1993 Toyota MR2 - Power Pages

In our first segment of "Power Page MR2," we displayed what a stock MR2 with some wear and tear is capable of generating with a basic tune-up and an exhaust and filter. Although a tune-up isn't exactly a performance enhancement, it definitely proved to make some power in the long run. What gave the biggest power increase was the Blitz air filter and Nur Spec exhaust system. Our battered MR2 came in with a baseline of 157.5 hp and left with 180.6.

Performance Components Our second attack on the MR2 consisted of an array of power parts. The MR2, as well as many other of the hardcore Turbo Toyotas, are capable of producing plenty of power, but they tend to always have a power handicap to overcome-boost cut. In this round, we plan to bump the power level up by using a Blitz Diffuser as well as adding boost with a Blitz SBC-iD. When boost is added, we will also need an HKS FCD (fuel cut defencer).

The Blitz diffuser is also known as a straight pipe. We know, highly illegal to remove in most states, but very effective when making power. On the MR2, the factory catalytic mates right to the turbo's cast elbow outlet. Unlike most cats, the MR2 has the oddest shape by far. Removing this isn't as easy as welding in a straight pipe with steel flanges, because the inlet is about 6 inches, while the outlet tapers down to 2.5 inches. The best possible way to remove this unit is to purchase the cast Blitz diffuser. The piece is 100 percent bolt-on and constructed of cast iron. With the extreme heat the turbo system pumps out, casting the diffuser out of iron is the best way to eliminate cracking.

We called upon the new Blitz SBC-iD to boost the engine. The new controller is capable of controlling boost up to 40 psi, but we don't even plan on reaching half of that pressure. The controller is capable of running in auto and manual mode, but to obtain the most mid-range power, we decided to run the controller in manual. Added features to the controller are scramble boost, data logging capabilities and an optional feature to control boost by mph with the Blitz Power Meter.

The HKS FCD is a vital part that is required when pumping up the boost. In factory trim, if we were to pump up the pressure levels past 12 psi, the ECU will activate a boost cut that prevents the engine from reaching levels of extreme pressure. The FCD changes the signal sent to the ECU, allowing boost to be turned up. Please be aware, with added boost also comes added fuel. The FCD is not a fuel computer; it is merely a way to narrow the gap towards making more power.

Dyno TestingUsing our last "Power Page" as a baseline, our last session brought us a total of 180.6 hp and 190.0 lb-ft of torque. This power was acquired by giving the 3S-GTE engine a tune-up, Blitz air filter and Blitz Nur Spec exhaust system.