SEMA 2023: reimagined E-type, 350Z and LC pickup

ENEOS Jaguar E-Type 2JZ

ENEOS, Japan’s largest oil company and supplier of motor oil and transmission fluids to numerous Asian vehicle manufacturers, takes center stage at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The company, renowned for its premium vehicle lubricants, presents its latest products and extraordinary projects, focusing on the facts without promotional language.

Iconic ENEOS Jaguar E-type 2JZ

The star of ENEOS’ exhibit is a 1969 Jaguar XKE 2+2, marking 75 years of sports car heritage. This iconic car, celebrated as one of the most beautiful ever made, reaches back to 1961 when the first E-Type rolled off the production line. Renowned for its stunning design, the E-Type boasted exceptional performance and racing success. Featuring a 3.8L inline-six engine, it achieved 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph, leaving an enduring legacy in the classic car world.

In an imaginative twist, professional drift racer Faruk Kugay from DevSpeed Motorsports has breathed new life into this classic Jaguar by fitting it with a modified Toyota 2JZ-GTE inline-6 24v 3.0L engine from a Supra, acknowledging the power of Japanese engineering. The 2JZ-GTE, famous for its durability and tuning potential, delivered 320 hp and became an icon in the world of aftermarket modifications and drifting, making it a sought-after powerplant for enthusiasts. This innovative conversion marries the artistry of Europe with the ingenuity of Japan, a true testament to automotive engineering.

Technical Specs:

Engine: Toyota 2JZ-GTE inline-6 24-valve DOHC 3.0-liter with various upgrades.

Transmission: E36 BMW M3 ZF five-speed manual transmission.

Suspension/Chassis: Silver’s coilovers, E60 BMW rear subframe, and custom front suspension.

Brakes: 2003 Corvette front brakes, 2010 BMW 535i rears.

Wheels & Tires: 17” Rotiform STL wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE-71 RS tires.

Exterior: Custom 3D-printed widebody.

Interior: Equipped with racing essentials.

ENEOS Twin-Engined Nissan 350Z

ENEOS Twin-Engined Nissan 350Z

Standing tall outside SEMA’s Central Hall is the awe-inspiring 2003 Nissan 350Z. This exceptional creation, a winner of the ENEOS/Pit+Paddock 2023 SEMA Show Car Contest, is the brainchild of Ashely Robinson, reflecting the true spirit of a drifter’s dream. Initially acquired for USD 800 and intended for drifting, the Nissan underwent a remarkable transformation. The damaged rear end was replaced with a robust roll-cage, mimicking the original body’s shape. However, after two years of tire-shredding action and a rollover incident, Robinson’s commitment took a unique turn. The idea of twin-engined power was born.

The 350Z now features two turbocharged Honda K24 engines, positioned in the front and middle, emphasizing the unconventional and daring spirit that defines the world of drifting. With optimal lubrication and protection from ENEOS high-performance engine oil, this automotive Frankenstein symbolizes the power of innovation and resilience.

Technical Specs:

Engines: Twin turbocharged Honda K24 engines in front and middle positions.

Drivetrain: Customized to accommodate two engines, including differentials and driveshafts.

Suspension/Chassis: Enhanced with custom features and roll-cage.

Brakes: High-performance brakes for improved stopping power.

Wheels & Tires: Equipped with specialized wheels and tires for drifting.

Exterior: Custom modifications and exposed exo-skeleton.

Interior: Designed with drifting essentials for maximum control.

The Timeless 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup

1997 Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup

RPM Off-Road Garage, in collaboration with ENEOS, has given a vintage touch to the robust 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup. The vehicle marries Japanese truck heritage with the ruggedness demanded by off-road enthusiasts. Displayed alongside the ENEOS twin-engined Nissan 350Z, this creation showcases the fusion of durability and vintage aesthetics. RPM owner Steve Lam acquired a damaged 1997 Land Cruiser FZJ80 chassis due to its off-road capabilities and solid axles, ideal for rough terrains.

The Land Cruiser’s 2009 HZJ79 pickup body, sourced from the Land Cruiser Heritage Museum, added a unique touch with leftover parts imported from the Middle East. To create this extraordinary hybrid, the FZJ80 frame was extended by 18 inches and mounts were fabricated to attach the HZJ79 body, resulting in a vehicle that combines off-road prowess with vintage charm.

Technical Specs:

Engine: Toyota 1FZ-FE 4.5-liter DOHC 24-valve Inline-6.

Drivetrain: Enhanced differentials, drive shafts, and optimal lubrication.

Suspension/Chassis: Improved chassis with advanced suspension components.

Wheels & Tires: Heavy-duty wheels and off-road tires for enhanced performance.

Exterior: Custom modifications and exterior enhancements.

Interior: Equipped with essential off-road features.

ENEOS emerges as a prominent presence at SEMA 2023, emphasizing its role in exceptional automotive projects. The trio of vehicles – the ENEOS Jaguar E-Type, the twin-engined Nissan 350Z, and the reimagined Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup – not only showcases automotive innovation but also highlight ENEOS’ commitment to supporting passion and craftsmanship in the automotive world.

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