The ’80s, Enhanced: A Wektor Mk3 Supra With 700+hp

<!–

The ’80s, Enhanced: A Wektor Mk3 Supra With 700+hp – Speedhunters



The ’80s, Enhanced: A Wektor Mk3 Supra With 700+hp

This 1989 Toyota Supra A70 by Wektor is one of the most unusual cars I’ve photographed this year. In fact, during the shoot I constantly needed to remind myself that we are in 2022, not in the 1980s capturing images for a bedroom poster.

Wektor is a long-forgotten German tuning house, but back in the day European car magazines were creaming over their cars and comparing them to those from Koenig Specials.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-16
wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-21

The company was founded by Johann Bergmeier in 1988, and at that time Wektor were taking brand new top-of-the-line Mk3 Supras and transforming their looks with a fibreglass wide-body conversion that added 400mm (15.7 inches) of width. This wild styling was backed up with performance tuning that saw the Supra’s 3.0L 7M-GTE engine generate 420hp.

Bergmeier called it the Wektor Competition, and it’s reputed that just 68 cars were built until they were discontinued in ’91.

In ’96, Wektor returned and started building the W48 model, but this was basically a replica Ferrari 348 TS based on the Toyota MR2. That same year, the company wound up.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-22

I have no idea how many Wektor Competitions are still around, but as a bonus, the one we’re looking at today has been treated to a number of modern upgrades including a twin-turbo setup, custom leather interior and a proper sound system. Importantly though, it hasn’t lost any of its ’80s charm in the process.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-24

It’s easy to see where Wektor took some of its inspiration from for this car, and while browsing through some old articles, I noticed that it was nicknamed the ‘SupraRossa’ for this very reason. On top of the Ferrari Testarossa design cues, the car features some of the biggest side ducts I’ve ever seen.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-7

The kit definitely has its quirks; being a 30-year-old creation, some of the panel gaps aren’t the sharpest and there are some cracks in the paint here and there, but none of this lessens the impact. It’s really hard to comprehend that there’s a humble Toyota somewhere behind the outrageous fiberglass body enhancements! And check out that oh-so-’80s stance with no shortage of tire meat and plenty of fender gap.

The Wektor’s owner, Jose Ruiz, purchased the car in Germany back in 2001 while he was working in Spain. At the time, his other option was a Strosek-kitted Porsche 928 GTS, but the Toyota-based creation ultimately won out. In 2002, Jose drove it back to his home in Finland, where it still lives today.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-12

I shot the car at the right time, as it’d just come back from a fully-forged engine rebuild and twin-turbo conversion. I have to admit, I was a bit surprised to hear that there are two turbos strapped to the 7M-GTE when – regardless of the engine – most people are sticking with singles these days. But the company behind the engine work – MW Steel – has a proven drag racing background, so I’ve no reason to not trust their vision, especially since Jose is planning to take the car standing-mile racing next year.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-17

On top of the twin Garrett GTX30s, the turbo system also features a custom intercooler and piping, exhaust manifold, down-pipe and 3.5-inch stainless steel exhaust all from MW Steel. The Finnish tuning shop also fabricated the dual-plane intake manifold and oil cooler system. Fueling comes via a KMS flex-fuel system, Bosch EV14 2,000cc injectors and three Bosch Motorsport 044 pumps.

The last time the car hit the dyno, it made 732hp and 781Nm, running 1.72bar (25.3psi) boost pressure on E85 fuel. With this in mind, the 5-speed R154 transmission was also upgraded with billet gears.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-1

BC Racing coilovers improve the handling, while a big brake kit from Wilwood provides the stopping power. I photographed the car wearing its period-correct, 3-piece 17-inch Tramont wheels, but Jose has 19-inch Weds Kranze Borphe wheels on the way to Finland, so he’ll soon be able to change up the look.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-25

As mentioned, the interior has recently been given refresh with custom red and black leather trim, personalized pitbull logos, and a banging sound system. The most unexpected feature is the JEGS lever alongside the center console, which will deploy the soon-to-be-fitted parachute. Jose will need that once he starts racing the car.

wektor-supra-a70-by-wheelsbywovka-26

As a long-time career man at Nokia, Jose is now in the position to be able to afford a modern supercar, but the fact he’s shunned that in favor of driving this awesome ’80s relic is something pretty cool.

