Stop-motion video condenses Toyota 4A-GE engine build to two minutes
A stop-motion video shows a complete Toyota 4A-GE engine assembly, with custom upgrades, in just two minutes after the builder spent two years sourcing parts.
A stop-motion video has condensed the full assembly of a Toyota 4A-GE engine into just two minutes, documenting a process that took the builder two years to prepare. The video, created by a Reddit user, shows the engine coming together for a 1987 Toyota MR2, with every component laid out and installed step by step.
The 4A-GE is a 1.6-litre, 16-valve four-cylinder engine that powered several Toyota models in the 1980s, including the Celica, MR2 and sporty Corolla variants. Known for its high-revving character and reliability, the 4A-GE is still popular among enthusiasts and tuners. In its original form, the engine produced around 115hp in the MR2 application.
Custom upgrades for street use
For this build, the owner opted for a bored block, increasing the cylinder diameter by 0.5mm (0.02 inches), and fitted oversized domed pistons to raise the compression ratio to 10.4:1. The engine also received new camshafts and upgraded valve springs, aiming to provide a modest power increase and a livelier response while maintaining reliability for street driving.
The soundtrack for the video matches the era of the engine, giving the rapid-fire assembly sequence a period-correct atmosphere. While the video makes the process look quick, the real assembly was the culmination of years of collecting components and careful planning. The project highlights the ongoing appeal of classic Toyota engines and the dedication of enthusiasts keeping them on the road.
Why the 4A-GE still matters
The 4A-GE’s reputation for durability and tuning potential has kept it relevant decades after production ended. It remains a favourite for classic Toyota restorations and grassroots motorsport, with a strong aftermarket for performance upgrades. This stop-motion video offers a concise look at the complexity behind a classic engine build, and the persistence required to see such a project through.
