A clutch-type limited-slip differential is a substantial drivetrain upgrade for the naturally aspirated Toyota MR2 AW11. It limits excessive speed differences between the two driven wheels under load and can help maintain traction when one wheel has less grip.
CUSCO offers two important designs for the factory naturally aspirated manual AW11: Type RS and Type MZ. Both are mechanical clutch-type differentials, but their preload mechanisms and available configurations differ.
Type RS vs. Type MZ: The Key Difference
CUSCO Type RS
Type RS uses coil springs to create initial clutch preload. Its spring-assisted design emphasizes relatively low initial torque while still developing locking response under load. This can be an appealing starting point for drivers seeking mechanical traction without high constant preload.
CUSCO Type MZ
Type MZ uses cone-spring pressure to preload its clutch pack. This provides a more traditional mechanical LSD character and can feel more assertive as it operates. Preload, clutch arrangement, and vehicle setup all influence its actual behavior.
Neither is universally best: the appropriate design depends on the driver's preferences, maintenance expectations, and usage.
What Does 1-Way Mean?
A 1-way LSD develops its locking action primarily during acceleration. Without intentional deceleration-side locking, it allows greater differential action while lifting off the throttle and entering a corner.
For mixed street and sporting use, this is often a good starting point when the owner wants increased traction on corner exit without deliberately changing the car's off-throttle behavior.
What Does 1.5-Way Mean?
A 1.5-way differential develops strong acceleration-side locking with milder deceleration-side locking. The latter changes the car's response during lift-off, braking, and corner entry.
It is not automatically better than 1-way. Choose it when the deceleration-side behavior supports a defined setup and driving goal.
Are the Locking Styles Convertible?
Configuration matters. Preserve Rad's Type MZ AW11 listing describes internally convertible 1-way and 1.5-way cam settings, although switching requires specialist differential and transaxle disassembly.
The Type RS listing contains configuration-specific distinctions; notably, its supplied 1-way-only model must not be assumed to share the same conversion arrangement. Check the exact CUSCO configuration rather than assuming all clutch LSDs are identical.
What About Maintenance and Noise?
Mechanical clutch-type LSDs can produce low-speed chatter or tire scrub and have friction components that require suitable lubricant and periodic inspection or servicing. Neither Type RS nor Type MZ should be purchased with an expectation of guaranteed silent operation.
The original transmission, axles, and differential configuration must also be considered when planning installation and related parts.
AW11 Fitment Restrictions
The two applications discussed here are intended for original naturally aspirated 4A-GE AW11 models with the appropriate original five-speed manual transaxle and open differential.
They are not direct replacements for automatic AW11s or the factory 4A-GZE Supercharged E-series transaxle. Imported models, engine swaps, and transaxle conversions require application-specific verification.
Compare the available listings:
- CUSCO Type RS Limited-Slip Differential — AW11 MR2
- CUSCO Type MZ Limited-Slip Differential — AW11 MR2
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an LSD increase horsepower?
No. It changes differential behavior and how available engine torque is delivered between the driven wheels.
Is 1.5-way always better for performance?
No. The appropriate locking style depends on corner-entry preferences, available grip, and the entire vehicle setup.
Is Type RS maintenance-free?
No. It is a serviceable clutch-type differential.
Our Recommendation
Start with Type RS if you favor relatively low initial preload in a street-oriented naturally aspirated AW11. Consider Type MZ when its cone-spring preload characteristics or internal locking-style configurability specifically suit your goals. First, verify the original transmission and selected CUSCO model.
Shop related parts
Use these collections to compare available applications, then match the individual part to your vehicle’s build date and installed hardware.
Ask Preserve Rad for fitment help with your vehicle details and photos if the application is uncertain.