Vladimir Ljadov
Instagram: wheelsbywovka
because@wheelsbywovka.com
www.wheelsbywovka.com

ADVERTISEMENT

OFFICIAL SPEEDHUNTERS SUPPLIERS

Team Speedhunters

Editorial Director:
Brad Lord
Commercial Director: Ben Chandler
Creative Director: Mark Riccioni
Contributing Editor:
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Technical Editor: Ryan Stewart
Contributors: Will Beaumont, Keiron Berndt, Ron Celestine, Mario Christou, Cian Donnellan, Matthew Everingham, Michał Fidowicz, Chaydon Ford, Alen Haseta, Blake Jones, Stefan Kotze, Vladimir Ljadov, Paddy McGrath, Brandon Miller, Rick Muda, Sara Ryan, Trevor Ryan, Dave Thomas, Toby Thyer, Simon Woolley, Naveed Yousufzai


For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Route 22 Nissan TODAY!

Incredible Racing History: This Film Shows How Firestone Worked To Develop The Racing Fuel Cell More Than 50 Years Ago


Awesome Racing History: This Film Shows How Firestone Worked To Develop The Racing Fuel Cell More Than 50 Years Ago

After the deaths of world famous racers like Fireball Roberts and others, the racing neighborhood ultimately decided that sufficient sufficed and that a new solution to controlling as well as carrying fuel was needed. USAC took the lead and also went to Firestone to see what they can figure out in establishing a “secure” fuel container. The firm had large experience in developing bladderized gas cells for airplane as well as various other applications and also they were an all-natural fit for this task. They were additionally neck deep in competing then also, so it all made complete sense.

The work was not as simple as you would certainly anticipate, mostly because of the reality that the fuel control requirements of a race car were totally various than that of a plane. With the enhancement of a bladder, it traditional baffles were eliminated from the gas storage tank which left the fuel cost-free to slosh to and fro with some violence. This dismayed the weight balance of the auto as well as often starved the engine. You’ll see some extraordinary video of that as they ran an Indy Car with clear plastic gas containers to assess the gas movement.

It was the Scott Paper Company that supplied the service (extremely). Their development of the polyurethane foam referred to as “Safe Foam” was the crucial to making the fuel cell work in the 1960 and also it is still the trick to making them job (mostly) today.

Once the concept was shown, evaluated, and shows to be effective, practically every racing body on the planet called for gas cells to keep their rivals secure.

We commonly recognize why we utilize specific things in racing but this is the uncommon opportunity to see just how everything collaborated. Offer it a watch!

Take a look at this movie on how Firestone aided develop the auto racing fuel cell–


  • Share This
  • Pinterest
  • Reddit 0 Tuff Truck All-Star Moments: Watch The Top 10 Greatest Hits As These Tuff Truck Competitors Bring The Pain!

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Garden Grove Nissan TODAY!

What was the Chrysler Volaré?

Chrysler Volaré, 1985

1985 Chrysler Volaré Odds are you’ll never see never ever see among these cars and trucks, however recognize this: Chrysler enjoyed some very

complicated rebadging back in the

Eighties, particularly in Mexico. A lot more world-car fun There are lots of reasons why an American carmaker may use brand names differently in different North American markets. The now-defunct Fargo truck brand name, as an example, enabled Chrysler-Plymouth dealerships to offer pick-ups up North. Don’t bother that Fargo and also Dodge vehicles were absolutely similar.

Today we’re going to take a look at Chrysler’s K-Car, which was sold in the U.S. in between 1981 and 1989. The budget friendly small sports cars, sedans, and wagons were a hit in the U.S., so offering them south of the boundary was just rational. Oh, but the advertising …

The K-Cars were marketed in the U.S. as the Plymouth Reliant as well as the Dodge Aries. In Mexico, the Reliant ended up being the Chrysler Volaré, as well as the Aries the Dodge Dart. Study right into the name changes for the Mexican market shows up a number of reasons for the moniker swap, though every one of them seem like hunches. A lot of fascinating, I believe, is that the Plymouth brand name was swapped for Chrysler.

The Volaré was supplied in Mexico in coupe as well as sedan type, while the Dart was additionally offered as a wagon. Remarkably, a sporty variation of the Dart coupe was relabelled Magnum 400, and also from the ad seen listed below, appears to have be sold as a Chrysler. It’s all really confusing.

Enjoyable truth: At this very same time, the Plymouth Reliant was offered in Canada as the Caravelle.

For 1986, the Dart was relabelled 600, as well as relocated to the stretched K-Car style that underpinned the U.S. Chrysler E-Class, Dodge 600, and Plymouth Caravelle. The Dart sports car and also wagon disappeared.

