iM Feature: Duncan Yu’s 1995 Honda Civic DX

With stance and wheel fitment being the biggest craze in the car scene right now, coming across cars built with performance being the main focus is pretty hard to come by these days. This is rightfully so, as cars with pretty impressive power can be bought from a car dealership leaving the owner with nothing left to modify except the suspension and wheels if he/she wishes to do so. No matter what people do to their own vehicles, modding them can turn into quite the addiction.

In Duncan Yu’s case with his 1995 Honda Civic DX, power and speed were the key elements spawning his car addiction. Originally purchased in 2003, Duncan worked with what the car already had and turbo charged the stock D15 motor. After a dyno and run at the track, the turbo D15 made 150hp at the wheels and ran a respectable 14.8 seconds at 96mph. Jump to two years later, Duncan swapped the turbo D15 and opted for a Turbo LS swap pulling off 12.7 seconds at 110mph, and 280hp at the wheels. With amazing power coming out his Civic, it’s no wonder he was dubbed the “STI killer” on the local forum, Beyond.ca.

In 2007, Duncan felt it was time to part ways with the car, and sold it with the stock GSR motor. The story does not end here however.

In 2010, Duncan found himself reunited with the “STI Killer” and decided to buy it back in the same condition it was in when he sold it. Forward to the present, Duncan blew the stock GSR motor and what came back to haunt him was the pursuit of speed and power that he initially craved for. With the assistance of his friend Jessy R., Duncan swapped the blown GSR motor for a turbo charged B18C1. With dyno tuning performed by Toma K., the built B18C1 motor put down 400hp at the wheels and even got to see some quarter mile action running a very impressive 12.2 seconds at 123mph.

Due to the recent loss of Race City in Calgary, Duncan has not been able to see what his Civic can pull off on the quarter mile as he recently put in a new clutch and is now sitting at a whopping 472hp at the wheels. That’s right, 472whp coming from a 1995 Honda Civic DX; no typos here.

With what is probably one of the most unassuming vehicles roaming the streets of Calgary, calling Duncan’s Honda Civic a “Sleeper” is definitely an understatement. In a current state where it seems like it’s all about wheels and fitment, Duncan breaks this mold and literally leaves everyone else in the dust with his boosted B18C1 Honda Civic build. Try and keep up.

Exterior
Mugen style front lip
Vision amber corners
EK side skirts

Interior
K’s Meter Works JDM SIR gauge cluster
Momo Competition steering wheel
NRG short hub/quick release
Custom mount Stewart Warner boost gauge
USDM ITR front seats
Redline Goods shift boot/armrest cover
Alpine CDA-117 deck
Alpine SPX-17REF speakers
Alpine PDX 150.4 amplifier
JL 10W3v3 subwoofer

Suspension
Tein S-Tech springs
KYB AGX shocks
ITR front/rear swaybar
Progress camber kit
Function 7 Lower Control Arms


Wheels.and.Brakes
Front: 15×7 Rota slipstreams
Mickey Thompson ET Street 205/50R15
Rear: 16×7 Rota slipstreams
Firenza ST-08 205/40/16
Integra front/rear brake conversion
DBA 4000 rotors
Stoptech street performance pads
Earl’s stainless brake lines

Engine
Golden Eagle sleeved 1.9L B18C1
CP 83mm pistons
Eagle LS rods
LS crankshaft
ACL Race bearings
Golden Eagle main studs
ARP head studs
Brian Crower stage 2 cams
Brian Crower springs/retainers
Skunk2 pro adjustable cam gears
Walbro 255 fuel pump
Injector dynamics 1000cc
Edelbrock fuel rail
Edelbrock Victor X intake manifold
RLD Fab exhaust manifold
Garrett GT3076R
Tial 38mm waste gate
Tial 50mm BOV
Precision intercooler
Revhard 3.5″ downpipe
Kteller 3″ exhaust
Magnaflow muffler
Revhard 2.5″/3″ intercooler piping
USDM ITR transmission
Clutchmasters FX400 clutch
Gator axles
B&R breather tank
Innovative mounts
Mugen oil cap
Koyo aluminum radiator
SPAL radiator fan
Innovate wideband
Hondata S300 with PWM boost control
Hondata 4 bar map sensor
Odyssey PC680 battery

iM Feature: James’ Honda S2000

We’ve seen plenty of crazy TE-37 equipped cars come out of Toronto care of Galen, and James’ 2007 Honda S2000 sporting wide body rear over fenders and custom widened front fenders is no exception. To balance out the wide body James also added a super aggressive Spoon front end and Voltex rear diffuser.

The race ready theme caries through the interior as well with a Bride bucket seat and Personal steering wheel. James has even added a small system, very cleanly I might add, for bumping tunes while cruising the streets.

Cleanliness remains a common theme amongst the S2000 builds that you’ve seen here on illmotion and James’s keeps that same level of styling with his S2000.

