies the car’s visual impact, lending it a more imposing presence and rectifying the factory Z20’s somewhat slender rear appearance. Modified side skirts and rear bumper extensions further accentuate the broadened stance, visually lowering the car and enhancing its aggressive demeanor.
Rear three-quarter view of the Toyota Soarer Z20 highlighting the widened rear fenders and TE37SL wheels
In contrast to the front, Nakamura opts for less specialized rubber at the rear. His drifting pursuits prioritize tire slip over ultimate grip, making inexpensive tires a practical choice. The intensity of his drift sessions is evident; after a recent outing at Nikko Circuit, the rear tires were so thoroughly worn that the sidewall lettering had completely disappeared. A JZA70 Supra spoiler, thoughtfully adapted and mounted on the trunk, adds a distinctive flourish, marking a significant milestone in the Soarer’s aesthetic evolution.
Rear view of the Toyota Soarer Z20 showing the JZA70 Supra spoiler and custom taillights
With the meticulously crafted metal fenders seamlessly integrated and all body modifications finalized, Nagahama applied several coats of his signature N-Style beige metallic paint. This distinctive hue has become a hallmark of his builds, instantly recognizable and lending a unique character to his creations. Custom LED taillights represent a modern touch to the rear styling, aligning the car with contemporary JDM street car trends and enhancing its visual appeal.
Close-up of the custom N-Style beige metallic paint and widened front fender
The true essence of this Toyota Soarer Z20 project becomes palpable when witnessed in motion. The exterior design strikes a compelling balance between aggression and refined style, evoking a visceral response as it navigates the winding roads of Gunma. However, the modifications extend far beyond surface-level aesthetics, delving into substantial performance enhancements.
Toyota Soarer Z20 drifting on track
Beneath the hood, the original 1G engine has been replaced with a custom-built 1.5JZ powerplant. This engine configuration, a popular choice among drift enthusiasts, combines a 2JZ 3.0L bottom end with a 2.5L 1JZ head. The appeal of the 1.5JZ lies in its ability to increase displacement by 500cc using readily available 2JZ components, simplifying ECU and wiring considerations. Nakamura acquired a pre-built 1.5JZ engine, a strategic decision that immediately unlocked significant potential for increased horsepower and torque – essential attributes for effectively drifting a car of the Z20’s size and weight.
Engine bay of the Toyota Soarer Z20 featuring the 1.5JZ engine and HKS turbo
A HKS T04Z turbocharger, a slightly older but potent model, delivers substantial boost, capable of producing well over 500 horsepower. An external wastegate regulates boost pressure and contributes a distinctive scream to the inline-six’s already captivating exhaust note. Engine management is handled by an HKS F-CON V Pro piggyback ECU, working in conjunction with the stock Toyota ECU to optimize performance. Nakamura meticulously color-matched elements within the engine bay, such as the silicone couplers in the piping kit and the HKS air filter, aiming for a clean and well-maintained aesthetic, a departure from the often-unpolished appearance of drift cars in Japan.
Rear angle of the Toyota Soarer Z20 showcasing the custom rear bumper and exhaust
Further enhancing cooling and airflow, S130 Z vents have been integrated into the hood, directing additional air towards the turbocharger and facilitating heat dissipation. The headlights have also been upgraded to custom units featuring clear lenses and more powerful projectors, improving nighttime visibility and lending a refreshed, contemporary look to the front end, replacing the often-yellowed original Toyota headlights common on 80s and 90s vehicles. Smoked window tint adds to the car’s menacing presence, while the custom LED rear lights remain a particularly captivating feature.
Front three-quarter view of the Toyota Soarer Z20 highlighting the S130 Z hood vents and custom headlights
Inside, the Soarer Z20’s cabin has been thoughtfully upgraded for performance and comfort. The original leather seats have been replaced with low-mounted Recaro sport seats, still offering recline functionality to maintain a comfortable driving position. Given Nakamura’s height and rearward seat positioning, a Works Bell snap-off release and extended boss have been added to the MOMO steering wheel, ensuring optimal reach and control.
Interior shot of the Toyota Soarer Z20 with Recaro seats and MOMO steering wheel
A suite of Defi gauges provides critical real-time data on engine parameters. However, the factory LCD digital instrument cluster remains a standout feature, embodying the futuristic and innovative design trends of 1980s automotive technology. A Carrozzeria MiniDisc head unit, paired with a pop-out LCD touchscreen for HDD navigation and DVD/CD playback, adds a touch of retro-modern tech. A distinctive 1-ball pool ball gear knob tops the shifter for the Soarer’s five-speed manual transmission, which was swapped in conjunction with the 1.5JZ engine.
Dashboard and interior details of the Toyota Soarer Z20 showing the Defi gauges and LCD dash
A quirky yet functional modification is a garden sprayer, zip-tied to the passenger-side roll cage, plumbed to spray water onto the oil cooler – a testament to the ingenuity often found in drift car modifications. Ultimately, Nakamura’s Toyota Soarer Z20 embodies a personal vision, prioritizing power, presence, and a distinct JDM aesthetic. While the appeal of lightweight, high-revving cars is acknowledged, for Nakamura and many enthusiasts, the allure of a big, straight-six powered coupe remains irresistible. This Soarer Z20 stands as a compelling example of a car built to perfectly fulfill the specific desires and driving style of its owner, achieving its objectives with remarkable success.