What occurred following is confusing enough to merit another article. We’ll reach that ultimately. Till then, must you see a Chrysler Volaré, you now understand where it came from. If you see one.

South of the Border Madness! 10 Classic Mexican-Market Auto Ads

What was the Chrysler Volaré?

1984 Chrysler Magnum 400

1984 Chrysler Magnum 400 Ad

1984 Chrysler Magnum 400 Ad(Mexico)Review Flashback! 1980 Plymouth Volaré 1984 Chrysler Volaré 1984 Chrysler Volaré Advertisement(Mexico)Too

Spicy For America: The Mexico-Only 1999-2001 Dodge

Ramcharger 1985 Dodge Dart

 

1985 Dodge Dart Ad (Mexico)

1985 Dodge Dart Ad(Mexico)What Was The Chevrolet Montana? 1986 Dodge Dart 1986 Dodge Dart Ad(Mexico )Listen to the extremely amusing Car Stuff Podcast Mexican Car-Ad Gallery Click listed below for enlarged photos

1984 Chrysler Magnum 400 Ad

1984 Chrysler Magnum 400 Advertisement (Mexico)

1985 Dodge Dart Advertisement (Mexico) 1986 Dodge Dart Ad (Mexico) South of the Border Madness! 10 Classic Mexican-Market Auto Ads Automobile Stuff Podcast Written by: Tom Appel

For GREAT deals on a new or used Honda check out Sierra Honda of Monrovia TODAY!

1320Video: Cleetus & Mullet Go DOMINATION MODE At WCF 2022!!


1320Video: Cleetus & Mullet Go DOMINATION MODE At WCF 2022!!

When Cleetus phoned receiver extraordinaire Peter Harrell to see if he could aid them transform their freshly mounted efficiency renovations into a well-oiled device, he did what he did and made that combo really sing. In this most current video clip from 1320Video you will certainly see Mullet actually extend its legs and reveal the world that it deserves to be on top of the load. The efficiency obtains that they have actually seen with Mullett in the last few months are absolutely nothing short of impressive as well as are a testament to how well all the team collaborates.

Have a look at the outcomes below.

Video clip Description:

After Import vs Domestic World Cup Finals 2021 where Cleetus as well as Mullet didn’t qualify for eliminations, they are back for redemption. With a lot even more power as well as a number of mid-6 2nd passes under their belt, Cleetus as well as the team were certain that Mullet has what it requires to press via the rounds this year.


  • Share This 0 Right Here Are Project Farm’s Top 10 Tools To Get From All Their 2022 Testing!

For GREAT deals on a new or used Chevrolet check out Antelope Valley Chevrolet TODAY!

2022 Los Angeles Auto Show: 2023 Toyota Prius

2023 Toyota Prius

2023 Toyota Prius Revealed at a personal event before the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, Toyota formally introduced the following version of its Prius gas/electric and Prius Prime plug-in hybrids. These fifth-generation hatchbacks obtain a smooth face-lift, a revised battery pack, and also updated security and also connection technology. The firm likewise declares that the basic Prius hybrid will achieve 57 mpg in consolidated city/highway driving.

A lot more from the Los Angeles Auto Show

Count us amongst the chorus of experts excited with the new Prius’ outside design. It retains the same standard wedge shape as both preceding generations, but most of the sharp edges have been smoothed out, which leads to a properly advanced appearance. The cars and truck is 2 inches lower, an inch bigger, and also an inch much longer than its predecessor.

The streamlined brand-new body relaxes atop the 2nd generation of Toyota’s “New Global Architecture” (TNGA). This time about, the company is placing a focus on performance. Front- and four-wheel drive (AWD) alternatives will return to the basic Prius hybrid while the Prime stays front-drive just. All see their four-cylinder gas engines boosted in variation to 2.0 litres from 1.8. The upgraded battery pack switches over to lithium-ion modern technology from the previous nickel-metal hydride, causing a 15 percent boost to output. Complete system horse power ratings are 194 and 196, with approximated 0-60-mph velocity times of 7.2 and also 7.0 seconds for standard front- and AWD models, respectively.

The Prius Prime gets even much more juice with mixed system outcome of 220 horse power, causing a job 0-60 time of 6.6 secs. Regardless of having even more power Toyota asserts the Prime can around 38 miles of all-electric traveling, a substantial bump over the 25 miles of the last-generation plug-in.