Check it out.

| OWNER: James Won
| VEHICLE: 2007 Honda S2000

| ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN:
Fujita Cold Air Intake
PLM header
T1R testpipe
HKS Hi-Power Single 75mm
Exedy OEM clutch kit /w F1 Racing 10.75lb flywheel

| SUSPENSION:
BC Racing Type BR Coilovers
Muteki Burning Blue Neon Lugnuts

| WHEELS:
TE37 SL 18×10 +30
TE37 Gloss Black 17×9 +28 and 17×9.5 +12 (Loaner wheels)

| AERO
ASM Overfenders
Flared Front OEM fenders
Spoon front bumper (with HIDs)
Voltex rear diffuser
JDM Clear Side markers
OEM style lip spoiler

| INTERIOR
Bride Vios III Gradation seat (driver side)
Buddy Club seat rails
Personal Neo Grinta Steering Wheel (with titanium bolts)
NSX-R horn button
NRG QuickRelease 2.0 + NRG Short Hub
J’s Racing titanium shift knob
Red stitched shift boot
Defi oil pressure gauge
Defi oil temperature gauge
Defi water temperature gauge
Defi control unit
Polk component speakers
Rockford Fosgate Punch Amp
Rockford Fosgate Punch Sub
Custom sub enclosure

iM Feature: Scott Hillis’s 2008 Honda Civic Si

These days, the world wide web plays a very influential role in the way a car is modified by their owners. With forums and such resources found online, one is bound to find some sort of inspiration for his or her’s project car. With this sharing of wonderful photography, advice and knowledge over the internet however, opinions can certainly play a part for all the wrong reasons; negativity and hate begin to step into the limelight.

So what does one do to break out of the vicious circle that happens on the internet? The answer is simple: Do your own research and just do what you think feels right. Do you and ignore the negative noise.

Doing exactly what was just mentioned, it’s no wonder that Scott Hillis’s boosted 2008 Honda Civic Si catches the attention of anyone who lays their eyes on it, whether it be on the track or simply parked on the street corner.

Looking to build his Si as a complete package with performance, function and an overall visual that kills, Scott looked to like J’s Racing, T1R, Greddy, Advan, and Spoon (to name a few) to be the working parts of his Honda Civic.

Looking at the exterior, what stands out on Scott’s Si from other 8th Gens out there is definitely the J’s Racing GT Wing, Type-R side skirts and J’s Racing front lip. If that wasn’t enough, Scott’s Si sits properly stanced on an aggressive set of 18×9 Advan RS wheels. A look behind the spokes of the Advans and one will find a Big Brake Kit from T1R whenever this vehicle needs to be brought to a sudden stop.

The interior stays subtle yet effective with a pair of T1R reclinable seats, a Nardi steering wheel, Mugen Pedals, and a JVC Head Unit.

When it comes to body reinforcement and suspension, Scott fully understands the movements of his vehicle and sentences these movements to prison with front and rear strut tower bars, front and rear lower arm bars, a floor bar, seat bars, and a monocoque bar; all courtesy of J’s Racing. With J’s Racing suspension goodies for days, the Tein Super Street Coilovers seem like they pretty much sit low and let the driver just enjoy the ride.

Just when it seems as though this Si seems complete and fully capable of conquering the track, Scott takes it a step further and enhances the Si’s already impressive, out of the factory spunk with a Greddy Turbo and a Hondata Flashpro tune. A T1R test pipe, T1R 70mm catback and J’s Racing Titainum FX 60R Exhaust give Scott’s Si a little more room to breathe when necessary.

By doing his own research and just doing what he felt was the right thing to do, Scott’s Boosted Si is definitely one that keeps anyone on the internet talking whether it be because of the car’s performance, function, or neck snapping looks.

Even if the comments of others on the internet were negative, none of it seemed to stop Scott from building what really is “the total package”…

…and it shouldn’t stop you from doing what you want to accomplish with your project or build either. Just do you!

Until next time lovers and friends!

|OWNER: SCOTT HILLIS
|VEHICLE: 2008 HONDA CIVIC SI COUPE

|ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN:

Hondata Flashpro
J’s Racing Titanium fx 60r Exhaust
T1R 70MM catback D.TIP
TSX Sprint booster
Spoon Valve cover with kevlar spark plug cover
Spoon Engine Torque Damper
P2R Throttle body spacer
P2R Intake manifold gasket
Greddy Turbo
AEM Meth/Water kit
4 Bar map
T1R test pipe
Password JDM Cooling plate

|SUSPENSION:

Tein Super Street Coilovers
J’s Racing Front and back lower arm bars
J’s Racing Front and back strut tower bars
J’s Racing Seat bars
J’s Racing Floor bar
J’s Racing monocoque bar

|WHEELS.&.BRAKES:

Advan RS 18×9
Rays light weight lugs
HFP Slotted rotors w/ painted calipers(Rear)
T1R Big Brake Kit

|AERO

J’s Racing Front Lip
J’s Racing GT Wing
JDM – Side markers
JDM – Rear tow hook
VIS- Hood (Techno R) and Trunk
Type R side skirts
J’s style rear diffuser

|INTERIOR:

Mugen Pedals
JDM Shift knob
Short shifter
Nardi classic steering wheel with quick release
T1R Reclined racing seats with Bride rails
JVC 7″ TV

iM Feature: Rhys Boulanger’s 1991 Toyota MR2

As a kid, you’re exposed to quite a few things that you dream about owning when you grow older. This could range from absolutely anything like a nice collection of Jordans, a fancy home with a swimming pool, some of you may have even dreamt about owning your own amusement park. As the possiblities are endless, probably one of the more common things that we’ve all dreamed about (child or adult) is what car we would like to own when we grow up.

