Intro
The Toyota Soarer Z20 emerged in 1986 as Toyota’s technological flagship, representing Japanese engineering excellence during Japan’s economic boom. This luxury grand tourer showcased cutting-edge features like electronically controlled air suspension, digital dash displays, and climate control systems that were revolutionary for its era.
In JDM culture, the Soarer holds legendary status as a sophisticated alternative to its sportier sibling, the Supra. While never officially imported to North America, the Soarer gained cult following through grey-market imports and media exposure, embodying the perfect balance between luxury and performance that defined Japan’s bubble era excess.
This particular 1989 build stands out for its preservation of period-correct modifications while incorporating subtle modern upgrades. Unlike many examples that have been heavily modified or neglected, this Soarer maintains the original design language while enhancing the performance aspects that made these vehicles coveted among Japanese domestic market enthusiasts.
Builder Profile
Takashi Nakayama, known in drifting circles as “Ronin,” immigrated to California from Osaka in 1995, bringing with him two decades of experience as a Toyota electrical systems engineer. After establishing his shop, Ronin Motorsports in Torrance, his Z20 Soarer build represents his philosophy of “invisible perfection”—modernizing classics while preserving their original character.
Nakayama’s approach blends period-correct JDM parts with subtle modern upgrades. He remains active in Southern California’s Japanese nostalgic car scene and occasionally competes in time attack events. His reputation for immaculate wiring harnesses and flawlessly integrated electronics upgrades has made him the go-to specialist for 80s/90s Toyota restoration projects among collectors seeking reliability without sacrificing authenticity.
Why We Love It
The Z20 Soarer exists in that perfect equilibrium between analog purity and technological ambition. Its smooth 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-six doesn’t just produce power—it delivers it with a distinctive urgency that builds like a wave, a characteristic completely absent in modern turbocharged powerplants. The sequential turbo setup was revolutionary for its time, eliminating the brutal lag common in earlier forced induction systems.
What truly distinguishes the Soarer is its dual nature. While contemporary grand tourers like the R32 Skyline embraced outright aggression, Toyota’s engineers crafted something more nuanced. The chassis communicates with subtle dialogue rather than shouting—progressive weight transfer through sweeping mountain passes becomes a conversation between driver and machine. Its double-wishbone suspension at all four corners provides that rare combination of compliance and precision that modern adaptive systems still struggle to replicate.
The interior represents peak late-Shōwa Era luxury design—the digital dash and electroluminescent displays reflect Japan’s technological optimism before the economic bubble burst. Details like the integrated climate control touchscreen and analog chronometer speak to an era when Japanese manufacturers were redefining luxury on their own terms, not merely imitating European standards.
The Z20 Soarer doesn’t demand attention like its contemporaries, but enthusiasts recognize its significance—it represents the sophisticated counterpoint to Japan’s more celebrated performance icons, embodying Toyota’s philosophy of kaizen in its most elevated form.
Mods
Engine & Drivetrain
- HKS Super Power Flow air intake system
- TOM’S exhaust manifold (1JZ models)
- Trust TD06-20G turbo upgrade (1JZ)
- Blitz intercooler
- ARC oil cooler
- HKS F-CON V Pro engine management
- SARD fuel pressure regulator
- Exedy clutch kit
- OS Giken limited-slip differential
Suspension & Brakes
- TEIN Super Street coilovers
- Cusco front and rear strut bars
- NISMO sway bar kit
- Project μ brake pads
- Endless stainless steel brake lines
- Brembo 4-pot front calipers
- Cusco underbody reinforcement bar
Wheels & Tires
- RAYS Volk Racing TE37 18×8.5J +30 (front), 18×9.5J +22 (rear)
- Work Meister S1 3P 18×9J +22 (period-correct 3-piece wheels)
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R 235/40R18 (front), 255/35R18 (rear)
- Project KICS R40 wheel lug nuts
Exterior / Aero
- TRD front lip spoiler
- TRD side skirts
- WALD rear wing
- SARD GT rear wing (motorsport style)
- TRD carbon fiber hood
- RAYBRIG HID headlight conversion
- Ganador side mirrors
- Crystal LED tail lights
Interior
- BRIDE Zeta III seats
- Personal Neo Grinta steering wheel with WORKS Bell hub
- Cusco roll cage (half or full depending on usage)
- Nardi shift knob
- TRD aluminum pedal set
- Defi gauges (boost, oil pressure, water temp)
- Alpine head unit with period-correct cassette/CD
- Pivot multi-gauge display
Electronics / ECU
- HKS EVC boost controller
- A’PEXi SAFC-II fuel controller
- Blitz turbo timer
- Pioneer carrozzeria navigation (period JDM unit)
- Kenwood component speakers
- Alpine V12 amplifier
- Apexi Power FC ECU
- Blitz F-CON iD
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The 1989 Toyota Soarer Z20 build harmonizes modifications across multiple systems to create a balanced, cohesive driving experience. Each component has been selected with deliberate purpose, creating synergy between power delivery, chassis dynamics, and aesthetic elements.
