Customer Car Flashback Series #3: Modified and Tuned Monsters

Author: Joe Mackay

Created On: Friday 18 October 24 Updated On: Tuesday 22 October 24

An image of heavily modified yellow ford focus to showcase the types of vehicle likely to be featured in the article

Welcome to another installment of our Flashback Series, where we revisit some of the standout vehicles that graced our customer modified car of the year competitions between 2016 and 2021. This edition is dedicated to the Modified and Tuned Monsters—those cars that have been pushed to their limits with jaw-dropping modifications and tuning. Each of these vehicles not only boasts impressive power and performance but also showcases the creativity and dedication of their owners. Dive in as we celebrate these extraordinary machines that have left a mark in our competitions.

#1: Jamie's Nissan 200sx

BHP: 300

Litre: 2.0

Engine: Inline-4 Turbo

Modifications:

Garrett GT28R turbo with braided lines
Apex turbo manifold
HKS adjustable actuator
800bhp stainless elbow
Japspeed Ultra Low downpipe
Blitz Nur Spec cat back system
Apex Gen 2 coil overs
6 front springs
Hardrace adjustable toe arms
Apex adjustable camber arms
Whiteline front ARB
Apex half cage
R33 GTR Brembo front callipers
Ferodo DS2500 brake pads
330mm grooved rotors
R33 GTR BMC (BM57)
Tegiwa BMC stopper
ABS removed

A little bit about the car: Jamie's Nissan 200sx is a true masterpiece of modification, with a list of upgrades so extensive it could fill an entire blog post! Running a Garrett GT28R turbo with braided lines, this car not only boasts impressive power but also sports a range of body modifications including rear over fenders, front wings, and skirts. The set of Work Meister S1 wheels adds a touch of elegance to this performance machine.

What Jamie loves most about the car: Jamie says, “The sheer thrill of driving this car never gets old. Each modification brings it closer to my vision of a perfect performance machine. From the power to the handling, every aspect of the 200sx has been tailored to offer an exhilarating experience on the road.”

Read more about Jamie's Nissan 200sx here.

#2: Alex's Toyota JZX100 Chaser

BHP: 330

Litre: 2.5

Engine: Inline-6 Turbo

Modifications:

Apexi Power FC with hand commander
Custom manifold with external wastegate (Screamer pipe)
Greddy front mount intercooler
Walbro 255lps fuel pump
Ogura Racing twin plate clutch
326 Power coilovers all round
Ikeya Formula front lower arm, front steering arm, front camber arm, and rear camber arms
Full BN Sports kit and BN Sports bonnet
Custom wide front wings with side repeaters removed
Rear arches widened with metal cutting, extension, and welding
Volk Rays Te37 wheels
Full 6-point, through-dash roll cage
2 red Recaro reclining front seats from Civic EK9
Nardi steering wheel
Blitz turbo timer
Full respray in Sepang Bronze

A little bit about the car:Alex's Toyota JZX100 Chaser is a testament to extensive modification and precision engineering. This vehicle features a plethora of upgrades, starting with an Apexi Power FC with a hand commander and a custom manifold with an external wastegate and screamer pipe. The Greddy front mount intercooler and Walbro 255lps fuel pump ensure the engine runs smoothly under pressure. The car’s aggressive stance is complemented by a full BN Sports body kit, wide custom front wings, and Volk Rays Te37 wheels.

What Alex loves most about the car:Alex shares, “I love the look of my car the most. The colour shines beautifully in the sun, and the aggressive body kit with the wide wings gives it a commanding presence. The wheels are the perfect finishing touch to the overall aesthetic.”

#3: Sean's Nissan Stagea RS4

An image of INSERT CAR HERE - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 300

Litre: 2.5

Engine: RB25DET

Modifications:

BC coilovers
Rota deep dish wheels (custom pink)
Recaro interior
Greddy, HKS, and Blitz components
Front-mount intercooler (FMIC)
Upgraded exhaust
Coils
Injectors

A little bit about the car:Sean's Nissan Stagea RS4 is a JDM import, brought over in 2017 in stock condition. Since then, it has undergone a significant transformation, including a full R34 GTR front-end and wide-body conversion.

What Sean loves most about the car:

"When you want an R34 GTR but need to carry the dogs around, nothing else does it better!"

