The 5 Best JDM Engines Under $1,500 for Your Build

The 5 Best JDM Engines Under $1,500 Right Now

Not every build needs a 2JZ or an RB26. Some of the greatest JDM engines ever made are surprisingly affordable — and they're sitting right here in our Vernon, CA warehouse. If you're building on a budget, here are five engines that deliver incredible value without breaking the bank.

1. Honda D16A — The Unsung Hero ($300-$600)

The D-Series gets no respect. And that's exactly why it's one of the best budget engine swaps you can do. The JDM D16A is a VTEC engine that makes more power than its USDM counterpart, fits in virtually every Civic and CRX from 1988-2000, and is virtually bulletproof with basic maintenance.

Why we love it: At under $600, it's the lowest barrier to entry for a VTEC swap. You won't win any drag races, but you'll have a reliable, fun daily driver that gets 35+ MPG.

2. Toyota 2AZ-FE — The Reliable Workhorse ($400-$800)

The 2AZ-FE powers some of the most reliable cars ever made — the Camry, Highlander, RAV4, and Scion tC. At 2.4L, it makes a respectable 160-170hp and is virtually unbreakable when maintained properly. If you need a reliable daily driver engine, this is it.

Why we love it: These engines routinely go 250,000+ miles. Drop one in your high-mileage Camry and forget about engine problems for another decade.

3. Nissan SR20DET — The Turbo Legend ($800-$1,400)

If you want turbo power on a budget, the SR20DET is one of the greatest deals in the JDM market. This 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder from the JDM S13 and S14 Silvia makes 205hp stock — and with basic bolt-ons, 300whp is very achievable.

Why we love it: The aftermarket support is massive. From $50 boost controllers to full built motors, the SR20DET community has been developing parts for 30 years. This is the ultimate drift/track engine on a budget.

4. Mazda 13B — The Rotary Revolution ($600-$1,200)

The 13B rotary from the RX-7 is unlike anything else on this list — or any other list, for that matter. A spinning triangle that makes a sound like nothing else on earth, the 13B produces 160-255hp depending on the variant and weighs almost nothing.

Why we love it: The experience of driving a rotary-powered car is irreplaceable. If you want something different from every other car on the road, the 13B is your engine.

5. Honda K24A — The Best Bang for Buck ($700-$1,200)

We couldn't make this list without the K24A. At under $1,200, you get Honda's most torque-rich naturally aspirated engine — 200hp and 166 lb-ft of torque stock, with massive headroom for forced induction. The K24A fits everything from an EG Civic to an Element, and the swap community support is phenomenal.

Why we love it: The K24 is the engine you grow with. Start it naturally aspirated, add a turbo later, build the bottom end when you're ready — it's a platform that scales with your ambition.

All five of these engines are available in our warehouse right now. Browse our full engine inventory here or call us at (442) 888-0318 to find the right engine for your build.