Top Used Engines for Your Project Car – Power, Performance, and Great Savings
Introduction: The Engine of Your Build
Top Used Engines for Your Project Car. Every successful project car has something in common: an excellent engine. Whether you’re building a weekend racing car, restoring a vintage classic, or re-tasking your daily driver, the choice of the right engine can make or break your entire build. And let’s face it — brand-new engines are expensive, and not always necessary. That’s why clever builders opt for top-shelf used engines to power their dream cars. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
If you’re searching for the best used engines for your project car, you’re on the right site. We specialize in delivering proven, tested, and affordable used engines to enthusiasts who want high performance without breaking their bank. Whether you’re a Toyota and Honda enthusiast or a Ford and Chevy lover, our inventory is designed for gearheads, tuners, and do-it-yourselfers who need the best but don’t wish to pay showroom prices. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
In this extensive guide here, we will walk you through:
- Why used engines make sense for project vehicles
- The most popular used engines for performance use
- What to think about when choosing a used engine
- How we guarantee quality and durability
- Why buying from us is your top choice
Let’s get started.
Why Used Engines Are Perfect for Project Cars
Project cars are one-off projects. If you have the cash to do it or if you’re just spending money willy-nilly on a full custom build, perhaps the smartest thing you can do is start out with an older engine.
1. Saving Money Without Compromise
New motors could be a thousand dollars or more than their used counterparts. A quality used motor gives you up to 70% in savings, leaving you with more money for performance parts, suspension work, body kits, or customized wheels. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
2. Tested, Proven Performance
Used doesn’t mean abused — at least in our case within our warehouse. Our engines are all compression-tested, inspected, and cleaned before they’re sold. Some are low mileage and have been purchased or brought in from reputable breakers. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
3. A Lot of Aftermarket Support
Most of the top used engines — i.e., Toyota 2JZ, Honda K20, Chevy LS1 — have vast aftermarket support. What that translates to is you’ll never struggle to locate performance parts, ECU calibration software, or engine swap kits. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
Best Used Engines to Use for Your Project Car
The following are some of the most sought-after used engines we carry in stock on a daily basis — and yes, you can purchase them from us today.
1. Toyota 2JZ-GT
- Best For: High horsepower turbo builds
- Specs: 3.0L inline-six, twin-turbo, 276–320 HP
- Why It’s Great: Legendary reliability, immense tuning potential, and capable of handling over 1,000 HP with the right mods. If you’re chasing power and don’t want to rebuild constantly, this is your pick.
We often stock imported 2JZ engines in excellent condition, sourced directly from Japan.
2. Honda K20/K24 Series
- Best For: Lightweight builds, track cars, front-wheel-drive projects
- Specs: 2.0L or 2.4L inline-four, VTEC, 160–220+ HP
- Why It’s Great: Well mannered, revvy, and light. Perfect for swaps into Civics, Integras, or even older RWD platforms using adapter kits.
Our K-series used engines are thoroughly tested and shipped with complete harnesses, ECUs, and manifolds where available.
3. Chevy LS1/LS3
- Best For: Hot rods, muscle cars, RWD swaps
- Specs: 5.7L–6.2L V8, 350–430 HP
- Why It’s Awesome: Incredible torque, bulletproof block, and affordable performance. The LS series is likely the most common swap in the U.S. for a reason.
We sell completely rebuilt LS engines with accessories and even can help with transmission matches.
4. Nissan SR20DET
- Best For: Drift cars, turbo track cars
- Specs: 2.0L turbocharged inline-four, 205–250 HP
- Why It’s Great: Compact package, turbocharged thrill, and go-to for drift kits. Mount it in a 240SX and let loose.
We regularly import SR20DET engines, with RWD transmission package options being available.
5. Mazda 13B Rotary
- Best For: RX-7 projects, light speed
- Specs: 1.3L twin-rotor, up to 280 HP factory
- Why It’s Great: Unique power delivery and unmatched high-RPM thrill. Not for beginners, but perfect for rotary enthusiasts.
We offer used 13B rotary engines, compression-tested and ready to roll.