#4: Aaron's Nissan 200sx (RB25 Converted)

An image of Aaron's Nissan - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 400hp (basemap) soon to be 550hp+

Litre: 2.5 Turbo

Engine: RB25DET (from R33 G-tst)

Modifications:

RB25DET conversion from R33 G-tst (105,000Km)
Cometic head gasket
1100cc Bosch top feed injectors
Japspeed radiator with twin electric fans
Nardi deep corn steering wheel
Driftworks quick-release boss
Bride fixed bucket seat (driver)
Bride reclining bucket seat (replica, passenger)
Takata harnesses
R33 G-tst gearbox (custom gearbox mount)
Custom propshaft (single-piece, serviceable)
Exedy stage 3 clutch
D2 coilovers
Extended lower control arms (LCA’s)
Refurbished steering rack with poly bushes
Japspeed tie rods & track rod ends
OBP reverse hydraulic handbrake (Wilwood cylinder)
Cosmis Xt206-r 18x11 et0 wheels all round
Roof spoiler
Apexi Power FC D-jetro MAP sensor
Greddy boost controller & boost gauge

A little bit about the car:Aaron’s Nissan 200sx has undergone a major transformation, boasting over 80 modifications. With a base map running at 400hp, this beast is soon to be pushing 550hp+.

What Aaron loves most about the car: With so many upgrades, Aaron’s 200sx is a true track and street monster, combining power and handling with unmistakable style.

#5: Chris' Toyota Supra

An image of Chris' Toyota Supra - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 662.5

Litre: Estimated 3.0 (based on typical Supra specs)

Engine: Fully rebuilt block

Modifications:

Precision 6266 single turbo
BC Racing coilovers
ASNU 1100cc injectors
264 cams
Fully rebuilt block
"Lots of shiny bits"

A little bit about the car: Chris' Toyota Supra is a high-performance gem with an impressive 662.5bhp. This extensively modified Supra boasts a Precision 6266 single turbo and a host of other enhancements that make it a standout vehicle. With a fully rebuilt block and numerous custom touches, it's a testament to Chris' commitment to perfection.

What Chris loves most about the car: "I love my car because it's how I met my future wife. It's very loud (the car, not my future wife) and is a head-turner. I've owned it for 8 years, and all of the bodywork and engine rebuild has been done by me since ownership."

Read more about Chris' car here, and check out our specialist Toyota Supra Insurance here!

#6: Mathew's Ford Focus RS MK2

An image of Mathew's Ford Focus RS - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 425

Litre: 2.5

Engine: 5-cylinder turbo

Modifications:

Revo 4+ remap
Mongoose exhaust
Induction kit
Upgraded pistons and rods

A little bit about the car: Mathew's Ford Focus RS Mk2 stands out with its impressive 425bhp, driven by a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder turbo engine. While the car has undergone numerous modifications, key upgrades include a Revo 4+ remap, a Mongoose exhaust system, and enhanced pistons and rods. These changes significantly boost performance while maintaining the vehicle's aggressive appeal.

What Mathew loves most about the car: "Every time I drive it, I'm reminded of the incredible work that's gone into making it what it is today. The sound of the exhaust and the increased power always put a smile on my face."

Read more about Mathew's Ford Focus here.

#7: Michelle's Nissan S14a

An image of Michelle's Nissan S14a - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 300

Litre: 2.0

Engine: SR20DET

Modifications:

Roll cage
Bucket seat
Harness
Japspeed intercooler
Japspeed exhaust
Exedy clutch
Vented bonnet
Driftworks CS2 suspension

A little bit about the car: Michelle’s Nissan S14a is meticulously equipped for drifting. Key modifications include a robust roll cage, a safety-focused bucket seat and harness, and a Japspeed intercooler and exhaust system to enhance performance. The Exedy clutch and Driftworks CS2 suspension complete the setup, ensuring both safety and agility on the track. Keep an eye out for Michelle and her S14a at future drifting Grand Prix events!

What Michelle loves most about the car: "I love the way the car handles and the thrill of drifting. It's been built with every detail in mind to make sure it's not just a car, but a true competitor on the track."

Read more about Michelle, a female drifting legend in her own right, on our blog here!

#8: Adam's Toyota GT86

An image of Adam's Toyota GT86 - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 320

Litre: 2.0

Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Litre Inline-Four

Modifications:

Stage 3 Billet Turbo Kit
Full V1 Rocket Bunny body kit (including side skirts, splitter, and carbon GT)
Work Meister M1 wheels

A little bit about the car: Originally equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre inline-four engine, this GT86 has been significantly upgraded. The introduction of a Stage 3 Billet Turbo Kit has transformed it into a high-performance powerhouse, boosting its output to 320bhp. The turbocharged engine now delivers enhanced power and torque, improving acceleration and overall driving dynamics. Complementing these performance upgrades is a full V1 Rocket Bunny body kit, which not only enhances aerodynamics but also adds a dramatic aesthetic flair. The car is finished with Work Meister M1 wheels, which perfectly accentuate its aggressive stance. It’s a blend of retro race appeal and modern performance.