With a “dream big” mentality and as cliche as this might sound, anything we set our minds to can definitely be accomplished. Such a statement is true with time and patience. Some also say that ‘Good things come to those who wait’. Realistically we can all agree that good things come to those who work their asses off and never give up.

A perfect example of “Good things come to those who work their asses off and never give up” is Revwerks captain Rhys Boulanger and his 1991 Toyota MR2.

At an early age of 16, Rhys started work on his first project car, a right hand drive Toyota MR2 that he picked up from a local shop here in Calgary, JDM Source. While other peers at the age of 16 were dreaming about high end exotics, Rhys kept a lower profile and sought after Toyota’s Midship Runner. After a year or so of driving his right hand drive MR2 however, Rhys came to the realization that what he really wanted was a left hand drive project. While still in love with the MR2, Rhys eventually found himself a LHD MR2 shell and his story began.

As mentioned before in other articles here on illmotion, through trial and error can one’s time and patience be really tested; it comes with the territory of having a project car. To make a long story short, Rhys’ MR2 project wasn’t an overnight success and went through a lot of trial and error to get to how it you see it today.

“Trial and Error” is stressed here due to the fact that this MR2 had a few incidents at the track involving things like engine bay fires and blown turbos. None of this of course, stopping Rhys from continuning to do work on this car.

Built with performance in mind, the 2nd Generation 3SGTE that keeps this MR2 going has been rebuilt twice and continues to be the beating heart of this vehicle. With performance goodness from HKS (Intake & Exhaust cams), Greddy (Intercooler, Catch Can), Blitz (850 injectors, Nur-Spec Exhaust) and much more, it’s no wonder that Rhys took his MR2 to the track with every available opportunity that he got.

A quick glance at the interior of this MR2 and it’s no surprise that comfort plays a role as a pair of Recaro SPG Profis and Schroth 3″ 6 point harnesses keep both driver and passenger bolted to their seats; no heads rolling here.

Having gone through about 5 sets of wheels in it’s lifetime, Rhys’s MR2 currently sits on an aggressive set of Advan RG-Ds wrapped in Dunlop Direzza Starspec tires. The stopping power of this beast is found as a Wilwood Big Brake Kit and Carbon Brake Pads bring this MR2 to a precise halt.

The exterior appearance of Rhys’ MR2 keeps heads turning with its low stance thanks to Buddy Club Racing Spec coilovers and JDM pieces such as the 94 JDM MR2 rear taillight conversion, Kei Office duckbill spoiler, Greddy sideskirts, and Shine Auto Carbon add-ons.

Throughout Rhys’s trials and tribulations with his MR2, his hard work definitely shows in all aspects of the vehicle, inside and out. Although having parted ways with his MR2 not too long ago, it’s only a matter of time until we see what Rhys has up his sleeve for his next “dream project”.

It’s because of Rhys’s patience and determination, that good things do in fact come to those who work their asses off and never give up; and this MR2 proves it.

|OWNER: Rhys Boulanger
|VEHICLE: 1991 Toyota MR2

|ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN:
Gen 2 3sgte
AEM EMS Series 1 ECU (Tuned by Tomak)
AEM Launch Control
TVIS gutted
Ford 70mm Mustang TB
Wolfkatz Fuel Rail
Blitz 850 injectors
Walboro Fuel pump
HKS 264 Intake and Exhaust Cam
Shimless bucket conversion
CP 9:1 pistons
Eagle Rods
Fidenza Cam timing Gears
Ferreia Stainless Steel Valves
HKS Valve Springs
Authentic Greddy Intercooler kit w/ Spal Fan
Berk Technology Cold pipe
Synapse BOV
Greddy Catch Can
Berk vacuum line kit
Borg Warner S256 Extended tip Turbo
EMS powered 3″ Downpipe
Tial 38mm VBand Wastegate
Border Racing Dual cone Induction Box
Kirkosaurus engine mount insert
ChrisK Intake Manifold, With Individual Velocity stacks
ARC 1.3 Bar Rad Cap
ARC Oilcap
Blitz Nurspec 3″ Exhaust
Gen 2 TRD LSD tranny
ACT Stage 3 Clutch
Lubromoly Tranny Fluid
Brass Shifter Bushings
B&M Short Shifter

|SUSPENSION:
Buddyclub Racing Spec Coilovers
Tein Adjustable Camber plates / Pillow ball mounts
TRD Bushings all around
High and Tight adjustable Endlinks
TRD Front and Rear swaybars
TRD Fornt and Rear Strutbars

|WHEELS & BRAKES:
Advan Racing RG-D wheels 17×9.5 (Rear) 17×8 (Front)
Project Kics R40 Locking lugnuts
Dunlop Direzza Starspec 245/40/17 Rear, 205/40/17 Front
Wilwood Big Brake kit
Wilwood UHP Kevlar/Carbon Pads
Wilwood SS brake lines
Jeggs Vacuum canister
94+ JDM Rear Brake Calipers

|AERO & EXTERIOR
Greddy Sideskirts
Shine Auto Carbon Rear Add-ons
MadPSI Type B Vented 100% Carbon Hood
Aerocatch Hood pins
VIS Carbon Trunk
Revwerks Carbon Radiator Cooling plate
JDM 1996 Clear front Corners
Rev 6 Projector Headlights
1994 Taillight conversion with JDM corners
APR Custom retrofitted GT-Spec Mirrors
Daie Motors Dry Carbon Front lip and Diffuser
XVRacing Carbon Engine LID
Kei Office Duckbill spoiler
Custom Carbon Inspection Panels
Pheonix power CF Shroud and SPal engine fans

