Not every great build starts in a pristine garage with a blank cheque. Some begin exactly like this one did — rough, worn, and overlooked. But where most people would’ve seen a project too far gone, this owner saw something else entirely: potential.
Back in 2016, the car was far from what it is today. It wasn’t clean, it wasn’t fast, and it definitely wasn’t turning heads. But it had the one thing that matters most in any proper build — a solid foundation and the promise of something more.
Phase One: Chasing Naturally Aspirated Power
Like many enthusiasts, the journey started with the basics — getting more power out of what was already there. The initial focus was on naturally aspirated performance, dialing in a combination that would bring the engine to life without forced induction.
The setup evolved into something properly exciting:
- 45mm Toyota throttle bodies
- Split cam setup (272° intake / 276° exhaust)
- Ported cylinder head
- 63mm free-flow exhaust system
This combination transformed the car. It sharpened throttle response, improved airflow, and gave it that raw, aggressive feel only a well-built NA motor can deliver. For a while, it was everything — quick, responsive, and seriously fun to drive.
But as always happens… you get used to the power.
Phase Two: Boost Changes Everything
After a few months behind the wheel, the itch for more power crept in. Naturally aspirated was no longer enough — it was time for boost.
Building on a budget meant sourcing parts wherever possible. Marketplace deals, second-hand finds, and carefully chosen components all came together piece by piece. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real — the kind of build that reflects determination more than money.
At the same time, the car got a well-deserved visual upgrade:
- Fresh base coat / clear coat respray in jet black
- TE37-style replica wheels
Now it didn’t just go better — it looked the part too.
The Setback: When It All Goes Wrong
Just as things were coming together, disaster struck.
A catastrophic engine failure — the kind every builder dreads. A rod through the block. Game over for that motor.
It’s the moment that defines a build. Some walk away. Others rebuild.
This one came back stronger.
Phase Three: Built for Boost
The next step wasn’t just a replacement — it was an upgrade in every sense.
A new 20XE motor was sourced and handed over to Leonard at SSS Performance, with a clear goal: build something strong, reliable, and capable of serious power.
The result:
- Forged pistons
- ARP head studs
- ARP rod bolts
- ARP flywheel bolts
- Standard rods (proven and reliable)
- MR Turbo GT35 turbocharger
This wasn’t just a rebuild — it was a foundation for real performance. A setup designed to handle up to 250kW, with the strength to back it up.
Current Setup & What’s Next
Right now, the car is running on a Blue Arc system, already delivering impressive performance. But like any true project car, it’s far from finished.
The next steps are already in motion:
- Upgrading to a Spitronics/Sustec ECU system
- Adding a proper cold air intake setup
- Fine-tuning the build to push closer to that 250kW goal
Because with builds like this, “finished” is never really finished.
More Than Just a Build
What makes this car special isn’t just the spec sheet — it’s the story behind it.
This wasn’t built overnight. It wasn’t built with unlimited funds. It was built over time, with patience, persistence, and a lot of sacrifice. Late nights, hard lessons, and yes — even hiding a few part slips along the way.
There’s blood in this build. Sweat in every bolt. And tears in every setback that had to be overcome.
But that’s what separates a project car from a passion build.
The Final Word
From a rough 2016 purchase to a forged, turbocharged machine chasing 250kW, this car represents everything that makes car culture what it is — vision, resilience, and the constant pursuit of more.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about how fast the car is.
It’s about how far it’s come.
