CUSCO Type MZ Limited Slip Differential | 4A-GE Manual (1984-89 MR2 / 1987-91 Corolla)

CUSCO Type MZ Limited Slip Differential

For 1984–1989 Toyota MR2 AW11 and 1987–1991 Toyota Corolla AE92 coupe equipped with naturally aspirated 4A-GE engines, original manual transaxles and open differentials.

Overview

The CUSCO Type MZ is a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential for the naturally aspirated 1984–1989 JDM / 1985–1989 U.S.-Market Toyota MR2 AW11 rear transaxle and 1987–1991 JDM Corolla Levin / Sprinter Trueno AE92 coupe or 1988–1991 U.S.-Market Corolla GT-S AE92 coupe front transaxle. It replaces the original open differential to limit excessive wheel-speed differences under power, helping both driven wheels contribute drive when traction is uneven.

Choose between the 1-Way configuration, which engages primarily under acceleration, and the 1.5-Way configuration, which adds some locking action during deceleration. Both deliver positive clutch-type engagement; low-speed chatter and periodic friction-component service are normal ownership considerations.

Two Locking Styles in One: Both the 1-Way and 1.5-Way CUSCO Type MZ configurations can be switched between 1-Way and 1.5-Way operation using their built-in cam settings. This gives owners the flexibility of two LSD setups for the price of one, without purchasing another differential or a separate cam conversion kit.

Key Features

• Cone-spring preload: Type MZ uses cone springs to provide initial clutch-pack loading.
• Selectable locking behavior: 1-Way emphasizes traction under acceleration; 1.5-Way adds partial locking during engine braking.
• Factory-configured, convertible cams: Both the 1-Way and 1.5-Way versions use the same convertible 1-Way / 1.5-Way cam arrangement; each arrives set to the selected locking style.
• Serviceable clutch internals: replaceable friction discs and plates support future servicing.

Vehicle Fitment

Toyota MR2 — AW11 / MK1

• 1984–1989: JDM / Naturally aspirated 4A-GE / Original five-speed manual transaxle with open differential
• 1985–1989: U.S.-Market / Naturally aspirated 4A-GE / Original five-speed manual transaxle with open differential

Toyota Corolla Levin / Sprinter Trueno — AE92 Coupe

• 1987–1991: JDM / Naturally aspirated 4A-GE / Original manual front transaxle with open differential

Toyota Corolla GT-S — AE92 Coupe

• 1988–1991: U.S.-Market / Naturally aspirated 4A-GE / Original manual front transaxle with open differential

Fitment Notes

• Does not fit automatic transmissions or factory 4A-GZE supercharged E-series transaxle configurations.
• Engine/transaxle swaps, six-speed conversions and existing aftermarket differentials require separate application assessment; the chassis code alone does not establish interchangeability.
• Installation hardware, side bearings and seals are not included. Correct new ring-gear bolt locking plates are required and must be sourced separately.
• New ring-gear bolts and side bearings are required only when the originals are unserviceable.

Product Specifications

Brand: CUSCO
Series: Type MZ
Product Type: Mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential
Locking Styles: 1-Way / 1.5-Way
Case Size: D-size
Initial Torque: 8–10 kgf·m
Position: AW11 rear transaxle / AE92 front transaxle

Which Limited Slip Differential Should You Choose?

1-Way — Best for Street Driving & Spirited Corner Exits

Choose 1-Way if you want stronger traction under acceleration without additional deceleration-side locking as you enter corners. It is the more approachable Type MZ configuration for a street-driven or autocross AW11, allowing freer differential action when lifting off the throttle.

1.5-Way — Best for Drivers Who Prefer Some Deceleration Locking

Choose 1.5-Way if you want additional differential locking while slowing into corners or using engine braking. This can suit track-focused driving and drivers who prefer a more connected off-throttle response, but it changes corner-entry behavior and is not automatically the better choice.

Type MZ vs. Type RS — Which Locking Feel Do You Prefer?

The CUSCO Type MZ uses a cone-plate design that produces higher initial locking resistance, making it appealing to drivers who prefer a more pronounced, traditional clutch-type differential feel.

For drivers who prioritize smoother everyday operation and lower initial locking resistance, consider the AW11 CUSCO Type RS Limited Slip Differential. Its coil-spring design provides quicker, more progressive engagement with less initial resistance. Both designs are offered in 1-Way and 1.5-Way configurations.

Additional Flexibility: Both available Type MZ configurations belong to CUSCO's convertible 1-Way / 1.5-Way cam family. A different cam setting provides a second locking style without purchasing another complete LSD. The 1-Way and 1.5-Way settings are internal cam configurations, not driver-selectable modes.

Our Recommendation: Choose Type MZ 1-Way for mixed street and spirited driving if you specifically prefer the stronger initial locking feel of the MZ design. Choose Type MZ 1.5-Way when additional deceleration-side locking is part of your handling preference. If smoother, lower-preload operation is your priority, the Type RS 1-Way is the better starting point for most street-driven AW11s.

Available Configurations

1-Way

Includes:

• (1) CUSCO Type MZ limited-slip differential center, factory-configured for 1-Way engagement

1.5-Way

Includes:

• (1) CUSCO Type MZ limited-slip differential center, factory-configured for 1.5-Way engagement

The complete transaxle, final-drive ring gear, installation hardware, side bearings and seals are not included.