Inside, instruments and controls are a hybrid of Toyota’s fully electric bZ4X SUV as well as other guest cars like the Highlander and also Sienna. The Prius crossbreed’s schedule consists of LE, XLE, and Limited trims while the Prime adopts SE, XSE, and also XSE Premium qualities. The conventional tablet-style infotainment display is 8 inches on the LE/SE and also XLE/XSE. Optional on the XLE/XSE and standard on the Limited/XSE Premium is an ultrawide 12.3-inch panel. Full smartphone combination is consisted of in addition to six USB Type-C power factors.

The XLE/XSE consist of Toyota’s SofTex artificial natural leather upholstery, heated front seats, power vehicle driver’s seat, rain-sensing wipers, cordless tool charging, as well as front- and rear-obstacle discovery. Limited/XSE Premium models add a JBL-brand audio system, dealt with glass roofing system, warmed steering wheel, aerated pole positions, and a digital secret that makes use of a compatible mobile phone to lock, unlock, as well as start the vehicle.

Blind-spot alert with rear cross-traffic discovery; lane-departure caution; flexible radar cruise control; as well as traffic-sign detection are common. New is something Toyota calls “Proactive Driving Assist,” which employs the automobile’s video camera and radar systems to supply restricted self-governing capability, consisting of braking into curves and also braking/steering to help keep range in between automobiles, pedestrians, and/or bikers. Limited/XSE Premium versions are offered with a surround-view video camera system as well as hands-free parallel auto parking.

The 2023 Toyota Prius hybrid is slated to get to dealers in early-calendar ’23 with the Prime plug-in following quickly later. Full rates and also fuel-economy quotes will be available closer to that time.

CG Says:

We’ve always been fans of the practical, inexpensive, and also extremely effective Prius. That stated, it’s a little much less clear to us nowadays exactly how the Prius suits the Toyota Lineup. Both the Corolla and also the Camry can he had in crossbreed trim, as well as the previous has to do with as penny-wise with gas as is the Prius. Advertising is Toyota’s trouble. If the new, far better looking, Prius is too sorted as previous editions, count us in.

Pay attention to the Car Stuff Podcast

2023 Toyota Prius Gallery

Click listed below for enlarged images.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Land Rover check out Cole Land Rover TODAY!

Examination Drive Gallery: 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate in Thunder Grey Metallic(a$695 shade option) 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate Class: Electric Vehicle Miles driven: 400 Battery capability: 78 kWh CG Report Card Room as well as

Comfort B+ Power as well as Performance A Fit and also Finish

A Gas Economy A Value B-Report-card grades are derived from an agreement of test-driver assessments. All grades are versus other automobiles in the

exact same course. Value quality is for details trim degree examined

, as well as might not show Consumer Guide’s impacts
of the whole model lineup. Big & Tall Comfort Big

Guy B Tall Guy B+Big & Tall convenience ratings are for front seats only.”Big “rating based on male tester evaluating around 350 pounds,”Tall”rating based on 6’6 “- tall male tester. Drivetrain Engine Specs 402 horsepower Engine Type Electric motors Transmission Automatic Drive All-wheel drive EPA-estimate MPGe: 92 city/79 hwy/85 integrated EPA-estimated driving array: 223 miles Consumer Guide range price quote(optimal problems):
223 +miles Base cost:$58,150(not consisting of $1095 destination cost)Options on test vehicle: Special paint($695), heated guiding wheel($150)Price as checked:$60,090 Quick Hits & The fantastic: Better-than-expected traveler and also freight room within neat exterior measurements; snappy acceleration; indoor looks and feels convincingly high end The excellent: Comfortable; youthful-yet-sophisticated designing The not so good: Complicated infotainment system; not rather as much array as some EV rivals, unexciting steering and also managing CG Says: New to the Volvo

U.S. lineup for the 2021 design year , the all-electric XC40 Recharge appreciates a variety of updates for the 2022 model year. You can

review our complete record of the 2021 version right here. For the new year, the XC40 Recharge is supplied in 3 brand-newtrim levels: Twin, Twin Plus, and also topline Twin Ultimate

. Just one trim level was usedin 2021. Range is improved for 2022. The 2021 XC40 was EPA ranked to travel 208 miles on a complete charge, the 2022 is now

rated at 223. In Consumer Guide screening– during a period of battery-friendly light temperatures– we saw range quotes as high as 280 miles, qualified outcomes based upon our assessment. Our top-trim Twin Ultimate appreciated a premium-level cabin, trimmed in top notch material andplenty of soft-touch surface areas. The whole drive experience is polished, with ride high quality, audio degrees, and also audio-system efficiency all deserving of deluxe vehicles setting you back much more than our test auto. As

we’ve noted in the past, the XC40 Recharge isn’t particularly flashy, with drab steering feeling, and demonstrating substantial lean in edges. That claimed, Volvo’s little electrical crossover is quickly– really fast. It’s quick from a quit and around community, and makes easy job

of passing and also combining chores. One huge plus is the XC40’s spacious cabin. Our big and tall examination vehicle drivers located plenty the Volvo easy to enter and also out of , as well as comfortable also on journeys. Extra Volvo information and also reviews

Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate Coming Soon: 2024 GMC Sierra EV

2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

Coming Soon: 2024 GMC Sierra EV

2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

2022 Paris Auto Show: 2023 Jeep Avenger Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate

Test Drive: 2022 Audi e-tron

Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Ultimate Test Drive: 2023 BMW iX M60

For GREAT deals on a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM check out Monrovia CDJR TODAY!

That Makes The Best Bench Vise? $60 vs $500 “Unbreakable” Vise? Irwin, Yost, Wilton, Ridgid, Heuer, Central Forge

Vises can be costly. I recognize that when I’ve remained in the market for one, I considered both made use of vintage Wilton’s, new high buck vises, as well as low-cost discount vises too. Ultimately my budget plan didn’t enable me to afford any one of the “great” vises and also rather I got a mid-priced smaller sized vise that would get me by up until my spending plan changed.I’ve got to

obtain a brand-new vice for the brand-new store when it’s done so we’ll see what I pick after that, however this video right here from Project Farm will absolutely aid me decide what might benefit me.

Inspect it out.

Video Description:

Brands: Heuer, Ridgid, Yost, Wilton, Baileigh, Irwin, Forward, Central Forge, Olympia, Myoyay. Vises checked for clamp tons, sturdiness from impact, anvil resilience, and also clamp tons failing point. I purchased all of the vises to make sure an objective review.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM check out LA CDJR TODAY!

Here’s Your (Even Bigger) SEMA 2022 Gallery

<!–



Here’s Your (Even Bigger) SEMA 2022 Gallery

There must be some portal-like witchcraft going on at the SEMA Show, because it’s seemingly impossible to cover every inch regardless of how long you’re there for.

And, looking through other galleries on Instagram, it’s apparent that I missed quite a lot this year, despite feeling fairly confident I’d seen the bulk of cars on show at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

DSC04036

That even included taking a brave pill and diving into the North Hall, which is crammed full of marine audio, LED lighting and questionable air fresheners.

DSC04438
DSC04410

And yet, I still missed the new Nissan Z GT4 race car. I’m sure I heard Rob Dahm’s quad-rotor, all-wheel drive FD3S Mazda RX-7 fire into life, but couldn’t actually find it before being distracted by something else just as nutty. Oh, and I completely missed a Buick GNX by The Roadster Shop, a failing I now have to take to my grave.

DSC04347

That might sound a tad extreme, but the want for a GNX is very real right now, so my barometer of what’s an acceptable response is heavily skewed to say the least.

DSC03118

This is of course very annoying for a media outlet like Speedhunters, which is supposed to be on the cutting edge of car culture and photojournalism. But it does at least fill me with some confidence that – despite early concerns of SEMA 2022 being a bit weak – it’s still far superior in size and quality than most shows out there. And that’s also a much better excuse than me simply being tardy and missing cars.

DSC03081
DSC03541

If anything, the subdued opening day lulled everyone into a false sense of calm. Once the sun rose on day two – and hundreds gathered at 8:59am clawing to get in – SEMA resembled a weird episode of The Walking Dead, albeit with more mobility scooters and a crazed lust for free posters rather than human flesh. I’d put money on the zombies being more patient, though.

DSC02944

Not that I blame anyone for arriving early. Before the show even opened there was plenty to see in the public outside area, including the eBay Motors Experience by the main crossing.

DSC04153
DSC04219

Much to my disappointment, this didn’t involve someone offering you half the asking price before abruptly stating your car’s crap anyway. Instead, various products were put on display alongside interviews with builders and much skiddin’ in the outdoor arena.

DSC04303
DSC04297

Given how subdued the indoor displays were this year, I don’t think anyone from SEMA passed that memo to those displaying outside. Maybe this area is classified as international waters in Las Vegas, because it felt brilliantly lawless at times with tyres exploding in the Hoonigan Burnyard and high-horsepower trucks racing in a coned-off area which made intersection takeovers look safe.