|INTERIOR:
Recaro SPG Profi seats
Schroth 3″ 6 Point Harnesses
Bride LowMax seat Rails
ARC Titanium Shift knob
B&M short shifter
Redline suede w/ red stitching shift boot
Nardi Deep corn 350mm Hub
Works Bell Hub
Works Bell Quick Release
TRD Floormats
Custom Carbon Steering Column
Alpine M505 headunit
Ems powered MR2 sub box
MTX 300watt AM
Alpine Type E Sub
AEM Tru-Boost
AEM EGT Gauge
AEM Wideband UEGO
Cusco/Safety 21 four point Roll cage Custom Coated to match wheels

For more photos, check out the set HERE

iM Feature: Derrek Poyntz’s 1994 Acura Integra RS

Without a doubt, any single person who has ever had a project car/build knows about the many phases a project can go through. Some will have classic elements that are just timeless, cannot be touched and stay with the car until the wheels fall off, while others are pieces that were questionable from the very start, and are now considered horrible trends that should never ever go back on a car.

Despite the trends however, we can all agree that every single solid, virtually timeless item taken from a car owner’s phase is what makes any project or build so great. Similar to life itself, we each go through our own little phases, learn through our successes and failures, and fair much better and wiser with time. Let that sink in for a bit, and you’ll realize the same thing happens to a project car.

A quick glance at Derrek Poyntz’s Integra, and one will notice a simple, subtle and well built Honda. This of course, did not happen overnight.

Derrek, like many of those with a long time project car/build, went through tons of phases to get his Integra how you see it today. “All Show”, “Low and Slow”, “Street Racer”, “Time Attack” “JDM”, “Stretch and Poke”, etc. are just a few of the phases that this project has seen. Take the best of these phases over the course of 12 years, and you’re simply left with “Derrek Poyntz’s Integra”.

From the “Street Racer” phase, you can consider this Integra’s Turbocharged B18C engine paired with a JDM ITR Tranny. From the “Time Attack” phase, everything and anything to do with suspension and balance are put into perspective with goodies like Tokico Illumina shocks combined with H&R Race Springs, an ASR Sub frame brace, and Spoon Front And Rear strut braces just to name a few.

Going into the “Stretch and Poke” phase, simply put, the 16″ Miro wheels say it all. Derrek takes it a step further providing no information on any offsets and width on them. Top secret stuff.

Evidence from the “All Show” phase can be found with clean modifications like Shaved Door Handles, Badges, Bumpers, Door Moldings and the ever creative hand painted Spoon front lip and valve cover, representing Calgary to the fullest.

Derrek’s full attention to detail and cleanliness can be found in the “JDM” Phase. Boasting a lot of pieces from the JDM Honda Integra Type-R such as the side skirts, door panels complete with switches, rear bench, power folding mirrors, fog lights, cluster, and even down to the floor mats; all the pieces a JDM fiend can think of can be found in this Integra.

With bits and pieces taken from each aspect of this Integra’s “life” to make it what it is today, it’s safe to say that it is most definitely amazing what can happen over time. Through out all the good (and bad) phases Derrek went through with his build, he’s got a project car that every single one of us can really appreciate.

Whether it be in real life or through a project/build, we should never be afraid to learn from our mistakes, and grow from our successes. The outcome is always rewarding. Derrek’s reward of course, is having built one of the most unique Integras that we’ve seen on illmotion.

Just have a look for yourself…

|OWNER: Derrek Poyntz
|VEHICLE: 1994 Acura Integra RS

|ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN:

B18C
SPA turbo
Blox log style turbo manifold
RC 440 injectors
HKS blow off
Autopower intercooler with custom piping
Turbo smart ultra gate 38 waste gate
Hondata S300
Moroso oil pan
Fluidine aluminum rad
Blitz 9.00mm ignition wires
JDM ITR transmission
Exedy clutch
Fujitsubo power getter exhaust
Shaved engine bay with half tuck
Hand painted valve cover and brake booster

|SUSPENSION:

Tokico illumina shocks
H&R race springs
Blox lower control arms
ASR subframe brace
Skunk 2 front and rear camber kit
JDM ITR sway bars
Spoon front and rear strut braces

|WHEELS.AND.BRAKES:

ARP extended wheel studs
T1R lug nuts
Earls steel braided brake lines
Hawk pads
Power slot rotors
JDM ITR brake master cylinder
16″ Miro Wheels
195/45R16 Federal Tires

|EXTERIOR

Honda Grand prix white with Berlina black roof
Shaved Badges
Shaved Bumpers
Shaved Door mouldings
Shaved Antenna
Hand painted carbon fiber Spoon lip
VIS carbon fiber hood and trunk lid
JDM ITR optional side skirts
JDM tail lights
JDM power folding mirrors
JDM fog lights
Honda Access window visors
DC2 rear window visor
Password JDM tow hook
Rear wiper delete
8000k prolumin HID’s
Tinted Euro light bumper lights

|INTERIOR:

Spoon adjustable bucket seats
Takata seat belt
Spoon shift knob
ITR shift boot
Momo Tuner steering wheel
NRG slim hub with NRG quick release
JDM ITR cluster
JDM ITR climate control
JDM ITR Ashtray
JDM ITR Rear seats
JDM ITR Door panels with switches
JDM ITR Floor mats
JDM ITR Arm rest
JDM ITR Clock
Carbon fiber privacy cover
Wink 5 panel road race mirror
pioneer double din CD/DVD
Alpine Type R speakers

More photos can be found on our Flickr page HERE

iM Feature: Hoang Nguyen’s 2000 Honda Civic SiR

The Honda Civic.