The powertrain modifications—including the upgraded turbocharger, revised fuel management, and freer-flowing exhaust—work in concert to deliver reliable power without compromising the Soarer’s grand touring character. The recalibrated suspension components maintain comfort while improving handling precision through corners, reflecting a street-focused build with occasional track capability.
This particular Z20 embodies a street-performance philosophy that respects the original vehicle’s luxury-sport identity while enhancing its capabilities. The subtle exterior modifications and interior refinements preserve the Soarer’s sophisticated presence while modernizing its performance envelope.
Rather than pursuing extreme specialization for drift or time attack, this build achieves a measured equilibrium—creating a versatile GT car capable of spirited mountain drives, occasional track days, and comfortable daily driving, all while maintaining mechanical reliability and driver engagement.
FAQ
How reliable is the 1989 Toyota Soarer Z20?
The 1989 Toyota Soarer Z20 is known for exceptional reliability when properly maintained. The 1JZ-GTE and 7M-GTE engines can easily reach 200,000+ miles. Regular oil changes and timing belt maintenance are essential. The electronically controlled suspension components are typically the first to require attention after decades of use.
What are the common issues with the Z20 Soarer?
Common issues include failing air suspension components, ECU capacitor leakage (causing electronic glitches), climate control display pixel failures, and oil sludge buildup in turbocharged models. The 7M-GTE engines are notorious for head gasket failures if the factory head bolts weren’t properly torqued.
What’s the tuning potential for the 1989 Soarer?
The 1JZ-GTE engine offers excellent tuning potential with 400-500hp achievable with upgraded turbo, intercooler, fuel system and engine management. The 7M-GTE can handle similar power with strengthened head gasket and studs. Both respond well to modern ECU solutions like Link or Haltech for maximum performance.
What are the best modifications for a Z20 Soarer?
The best modifications include ABS to non-ABS conversion (for simplified maintenance), coilover suspension conversion (replacing problematic air suspension), upgraded turbo (CT26 to CT27 or larger), ECU upgrade, and improved intercooling. Handling benefits greatly from polyurethane bushings and modern performance tires.
Is the Z20 Soarer expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs are moderate. Parts availability can be challenging, especially interior and body components. Mechanical parts are generally shared with other Toyota models, keeping costs reasonable. The complex electronics and specialized suspension components are the most expensive areas to maintain.
How does the Z20 compare to the later Z30 Soarer?
The Z20 features more angular styling versus the Z30’s smoother design. The Z20 offers more raw driving experience and tuning potential, while the Z30 provides more refinement and luxury features. The Z20’s 1JZ/7M engines are generally considered more tunable than the Z30’s 1JZ-GTE/2JZ-GE options in stock form.
What should buyers look for when purchasing a 1989 Soarer?
Look for detailed maintenance records, functioning electronics (especially climate control and digital dash), condition of suspension components, and evidence of proper timing belt service. Check for rust around wheel arches and underbody. Verify if the head gasket has been addressed on 7M-GTE models with upgraded studs.
Conclusion
The 1989 Toyota Soarer Z20 stands as more than a historical footnote—it represents Japanese automotive engineering at its pinnacle during a golden era. Today’s enthusiasts continue to seek out these grand tourers for their blend of luxury, performance, and technological innovation that remains impressive even by modern standards. The Soarer’s influence echoes in contemporary vehicle design, with its forward-thinking features having become standard expectations.
The Z20’s enduring appeal within JDM culture cannot be overstated. As a cornerstone of the rising Japanese collector market, it embodies the qualities that enthusiasts revere: meticulous engineering, distinctive styling, and a driving experience that prioritizes both comfort and engagement. The Soarer community continues to grow globally, preserving these machines while celebrating the unique vision they represent—a perfect encapsulation of Japan’s automotive ambition during its economic height. For the discerning enthusiast, the Z20 Soarer remains not just a car to own, but a cultural artifact to be experienced.