DSC04241

Head beyond this and you reach SEMA’s District Nine, an area handily tucked right out the way of innocent show-goers and chequebook builds to house the SPL trucks. SPL is the acronym for sound pressure level, and that basically means building a car with the sole purpose of playing audio as loud as humanly possible.

DSC04262

It might be the polar opposite of Speedhunters, but it turned out to be one of the most bonkers aspects of SEMA. When I first started working in this industry in 2004, the drone of SPL cars would shake your insides from the moment you arrived at an event till the second you left. They were painful, confusing and (for the most part) completely pointless.

DSC04228 copy

What about now? I still don’t understand it, but watching trucks shake themselves apart is extremely entertaining. Especially when one owner decides to battle Marshmello with Tony Christie at 140dB.

DSC04265

Consider it the audio equivalent of running 40psi on a stock motor; you watch because you know destruction is just around the corner, and for the few minutes leading up to that it’s a complete riot.

DSC04326

For all those exhibitors spending hundreds – if not thousands – of hours building cars just for SEMA, I’m sure they’ll appreciate the bulk of this story being focused on the handful of characters who pour concrete into their trucks to stop them rattling apart so quickly. But there is a serious point to this: Car culture (in all forms) is entertainment.

DSC03901

SEMA is a trade show, but it’s also open to the public from Thursday onwards. And if those people can get excited about car tuning, that can only be a good thing for everyone.

DSC03961
DSC03904

Yet, judging by the way some builders act on social media during the build-up, you’d think they were trying to escape a really naff SAW trap which involved Jigsaw and a pair of badly cut fiberglass overfenders.

DSC03916

There are many amazing machines at SEMA which, rightfully so, should be celebrated to the absolute max. It’d be wrong not to mention the Ring Brothers’ 1948 Chevy Loadmaster – a car that took out this year’s SEMA Battle of the Builders competition.

DSC03937

You could argue this blurs the line between car customisation and building something entirely bespoke, but to do so would diminish the mind-boggling amount of work Mike and Jim poured into the Chevy-based work of art.

DSC03933

It goes beyond most of those multi-million-dollar concepts drawn up by manufacturers that never make it into production, because this one’s real. It’s registered and could be driven on the street right now if you so wished.

DSC03162

While we’re on the subject of jaw-dropping builds, another stand-out this year was Driver Motorsports’ Nissan Skyline GT-R on the Vibrant Performance stand. Glance at this car and you’d assume it’s a very tidy R32 wearing a Garage Active wide-body kit with a set of Work SP1s tucked deep in the arches.

DSC03153
DSC03201

But dig a little deeper and the true extent of the work becomes clear… almost four years’ worth to be precise.

DSC03184

The fuel setup in the boot is textbook motorsport yet it’s been fabricated into a piece of art, while the boot lid has been trimmed to match the interior. Sure, it’s got a cage, but there’s no exposed metal in here; even the rear nitrous/air setup has been meticulously built.

DSC03156

That tidy-looking engine is in fact a Nitto-built RB30 monster capable of 1,000+ horsepower. And that’s a genuine power estimate as opposed to the age-old ‘every-built-RB-with-a-single-must-be-1,000hp’ quip.

There’s a lot to take in, but one of my favourite touches is the cam cover. This has had the plug cover welded to the front (cam) cover and trimmed to give space to the mechanical fuel setup and CAS trigger. It’s still undeniably an RB engine, but dialled all the way up to 11.

DSC03159

As someone foolishly taking on their own GT-R overhaul, I have nothing but respect for what Brad and the Driver Motorsports team have created here. Yes, it’s clearly had a lot of cash spent on it, but when everyone else is hell-bent on returning GT-Rs to factory condition it’s massively refreshing to see a US-built one still pushing the boundaries in 2022.

DSC02962

This is all very positive for a SEMA post, because frankly it was a hugely positive (and exciting) show to attend this year. But it wasn’t without its drawbacks, and I’m not just talking about the whole Bluetooth driveshafts meme.

DSC04385

Actually, let’s start there, because this represents a bigger issue in the form of incomplete cars displayed at the show. Undoubtedly this will divide many of you, and while I appreciate both arguments, I can’t help but think it sends out the wrong message for what SEMA (and other shows) should stand for.

DSC03255

Building any car isn’t easy. Issues crop up, deadlines surpass, and costs spiral out of control. The last thing anyone wants is a sea of copy/paste builds, but SEMA doesn’t exactly come as a surprise each year.