Without a doubt one of the most popular cars modified by car enthusiasts all over the world. What probably makes the Civic so popular is it’s appeal to the youth and it’s functionality, but more importantly it’s reliability.

As the Civic gained more and more popularity over the years, the more and more the aftermarket paid attention. Long story short, the Civic had so much aftermarket support that it started getting some negative attention with some of the parts that were applied by their owners.

Non-functional parts became the cancer for many modified Civics out there. It became such a ridiculous phase that some vehicles looked like they were not made from this planet and some even looked like they were ready to blast off into the atmosphere.

Forward to the present, and yes such Civics still exist. But thanks to an era where cleanliness matters, one Civic rises above all the ridicule and comes out getting the last laugh…

Enter Hoang Nguyen’s 2000 Honda Civic SiR.

Inside and out, Hoang’s SiR displays nothing but cleanliness and functionality. With Carbon Fiber flowing throughout the exterior of the car, authentic Mugen MF10s giving the car an aggressive stance, and a J’s Racing carbon wing, the rest of this SiR just has you wanting more.

Ask and you shall receive as under the hood, Hoang’s Civic ditches the stock SiR engine and is currently rocking a K20Z motor. Attention to detail follows as Mugen bolts and Baller Bolts are showcased throughout the engine bay.

Continuing on with attention to detail, Hoang’s SiR keeps it going “HAM” with suspension upgrades that make any other Civic feel completely irrelevant. Rocking Tein Flex coilovers with EDFC and chassis bars for days, this is one SIR that is strictly business when it comes to handling and balance.

The interior of Hoang’s Civic is just as crazy as the rest of the car with a pair of Bride Vios seats, and EK9 Type-R interior pieces that are in the most immaculate condition. The In Car Electronics and Audio are enough to make you wanna go on a permanent road trip.

With such a pristine Civic jam packed with functional mods and upgrades, we gotta give it up to people like Hoang who know exactly what this scene is all about.

Through all the phases and generations of the Civic, Hoang takes the best of every era and his SiR Coupe showcases that. In an era where functionality and cleanliness is everything nowadays, Hoang’s SiR steps up to the plate, and raises the bar for us all.

|OWNER:Hoang Nguyen
|CAR: 2000 Honda Civic SiR

|ENGINE
06 K20Z
Hasport engine mounts
Js racing valve cover
Js racing oil catch can
Js racing oil cap
J’s racing throttle body
J’s racing baffled oil pan
Tabata radiator
Tabata radiator cap
Exedy hyper single clutch/flywheel
Quaf LSD
DC race header
T1R 63mm cat back
H-Racing Cold air intake
RBC Intake manifold
Hondata K-pro
AEM fuel rail
AEM fuel pressure regulator
Tein hood dampers
Carbing cooling plate
Spoon carbon spark plug cover
Spoon radiator stays
Mugen bolts
Baller bolts titanium bolts

|SUSPENSION.AND.WHEELS
Tein Flex coilovers with EDFC
Js racing front strut bar
Spoon rear strut bar
Spoon front tie bar
Spoon rear tie bar
Alex c-pillar bar
H-Racing Rear truck bars
Function 7 LCA
DC2 front sub frame
DC2-R front sway bar
DC2-R rear sway bar
EK9 type R 5 lug conversion
Mugen MF10 16×7 42
Toyo T1R 205/45/16
T1R titanium lug nuts

|BRAKES
Spoon twin block calipers
Brigs brake pads
Brembo rotors
Goodridge stainless steal lienes

|EXTERIOR
VIS carbon hood
VIS carbon truck
VIS carbon lip
VIS carbon splitters
VIS carbon canards
Spoon carbon mirrors
J’s Racing carbon GT wing
J’s Racing front and rear tow hook
Spoon wiper blades
OEM optional rear lip
OEM optional fog lights
Ek9 type R headlights
EK9 type R grill
JDM EK9 window visor
6000K HID

|INTERIOR
Bride vios 3 bucket
Bride brix 2 recliner
Bride rails
Bride fabric door panels
Bride fabric rear seat
Takata harness
Takata shoulder pads
EK9 type R cluster
EK9 type R console
EK9 type R boot
EK9 type R red carpet
Ek9 type R floor mats
Momo tuner steering wheel
Momo steering hub
T1R quick release
Spoon titanium shift knob

|I.C.E
Clarion double din DVD player
Alpine RCA wires
Alpine V12 F550 4ch amp
Alpine V12 MR501 mono amp
Alpine 12inch type R sub
Alpine 7 inch monitor (in trunk)
Alpine type R speakers
Tsunami capacitor

iM Feature: Terence Wah’s Honda S2000

“Money Pit”

A term that is eerily familiar to those among us with car projects/builds that are either just beginning or have been going on for quite some time, only to see the light of day during the spring/summer season. Although these “Money Pits” only live to see two seasons during the year, it’s best to believe that the time spent on the “Money Pit” whether it be at the track, cruising, or a trip to the local convenience store, is worth every penny.

