Stage 1
The Stock 3RZ Test Mule (355hp)
The car originally arrived with a 12R, that lasted about a week before it was removed and a completely stock 3RZ, A340 auto was dumped in its place with a GTX3076 Gen 2 turbo.
Running E85 on 22psi, it made 355hp at the wheels before the stock head gasket let go.
This led to the first upgrades using parts we now sell every day:
Performance Springs valve springs
This setup is still what we recommend as a "Stage 1" build. They have proved themselves on this very car comfortably running at 355hp while being abused.
Stage 2
First Built Motor (450–600hp)
After a tuning mishap, the stock engine was replaced with a forged 3RZ using more parts we still use and recommend today:
On the same 22psi, this combo made 455hp, quickly killing the stock A340. After a built box was sourced and with more refinement, this setup pushed past 500hp, then later 600hp with a turbo upgrade to a GTX3584RS before head-lifting issues forced us to turn it down.
All this on standard Toyota camshafts. Kelford 180-B cams were later added, and the same engine was pushed to 740hp on 35psi.
Stage 3
Full Send: The 1000HP 3RZ Program
The driveline was sold off and the current setup was built, designed specifically to explore (and exceed) the limits of the 3RZ platform.
This configuration features:
Traum pistons and Pauter rods
Custom dry sump system with Savy dry sump pump and one-off oil pan
Enderle mechanical fuel pump
12 × 1000cc injectors
G45-1350 turbo with 4” dump
Built 2-speed Powerglide
Latest update: Haltech Nexus R5 ECU
This setup has already sent the car to a best of:
8.42 @ 162mph
Today — And What’s Next
The Corona now sits dormant in the shed while planning begins for the next evolution.
The new target:
1000kW (1,340hp)
and a push deeper into the 8s or beyond.
Everything we’ve learned from this platform filters straight back into the parts and advice we offer 3RZ owners across Australia.
This car isn’t just a showpiece, it’s the backbone of Tuna Racing R&D.