V6 Engine Feedback Wanted Please

[ra23celica]

Hi everyone - this is my first post here.
We drive a 1997 5S-FE (wide-body) sedan and the engine is getting a little tired.
I am thinking about upgrading to a V6 - either the 3VZ-FE or the 1MZ-FE.
I have read through these forums about the cast iron block alloy head 3VZ and the all alloy 1MZ and I know that the 1MZ has the higher power and torque outputs in stock form, but not by much.
I would like some feedback from people who have driven both these engines and what they feel like from behind the wheel.
I believe the 1MZ is a higher revving motor that sings to its red line and gives useful power up there, while the 3VZ is a gruntier motor with most of its torque (240Nm) delivered from as low as 2200 rpm upwards.
Is this the case?
The 3VZ is an easier install into our car, but if the 1MZ is heaven on earth by comparison, I will go to the extra trouble and fit that instead.
Thanks,
Mitch.

[Eye8Pussies]

why would you think that the 3vz is an easier fit into your car? regardless, you'll need to rewire the entire harness

and it's more of a question of aftermarket support than anything else
most people go the 1mz route because you can get a blower for it, whereas there's basically not support at all for the 3vz

[ra23celica]

Here in Australia the 3VZ only came in the Gen 3 widebody, and the only manual V6 can in the same body shape as well. The 1MZ did not show until the Gen 4, that is why I think it would be easier to fit in my car.
I was wanting to know the torque and power characteristics of the 3VZ and 1MZ compared to each other.
I understand that the 3VZ has stronger internals compared to the 1MZ.

[chronoti]

yes the 3vz has some stronger internals but if your going to build the engine the 1mz is the way to go because there are more easier to get forged internals.

and i never knew there was a widebody edition.

i have the 1mz and i think it's a brute.

[ra23celica]

Thanks Chronti, good to know.
Cheers,
Mitch.

[BlueFusion6851]

The real question is weather or not you want to/need to mod. If not, just go for the 3vz, if you want to boost, the 1mz is the answer.