It isn’t all joy and happiness, however. Like any other hobby or pastime, accidents can certainly happen, no matter how much one can try to avoid them. What goes through the mind of an owner at the time of an accident though? Does one give up entirely on the project? OR (to quote a Daft Punk song) does one make it harder, better, faster, and stronger?

Some of you may remember Terence Wah’s S2000 that we featured here on illmotion in our debut year, for those who do not, Terence’s S2K was built solely for driving pleasure on the track.

Since this S2000’s last feature, Terence changed wheels and is now rocking a new set of Volk RE30s with a Magnesium Blue finish. For better braking performance, Terence upgraded to Spoon stainless steel brake lines, slotted rotors and Spoon 4-Pot monoblock calipers on the front. Suspension and Chassis seem to play an important role on this S2000 as it performs with HKS Hipermax Sport III coilovers, a Spoon front X-Brace and a Spoon Rear Cross Beam Bar. For enhanced breathability on the track, this S2000 roars with a full Spoon N1 Exhaust System.

Without a doubt, every single modification to Terence’s S2000 had to serve a purpose on the track, and that it did.

One day (out of numerous occasions) at the track however, Terence had a minor incident that led to his car going off course and off the track. Suffering a few minor damages to his S2000, the only question that remained was, ‘What was Terence going to do?’.

Long story short, Terence did not see this as a set back and went in the route of the previously mentioned Daft Punk reference, and kept his “Money Pit” going harder, better, faster, stronger.

For the rebirth this S2000’s Aero and Appearance, it now sits sporting brand new 3-Stage Pearl Yellow paint, an AP1 rear bumper, Shine ASM Front Fenders, some carbon goodies from J’s Racing (Hood, GT Wing), and a CF Trunk.

With a newly refreshed exterior, CF aero pieces and a minor incident at the track taken as a learning experience, we commend people like Terence and the commitment he has for his “Money Pit”. With patience and time dedicated to his track toy, the end result of his “Money Pit” still proves to be worth it.

|OWNER: Terence Wah
|VEHICLE: Honda S2000

|SUSPENSION/HANDLING
Bridgestone Potenza RE11 – F: 255/40/17 R:255/40/17 (Track)
HKS Hipermax Sport III Coilovers
RAYS Black Short Lug Nuts (Anodized)
Volk RE30 (Mag Blue): 17×9 +54 x4
Volk Mag Blue Centercaps

|CHASSIS
Spoon Front X-Brace
Spoon Rear Cross Beam Bar

|BRAKING
Hawk HP+ Brake Pads – Front and Rear
PowerSlot Slotted Rotor – Front and Rear
Spoon 4-Pot Monoblock Front Calipers
Spoon SS Brake Lines

|EXHAUST & INTAKE
Spoon N1 Dual Full Exhaust System

|AERO/EXTERIOR
AP1 Rear Bumper
APR Front Air Dam Lip
Seibon CF Trunk
J’s Racing (Voltex) Type-1 GT Wing
J’s Racing Type-V CFRP Front Hood
Pearl Yellow Tri-Stage Paint
Shine ASM Front Fenders w/ CF Insert and Bumper Extensions

|INTERIOR & NON-PERFORMANCE ELECTRONICS
Bride Vios III Racing Seat – driver
Compustar Alarm System
Pioneer Deck – USB + iPOD Integration
T1R Suede Shift Boot
Spoon Reclinable Seat – passenger
T1R Ti Shiftknob

For more pics visit the gallery HERE

iM Feature: Jason’s "TRAKRAT" BMW M3

As some of you may have noticed, a recurring debate of “doing it right” versus “doing it wrong” has been a very heated topic amongst car enthusiasts as of late, especially on the internet. These days, it seems as though the influence of peers on forums, blogs and various social media outlets have affected the way cars are modified by their owners. Such an impact has brought both positive and negative aspects to this present day automotive lifestyle.

There are however a few out there who break this mold and do something based entirely on their own discretion, without the influence of peers on the web. A perfect example of this select few is Jason Close, and his Supercharged BMW M3. Although Jason’s M3 is posted online, it doesn’t take away from the fact that it remained his build, as his peers took a seat and enjoyed the show.

Jason, like many of us in the beginning, started off with basic mods like an exhaust (with cat deletes), lowering springs and a new set of rollers for the summer. What differs Jason from other BMW M owners is he spent a lot of his time on the track during the summer, gaining a better feel for the car and better knowledge of what needed to be modified to perform better on the road course.

Jason’s biggest goal for his E90 was without a doubt to get the car going faster on the track. Operation complete with a Supercharger system from ESS Tuning. Along with the intercooled supercharger install, Jason also had a few more goodies underway for his “TRAKRAT”. Performance Friction PFC-01 Race Pads were added to bring the beast to a sudden halt if need be. The TRAKRAT’s suspension was also upgraded to KW Clubsport Coilovers and his wheels and tires were upgraded to Diamond Black BBS LM-Rs wrapped in Yokohama Advan AD08 tires, giving the TRAKRAT some “form” with that “function”.

Because the BMW M3 is notorious for it’s weight, Jason decided it was time to put his E90 on an Aero diet, with a legit Carbon roof and Carbon CSL style trunk via Vorsteiner. In addition, Jason updated the taillights courtesy of LCI. If the Aero additions and the new taillights weren’t enough to aesthetically change the appearance of his TRAKRAT, his M3 also underwent a refreshed exterior paint job.

