Ryan Holz's 2000hp Turbo 2JZ-Powered LC Torana: A Drag Racing Powerhouse
In the world of drag racing, where bent-eights reign supreme, a 2JZ six-pot with 70psi of boost is a force to be reckoned with. And for Gold Coast resident Ryan Holz, the decision to power his LC Torana hatch with Toyota's legendary six-cylinder engine was an easy one. With a background in racing and a deep appreciation for the 2J engine, Ryan's passion for modifying his Torana is undeniable.
Ryan's journey began with a desire to build a powerful and unique car. He had seen Toranas with six-pots achieving impressive feats and was keen to transform his two-door Torana shell into a formidable street car capable of competing in Powercruise events. However, he wanted to avoid the Holden six-pot route, instead opting for the iconic 2J engine.
Ryan turned to Danny Lansdowne and the Spot On Performance team to bring his vision to life. The result was a wild and powerful car, but one that was more suited for track duties than street use. Despite this, the team's creation was an instant success, with the car achieving a best time of 6.90 at an astonishing 206mph.
However, the 2J engine, while powerful, had its limitations. Ryan notes that the engine was showing signs of fatigue, with block deflection and moving main caps. Despite these issues, the car still managed to make over 30 passes with a time of 7.0 or better.
Recognizing the need for an upgrade, Ryan decided to take the car to the next level. He sold off the blown engine and began the transition to a billet 2J engine block, once again with the expertise of the Spot On Performance team.
The team transformed the car into a full-chassis, double-frame-rail Pro Mod, ensuring it was a true race car. They maintained the Torana's street-car origins by removing the wheel tubs and adding new quarter windows, changing the steering, and extending the driver's footwell. The engine received a major overhaul, featuring a Bullet billet block, Nitto crank, custom GRP conrods, and CP pistons, resulting in a displacement of 3.2 liters.
The engine's power delivery is impressive, with a Hypertune Pro Series billet inlet manifold, 102mm throttlebody, Deka 2400cc and FuelTech 7200cc injectors, Kinsler 1300 belt-driven pump, and Aeromotive regulator. The turbo system includes a Precision Next Gen 98mm turbo, 60mm Turbosmart gate, and a five-inch stainless dump pipe.
The car's lightweight design is a result of its race-ready setup, with a 53% bias on the nose. Despite retaining a steel roof and quarters, the car weighs just 2600lb at full race weight, making it incredibly agile.
The LC Torana's aesthetics are equally impressive, thanks to the paint and panel work by Spray King Restorations and the airbrush artistry of Zealous & Kruik Kustoms. The car's first outing at the 2025 Brisbane Jamboree resulted in a blazing 6.73 at 211mph.
Ryan's goals for the car are ambitious, aiming for a 6.40 quarter-mile time and three-second eighth-mile time. He believes the new car drives nicer and is a properly set-up race car, with no compromises made. To achieve these goals, Ryan utilizes a 150hp direct-port dry nitrous kit, launching the car with 20psi of nitrous at 5800rpm.
Ryan acknowledges the importance of a strong team, giving credit to Andy and Danny at SpotOn Performance, Jeff Johnson at Power Management Solutions, and his dedicated race crew: Michelle, Brad, and Chris. This collaborative effort has made the 2000hp+ LC Torana a true drag racing powerhouse.
