I think an all aluminum, along with a little more luxury, would help them completely destroy the BMW 330i. It would help achieve the 50/50 weight distribution, and who knows they could tune it to produce more power too.
I'm sure the VVTiL version of the Altezza sold in Japan with a high revving 4 cylinder that makes 212 or so hp, mated to a 6 speed, it perhaps a great performer. I'm not sure if it really is, since I haven't read anything on it yet. But I'm certain that it has better weight distribution, thanks to a lighter engine - may suffer from lower torque though.
Again, as many argue, the iron block is much tougher and can take many more mods than an all aluminum. And it would cost a **** load of money to develop a new engine - but they have a **** load of money.
If I were a decision maker at Toyota, I'd have the engineers develop an all aluminum 6, with VVTiL, that could be used in at least 6 or 7 different cars (IS, camry, avalon, highlander, etc.) They should only change the displacement for each individual design to alter torque and identity.
Toyota does have other six cylinder engines that they sell in Japan and other parts of the world. Perhaps they should test market the IS200 here. I bet a whole bunch of our IS fans would opt for it...since it would be cheaper, lighter, would have a 6 speed tranny, and can be easily modified.
Just my opinion. I still love my IS!!
black/ivory
17"