With a few minor tweaks here and there, this is how the BMW M3 TRAKRAT currently sits. And with that, it’s safe to say that this was all done without the influence of others on the internet, but more so by the influence of Jason himself, and the patience he had to get this M3 to perform and look how you see it today.

In a current state where the automotive society is on one side of the fence or the other, why not break that barrier and do something based entirely on your own decisions? …Are one’s opinions on the internet really going to make or break your plans? What are you waiting for? Release your inner “TRAKRAT”.

Extra pics can be found HERE

| OWNER: Jason Close
| VEHICLE: 2008 E90 M3

| ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN:
ESS VT2-650 Intercooled SuperCharger Kit
ESS Dircect Flash Handheld Programmer
Custom Header back exhaust

| SUSPENSION:
KW Clubsport Coilovers

| WHEELS:
19×9.5 et20 AND 19X10et20 BBS LM-R in Diamond Black
Yokohama Advan AD08 275/30/19 and 295/30/19
Peformance Friction PFC-01 Race Pads
Stoptech Street Pads
Stoptech Brakelines

| AERO
Vorsteiner Carbon Roof Skin and roof frame (one of 2 made)
Vorsteiner Double Sided Carbon Trunk
LCI Tail Light Upgrade

iM Feature: Steve Plewes’ Numbskull Chopper

|OWNER: Steve Plewes
|VEHICLE: Custom Numbskull Chopper

About a week ago, we received an email from Steve Plewe wondering if we’d be interested in doing a feature on his chopper. First thought that came to my mind was “Of course!” although it may not be a a R35 GTR, Ducatti, or RWB Porsche – it is definitely different and we love nothing more than something a project that is completely unique.

Steve went on to say that it’s never been done before, gave the details of his bike and that it has not been exposed to public. At all. A couple things came to mind after reading this though
1 – What HASN’T been done that this guy has managed to accomplish?
2 – OK so it hasn’t been shown since last year, what could possibly be different this year?
and 3 – I hope he isn’t just pulling our legs.

Well shit, was I ever wrong. The attached pictures he let us see blew my socks off. I hit myself for doubting Steve so I immediately emailed Steve back and said “Let’s do this ASAP”. Lo and behold, I met Steve today and holy Chuck Norris was this thing wicked. Let’s get started…

With the restriction of the road conditions and weather, Steve was kind enough to even let me shoot the bike. The bike had been in the shop for almost a year and just recently got dropped off at his house and parked until I got there. He had never took it out before that, so it was a real pleasure to be there for the first time.

Performance Machine 6 piston brake

At first, I thought nothing of it but a simple detail. However, after delving into more details about the bike, this is a chrome crown gas cap home to a one-off gas tank holding 3.5 gallons of fuel. This isn’t a bike just for show, Steve plans on riding this thing hard.

The power plant that Numbskull holds is an Ultima 113 cubic inch motor putting out a crazy 120 hp and 120 lbs of torque. Steve plans on doing a dyno run once Spring time rolls around. The Sinful custom exhaust is hand made with two-tone materials. Black powder coated from the heads with a chrome heatshield and chrome tips to finish off the bling factor. An apocalypse air cleaner was made to accent the exhaust and accentuate the bikes overall “sinister” theme. There is a 2″ BDL primary that distributes the power to the rear while not over-crowding the left bank of the frame.

The beautiful custom airbrushed paint comes from House of Kolor and has a Pagan gold base and gold flake mixed into vibrant Tangelo orange to obtain the brightest sparkling yellows under the sun and the richest deep orange hues in the shade.

When Steve went to bring the bike out, I witnessed the air suspension in action which is just as cool as seeing it on a car. Steve’s air suspension, however consists of the frame housing all the supplied air to raise and lower the frame with the push of a button on the handles, ultimately getting rid of a kickstand.

Lowered

Raised

The rims are made by Pickard USA, fitting 21×3.25″ in the front and a massive 300mm 18×10.5″ in the rear. The custom sheet metal work has been handmade to ensure elongated continuous flow throughout the frame.

Coles notes:
Frame: 8 Ball Manufacturing
Builders: Koolkustomz (Union City, Michigan), Precision Frameworx (Calgary, AB)
Wheels: Metzler
Rims: Pickard USA, 300mm rear, 21″ front
Motor: Ultima 113 cubic inch (1845cc)
Paint: house of Colors
Painter: MOB Airbrush (Nobleford, AB)
Exhaust: Frankie Serrano Designs (FSD)
Aircleaner: stainless Steel Creations
Primary: BDL
Speedo: Motogadget
Front Brake: Performance Machine 6 piston
Rear Brake: Hubless 360

Again, huge thanks to Steve for bringing a custom project like this forward, even before exposing it to an even bigger scene. We are super glad to be able to have it on illmotion, and as always, it shows that with the dedication, passion and of course, money, you can do amazing things. Steve is the perfect example.

iM Feature: Gangster D’s Honda S2000

If you are a frequent reader here on illmotion, you’ve probably noticed that there is a pretty popular platform amongst the numerous vehicles that have been featured or highlighted since we’ve started. If you guessed the Honda S2000, give yourself a round of applause.

What is it though that makes the Honda S2000 so popular to modify?