DSC04361
DSC04344

Two of my stand-out builds this year, Mike Burroughs’ Ferrari ‘244 GTK’ and Igor Polishchuk’s K-swapped E30 BMW M3, were both finished with hours to spare before making their way to Las Vegas. Why cut it so fine? Because both owners insisted their cars be driven in under their own power as a matter of principal. No power, no show.

DSC04395

And on the flip side to this, I was gutted not to see Stan at Toyo Tires’ Mercedes-Benz 190E build this year. There were no issues to report, it just wasn’t ready in time and Stan wasn’t prepared to rush through it only to then have it appear on FormulaDerp several days later.

DSC04191

This isn’t a point to suggest one attitude is better than another; an individual’s build will always be approached differently to that of a company with product it needs to promote. But what message does it send to a global audience when the product on display isn’t the best it could be.

DSC04084

Cars aside, there’s one more gripe with SEMA which needs to be aired that doesn’t actually relate to the show. In fact, it’s not even exclusive to SEMA.

DSC04021
DSC03450

If your pass allows you in – regardless of what it says on the front – you’ve got as much right to be there as anyone else. It doesn’t matter how many followers you have or how big your name is printed on a Fruit of the Loom tee; nothing elevates you beyond anyone else.

DSC03816

Social media has given the voiceless a voice, and that’s not a bad thing – everyone deserves to be heard. But not all of them need to use a megaphone in the process.

DSC04004

Plus, if the most stressful part of your day is someone walking in front of your shot, your day really hasn’t been that stressful. The fact any of us can call this work is surely the biggest hoax of the 21st century. Go to Vegas and look at cars? Sounds dreadful…

DSC04330

Car culture comes in all shapes and sizes as SEMA demonstrates every year. Pour concrete in your 140dB truck? Amazing, keep being awesome. Bolt twin-turbos in the back of your Aventador? I wish I had the bravery of your tuner. Hell, bring an unfinished car to a show because it brings you happiness? Let’s throw that earlier point straight in the bin.

DSC04288
DSC04157

I cannot think of many industries more bonkers than the world of car tuning. Its diversity is why we love it, but also why it can feel so frustrating at times.

DSC03033

If it goes beyond this and starts to control your life in a negative way, it’s probably time you should take a break from it. Car culture is enjoyment. So, if anyone needs me, I’ll be pouring concrete into a GT-R ready to fit 12 subwoofers in the boot. See you next year, SEMA.

Mark Riccioni
Instagram: mark_scenemedia
Twitter: markriccioni
mark@speedhunters.com

DSC04390
DSC04298
DSC04289
DSC04332
DSC04188
DSC04216
DSC04205
DSC04170
DSC04162
DSC04091
DSC04092
DSC04040
DSC03991
DSC04111

ADVERTISEMENT

OFFICIAL SPEEDHUNTERS SUPPLIERS

Team Speedhunters

Editorial Director:
Brad Lord
Commercial Director: Ben Chandler
Creative Director: Mark Riccioni
Contributing Editor:
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Technical Editor: Ryan Stewart
Contributors: Will Beaumont, Keiron Berndt, Ron Celestine, Mario Christou, Cian Donnellan, Matthew Everingham, Michał Fidowicz, Chaydon Ford, Alen Haseta, Blake Jones, Stefan Kotze, Vladimir Ljadov, Paddy McGrath, Brandon Miller, Rick Muda, Sara Ryan, Trevor Ryan, Dave Thomas, Toby Thyer, Simon Woolley, Naveed Yousufzai



For GREAT deals on a new or used Chevrolet check out Mountain View Chevrolet TODAY!

Turning Back Time Car Show Photos: Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, Trucks, And A Lot More.


Turning Back Time Car Show Photos: Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, Trucks, And A Lot More.

(Words as well as Photos by Jim Hrody)At the end of July, Sycamore, Illlinois is the celebration area for the Turning Back Time Car Show. The town belongs to the extended Chicago Area, concerning 50 miles western, and was initial worked out in the 1830s.
You may have heard of Sycamore before, as it’s the house grass of AutoMeter Products as well as its namesake was likewise obtained for the clay track simply beyond town, Sycamore Speedway.

This occasion attracts around 1000 roadgoing lorries of all types, as well as they closed down a hectic state path for it.Strewn up and down Route 64, on the side streets, and in virtually every service parking lot are stacks of every little thing– road poles, muscle mass vehicles, standards, pickups, lowriders, eighteen-wheelers, 4x4s, receivers, cycles, race cars as well as I even located a single watercraft.

The Turning Back Time auto program is an excellent reason for any gearhead to get in some walking, lots of it.