6. Subaru EJ20/EJ25
- Best For: AWD swaps, rally-type builds
- Specs: 2.0L–2.5L turbocharged flat-four, 220–300+ HP
- Why It’s Great: Boxer design, AWD compatibility, and rally heritage. Ideal for Subaru WRX or GC8 builds.
Our used Subaru engines are pulled from low-mileage vehicles and include turbochargers when necessary. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
What to Look for in a Used Engine
Choosing the perfect used engine is not always about horsepower. You need an engine that meets your purposes, budget, and mechanical know-how.
1. Condition
We guarantee inspected and tested engines — no surprises from the junkyard. Look for engines with:
- Compression test results
- No major leaks or damage
- Clean oil and interiors
2. Mileage
Lower mileage generally means longer engine life. We stock low-mileage used engines, often sourced from countries with stricter emission standards and regular maintenance. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
3. Swap Compatibility
Is your project car plug-and-play, or will heavy fabrication be required? We can help to match up engines with platforms, and often provide:
- ECU + wiring harnesses
- Engine mount kits
- Transmission combos
4. After-Sales Support
You’re not buying a piece of metal. You’re buying a project. We provide after-sales support, installation tips, and warranty policies. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
Why Buy Your Used Project Car Engine from Us?
There are plenty of websites on the internet selling engines — so why choose us?
✅ Guaranteed Engine Quality
We actually test each engine prior to sale. Our technicians perform compression tests, leakdown tests, and visual examinations. We don’t sell mystery motors — only assured ones. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
✅ Honest Pricing
We’re not trying to suck your wallet dry. We offer competitive prices and discounts for bulk purchases or engine/transmission bundles. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
✅ Huge Inventory In-Stock
Need a JDM turbo engine or a US V8? We’ve got it. We’re constantly stocking up on popular swaps. Need something unusual? Let us know. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
✅ Shipping Worldwide
Worldwide shipping — fast and secure. Engines pallet-shipped, insured, and wrapped to arrive in top condition, whether you are in the USA, Europe, Africa, or South America. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
✅ We Know Swaps
We’re not just engine sellers — we’re enthusiasts. We’re familiar with swaps and project builds. Need advice? Ask us first before you buy. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
How to Order
Getting your engine shipped is easy:
- Browse our engine listings
We carry all the big engines — Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, Chevy, and more. - Call us for engine details and availability
Our service representatives will confirm condition, mileage, accessories available, and swap compatibility. - Order now
Secure checkout, PayPal accepted, and financing options in some areas. - Get your engine
Aerospace shipping. Secure packaging. Ready to install or rebuild.
Real Builds, Real Customers
Here’s what some of our recent customers are saying:
“Swapped a 2JZ-GTE into my IS300 with an engine I bought here. Super clean, everything worked perfectly, and the guys even included the ECU harness.” – Marcus D., California
“I was nervous buying a used K24 online, but it was perfect. Compression tested and much cleaner than I expected. Next build, I’ll be returning.” – Jon S., New York
“Bought an LS3 for my ’69 Camaro build. You guys knocked it out of the park. Engine was in excellent shape, and it made the swap so straightforward.” – Eric L., Texas
Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Buy Smart
If you want performance, dependability, and great value, buying a used engine for your project car is the smart choice. You’re not just pinching pennies — you’re getting a proven, vetted powerplant ready to drive your creation to new levels of success.
We keep things simple at our shop. We sell only top-of-the-line used engines, and we guarantee what we sell. If you’re into Euro performance, American muscle, or JDM, we have what your build needs. Top Used Engines for Your Project Car
Want to Find the Right Engine?
Start searching for your engine today.
📞 Contact us now or browse our inventory to find the perfect engine for your project car. Whether you’re building for speed, style, or daily dependability — we’ve got the heart of your machine in stock.
Product Tags:
used motors, project vehicle engine, Toyota 2JZ, Honda K20, LS1 motor, SR20DET, Mazda 13B, Subaru EJ25, engine exchange, performance motor, JDM motor, motor available, rebuilt motor, tested second hand motor, low-cost motor, import motors