FYI: Dive into the latest updates on two cherished project cars, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C and the Toyota Corolla Levin Hatchback, as they embark on new chapters of restoration and performance enhancement.
Project Car Updates: Subaru & Toyota Reimagined
Embarking on another year of automotive magic, two cherished project cars, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C and the Toyota Corolla Levin Hatchback, have been under the meticulous care of enthusiasts, each revealing a journey of transformation and ingenuity.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C: Focused Enhancements
Prioritizing time and resource efficiency, this year’s upgrades for the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C were all about making small but significant improvements. A highlight was the installation of Group A style side mirrors and a crucial front-mounted oil-to-air cooler, addressing the infamous oil temperature spikes that plagued its engine. Opting for custom solutions, a unique oil cooling system was crafted using stitched-together oil-to-oil kits, standalone fittings, and Setrab coolers. Support bracket design employed a novel Cardboard Aided Design (CAD) approach to ensure a solid fit.
This thoughtful customization continued with suspension enhancements. The STI competition suspensions were replaced with a set of HKS HIPERMAX GT coilovers from a Subaru S204, offering a refined, road-oriented suspension system with significant improvements in ride quality.
Toyota Corolla Levin: Restorative Overhaul
The Toyota Corolla Levin Hatchback, known for its iconic heritage, began a comprehensive restoration journey. After stripping the vehicle to its essentials, areas needing attention were identified and carefully tackled. Where necessary, rust was excised, and fresh metalwork was welded to bring the Levin back to its former glory.
Opting for an authentic restoration, OEM panel replacements were sourced, with a particular focus on maintaining an OEM+ aesthetic. The search for replacement parts extended globally, with some significant components sourced from Japan and XTR Auto in the Czech Republic.
Concluding the Year’s Projects
As another fruitful year concludes, both the Subaru and the Toyota stand as testaments to dedication and a passion for automotive restoration and enhancement. For the Subaru, plans for the future include potential wheel and tire upgrades. The Toyota, now freshly painted in a brilliant Toyota 040 Super White II, awaits the meticulous reinstallation of components, mirroring our dedication to precision and authenticity.
Keep an eye on these project cars as they continue to evolve, embodying the spirit of classic car enthusiasm paired with modern functionality. Stay tuned for more updates, and follow us for the latest insights and transformations.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
