N/auto: Build of the day

Capturing Caribbean Car Culture

Every car has a story, but this 1995 Toyota Soarer’s tale is a bit of local legend. Originally a white, automatic 1JZ-GTE non-VVTI, this chassis passed through the hands of numerous enthusiasts, each leaving their mark on its transformation. Eventually, it landed in the capable hands of Edi Legrand of Car Tech Auto, who gave it new life with a 2JZ-GTE heart, an R154 manual transmission, and a single turbo setup. Adane purchased the car in April 2021, during the pandemic, initially as a project to keep busy. A car that ticked the boxes for a drift build: front-engine, rear-wheel drive, and manual. But over time, this Soarer became more than just a project— it became a part of his automotive story. Today, the car runs a BorgWarner S366SX3 turbocharger, pushing out 524 WHP on pump gas and 614 WHP on C16 race fuel—with more potential still left untapped. It’s a machine that embodies both precision and power, maintaining the elegance of a grand tourer while packing the punch of a purpose-built performer.

Build sheet:

• BorgWarner S366SX3 turbo

• Toyota R154

• Link ECU

• Koyo radiator

• Upgraded coolant reservoir

• Large catch can

• Upgraded injectors

• Upgraded fuel pump

• Full 3-inch exhaust system

• 6boost Turbo manifold

• Tein Monosport coilovers

• Whiteline sway bars

• FDF suspension arms

• Strongflex bushings

• DBA rotors

• Supra TT OEM calipers

• Hawk pads

• Upgraded brake lines

• Bride seat

• OMP steering wheel

• ESR wheels wrapped in Federal tires

• GTR R35 coils

• Xtreme Clutch with lightweight flywheel

Future plans?

The goal is to enjoy the car across multiple forms of motorsports in multiple islands – from drift events to time attack sessions and drag racing – while making it more livable on the street. Upgrades include:

• Reinstallation of A/C and power steering

• Integration of a digital dash for modern data monitoring

• Head and turbo upgrades for higher efficiency and output

• More safety upgrades – Roll cage and safety harness