So VVT-i and AW3 is going to require some ECU trickery or custom management. The 1UZ ECU has integrated TCU so if it doesn't see it's transmission it goes into limp mode, so some guys run a trans simulator to run a manual or 4 speed. The non VVT-i ECU expects to see the A340/AW3 so that's why that swap just works. I'm using the A650 in my swap, the biggest benefit to the 1UZ VVT-i swap for me was getting the 5 speed auto. It knows when to shift and is geared to make the most of the power band.
It most certainly is! 300hp through 5 gears and 4.90 finals, it should be sporty. I'm retaining the Super Select and adding dual torsen LSD's so it should be sticky as well. Maybe down the line i'll add a turby but for now i'm just going to be a regular guy.Hmmm..... Am I counting correctly? That looks an awe full lot like a small block V8