Take pleasure in the pictures below and do not neglect that clicking any one of them makes them larger and also lets you scroll through the whole gallery.


For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Metro Nissan of Montclair TODAY!

Project Rough: Achieving ‘Perfect’ Sound

<!–

Project Rough: Achieving ‘Perfect’ Sound – Speedhunters



Project Rough: Achieving ‘Perfect’ Sound

Waiting for the call that Project Rough was ready to pick up from R31 House, where I’d left it to be given some very special modifications, has been akin to when I was a kid, counting down the days til Santa Claus came sliding down the chimney with some gifts in tow.

But unlike December 25, there wasn’t a scheduled day that I could count down to. As with everything Shibata-san at R31 House puts his name to, only absolutely perfection would do, and there’s no minimum or maximum time limit for that. And of course, I definitely wasn’t going to try and rush the process.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-20

But, I think that not knowing when the car would be done, actually made the time pass by quicker. Because before I knew it, I was headed back to Gifu to pick up my Skyline and, for the very first time, experience what Shibata-san calls the “perfect” RB25 sound.

The 70/10/10/10 Rule

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-2

Even though the R31 House team had kept me up to date with photos as the build progressed, I still hadn’t heard what Project Rough sounded like. No surprise then that I was dying to hear it.

When I arrived at R31 House, I found my car up in air alongside Shibata-san’s own R31 (stay tuned for a feature on this) so I could see exactly what had been changed to achieve the perfect sound. To explain the order of importance with the parts, Shibata has what he calls the ’70/10/10/10 rule’.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-9

To achieve 70% perfection, the takoashi manifold is required. It’s not surprising to hear that the bulk of the heavy lifting comes from this part alone.

We talked a little bit about the importance of the turbocharger when it comes to sound in the last Project Rough update, but I was a little surprised to learn that its importance only came in at 10%.

Sound aside though, the smaller-sized turbo now fitted means Project Rough has more power down low and in the middle of the rev range, which is right where I need it for the sort of driving I generally do.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-23

The remaining 10% plus 10% comes from a less-restrictive sports catalytic converter and a custom cat-back exhaust. The Kakimoto Racing and R31 House collaboration exhaust adds that final percentage that Shibata-san deems necessary for perfection.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-22

Another added bonus was the massive weight savings found with the new exhaust system. The old setup was Japanese aftermarket but of an unknown origin (like many things that have been changed out in the car over the years) and weighed in at a hefty 35kg (77lb). I forgot to ask Shibata-san to weigh the new system, but a conservative figure would put it at around 15kg (33lb).

The Results

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-8

So what does it all add up to?

[embedded content]

Something like this – hit play above.

Although I perhaps went a little over the top in the video to demonstrate how beautiful Project Rough now sounds, to truly appreciate everything requires you to experience it from within.

With the boost now kicking in almost 2,000rpm sooner than it previously did thanks to the smaller turbocharger, the acceleration forces harmonize with the combined sound of the RB straight-six and turbocharger, creating an experience that continues to produce a mile-wild smile across my face every time I drive the car.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-18
Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-21

I’ve always said Project Rough is a fun car to drive, but something always felt like it was missing. Now I know that that ‘something’ was the complete R31 House Premium Sound exhaust.

Speedhunters_Ron_Celestine_R31House_ProjectRough-19

Best of all, my two-year-old son now runs around the house screaming “Dadda’s car go baawWAAAAA! I’m dadda’s Skyline in a tunnel!” So that means Project Rough is the best car in the world.

Nevertheless, there are still many ideas in my head for Project Rough…

Ron Celestine
Instagram: celestinephotography
www.labcuriosity.com

ADVERTISEMENT

OFFICIAL SPEEDHUNTERS SUPPLIERS

Team Speedhunters

Editorial Director:
Brad Lord
Commercial Director: Ben Chandler
Creative Director: Mark Riccioni
Contributing Editor:
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Technical Editor: Ryan Stewart
Contributors: Will Beaumont, Keiron Berndt, Ron Celestine, Mario Christou, Cian Donnellan, Matthew Everingham, Michał Fidowicz, Chaydon Ford, Alen Haseta, Blake Jones, Stefan Kotze, Vladimir Ljadov, Paddy McGrath, Brandon Miller, Rick Muda, Sara Ryan, Trevor Ryan, Dave Thomas, Toby Thyer, Simon Woolley, Naveed Yousufzai


For GREAT deals on used cars check out Automax of Jonesboro TODAY!