A look into the S2000’s history and you will find out that this RWD Convertible Sports Coupe introduced by Honda was received well by critics and drivers alike since it’s induction to the automotive industry in late 1999-early 2000.

The S2000 was a favorite amongst critics because of it’s high engine output and high redline(courtesy of its F20 inline 4 engine), well balanced suspension and handling, and it’s ultra smooth gearbox. With such an awesome reception from owners and car enthusiasts all over the world, it’s no wonder the Honda S2000 is a fan favorite.

What makes the S2000 an obvious contender for upgrading and tuning however, is it’s virtually unlimited array of aftermarket parts that are available for it from top notch performance manufacturers like Spoon Sports, Type-One Racing, Mugen, T1-R, J’s Racing, Phase, ASM-the list can literally go on forever.

With such an excellent selection of manufacturers to choose from, “Gangster D” knew right from the get go what his goals were to set the tone on how his idea of a tastefully modified “Street/Track” S2000 should look and perform.

Standing out from other S2000s in the game is Gangster D’s fully authentic Spoon Sports Wide Body Kit and Shine carbon side diffusers. Gangster D’s definitely putting in Work with a nice set of white Emotion XT-7s playing the field for this S2000’s “shoe game”.

If that wasn’t enough for an exterior introduction, Gangster D keeps it going with suspension goodness for days. Rocking front and rear Sway Bars, a Tower Bar and an X-Brace from Spoon Sports and many more suspension mods, there is no doubting this S2000s ability to stay planted to the concrete.

A look inside of Gangster D’s S2000 and you will find a few interior OEM pieces from the AP2, as well as Spoon Sports seats for both the driver and passenger. Comfort is key here as Takata Harnesses keep both occupants strapped to their seats.

For engine breathability, this is one S2000 that goes unnoticed when it’s Type One 70R Sparrow Exhaust is heard ripping it up at the track, or tamely galavanting the city streets, minding it’s own business.

As you go into further detail with Gangster D’s S2000, you will see there is a lot more to it than what has been mentioned (have a look the spec list and you will see). With such an amazing list of parts on this beast, Gangster D’s S2000 is living proof of how an S2000 can look, handle, and perform at the track, or even just cruise on the daily.

With what seems like an unlimited list of parts that are available to S2000 owners, the possibilities of building a one-off S2000 are endless. So if you’re in the market for a new tuning platform, the S2000 could be just what you are looking for, and look no further than Gangster D’s S2000 for some inspiration…

|OWNER: Gangster D
|VEHICLE: Honda S2000

//EXTERIOR
Full Authentic Spoon Sports Wide Body kit
-Spoon Sports S-Tai Front Bumper
-Spoon Sports S-Tai Bonnet
-Spoon Sports Front Wide Fenders
-Spoon Sports Rear Wide Fender Flares
-Spoon Sports S-Tai Rear Bumper
-Spoon Sports Carbon Rear Diffuser
-Spoon Sports 3D GT Wing
-Spoon Sports Dry Carbon Coupe
-Spoon Sports Hydro Blue Wide Mirror
-Spoon Sports Short Antenna
-Shine Side Carbon Diffuser
1320 Performance Dry Carbon Front Splitter
Honda OEM AP2 headlight
Honda OEM AP2 Taillight

//INTERIOR
Safely 21 7 Point Roll Cage
Spoon Sports Carbon Kevlar Bucket Seat
Mugen Driver Seat Rail
Spoon Sports Sport Seat
Bride FO Passenger Side Seat Rail
Takata 4-Point Seat Belt Harness
Takata Shoulder Pad
Zoom Engineering Carbon Kevlar Rear Mirror
Isotta Nivola D Steering Wheel
Prodrive Horn Button
Honda OEM AP2 CR Shift knob
Honda OEM AP2 Door Panel
Honda OEM AP2 Center console
Honda OEM AP2 Roll Hoop with Speaker (06+)
Honda OEM AP2 Cluster Bezel

//SUSPENSION.AND.BRAKES
Spoon Sports Strut Tower Bar
Spoon Sports X-Brace
Spoon Sports Brake Calipers
Spoon Sports Brake Hose Set
Spoon Sports Engine Torque Damper Kit
Tein Master Circuit RA Coilovers
Alex Motorsport oversize Front and rear Sway Bar
Type One Racing Front Anti-Bumpsteer Kit
Type One Racing Rear Anti-BumpSteer Kit V2.0
Type One Racing Half Shaft Spacer
Type One Racing Tow Hook

//WHEELS.AND.HARDWARE
Work XT7 17x9JJ +38 Offset – all around
Project Mu Racing Floating Wheel Nuts

//ENGINE
Samco Intake Hose
Spoon Sports Air Cleaner
Spoon Sports Engine Fresh Air Duct (For S-Tai Bumper)
Spoon Sports Oil Cap
Spoon Sports Carbon Kevlar Plug Cover
Type One Racing Response Header
Type One Racing 70R Racing Convertor
Type One Racing 70R Sparrow Exhaust
Spoon Sports Radiator Stay
Spoon Sports Radiator Hose Set
Spoon Sports Thermo Switch
Spoon Sports Reservoir Tank Cover
Spoon Sports Magnetic Drain Bolt Set
J’s Racing Magnetic Oil Differential Bolt
Phase N1 Dual Radiator
Phase Radiator Cap