What Adam loves most about the car: "The combination of turbo power and striking looks makes this GT86 a standout. It’s a thrill to drive and turn heads wherever it goes. The Rocket Bunny kit and Work Meister wheels make it not just a performance machine, but a real showstopper."

Check out our specialist Toyota GT86 insurance here!

#9: Oliver's Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 6, T400 GSR

An image of Oliver's Mitsubishi Lancer - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 450

Litre: 2.0

Engine: Turbocharged Inline-Four

Modifications:

ILSTEIN B16 with RalliArt top mounts
AP Racing 6-pot 330mm brake kit
Turbo Technics S209 turbocharger
Link G4X ECU with wideband
Tomei cams
Russ Fellows exhaust

A little bit about the car: The Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 6, T400 GSR, is a rally legend turned street beast. Under the hood, a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine has been enhanced to deliver approximately 450bhp and 430lbft of torque. The car’s performance is further bolstered by a Turbo Technics S209 turbocharger and a Tomei camshaft upgrade. Handling and braking are addressed with ILSTEIN B16 suspension, RalliArt top mounts, and an AP Racing 6-pot 330mm brake kit. The Link G4X ECU with wideband tuning ensures optimal performance and reliability. With Russ Fellows exhaust enhancing the auditory experience, this Evo 6 is a true homage to its rallying roots.

What Oliver loves most about the car: "I love the fact that the rallying heritage and homologation sculpt every aspect of this car. It’s a thrilling drive that pays respect to its motorsport lineage while offering incredible performance on the road."

#10: Lee's Honda Integra Type R (DC5)

An image of Lee's Honda Integra - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 220

Litre: 2.0

Engine: Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four

Modifications:

Toda exhaust
Mugen strut brace
Rota Torque wheels
Hybrid Racing billet short shifter
Uprated Clarion speakers
Yellowspeed coilovers
Yellow rocker cover
Carbon fibre spark plug cover

A little bit about the car: Lee's Honda Integra Type R (DC5) is a standout example of automotive excellence, even after 18 years. Maintaining it in immaculate condition, Lee has also enhanced its performance and aesthetics with a range of modifications. The car features a Toda exhaust system for improved airflow and a Mugen strut brace for added rigidity. Rota Torque wheels and Yellowspeed coilovers contribute to its agile handling. Inside, an upgraded Clarion sound system and a Hybrid Racing billet short shifter enhance the driving experience. The car’s unique look is completed with a yellow rocker cover and a carbon fibre spark plug cover, preserving its iconic style while boosting its performance.

What Lee loves most about the car: "I love the fact that the car doesn’t look its age despite being nearly 18 years old, and the ability to drive it like a regular commuter car yet it has performance and a split personality on tap."

Check out our specialist Honda Integra Insurance here!

#11: Ed's Nissan 200sx S14a

An image of Ed's Nissan 200x - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 404

Litre: 2.0

Engine: Turbocharged Inline-Four

Modifications:

Forged engine
Baffled sump
Poncams
Rocker arm stoppers
2871R turbo
740cc injectors
Front mount intercooler (FMIC)
Uprated fuel pump
Tubular manifold
Full custom exhaust
Lightened flywheel
Stage 4 clutch
Mishimoto radiator + expansion tank
Nistune ECU
AVC-R boost controller
Greddy multi DA gauge
HSD coilovers
Full adjustable arm kit
Full polybush kit
Big brake kit
Reclining bucket seats
JDM rear bumper
Kouki front bumper
Work XD9 wheels
Full underbody restoration

A little bit about the car: Ed's Nissan 200sx S14a is a prime example of a highly modified, meticulously maintained vehicle. It boasts a range of performance upgrades including a forged engine, a 2871R turbo, and 740cc injectors. The car's handling and ride quality are enhanced by HSD coilovers, a full adjustable arm kit, and a big brake kit. A custom exhaust system and lightened flywheel contribute to its impressive power output of 404bhp. The exterior modifications, such as the Kouki front bumper and JDM rear bumper, give it a distinct look, while the full underbody restoration ensures durability and performance.

What Ed loves most about the car: "The car simply turns heads - from the outside it’s a clean, OEM(ish) looking 200sx apart from the wheels and ride height. Then, you add a little power and the car transforms."

#12: Connor's Mazda Eunos MX5

An image of Mazda MX5 - one of the modified cars insured by Safely Insured featured in the Customer Car Flashback Blog.

BHP: 300

Litre: 1.6

Engine: Turbocharged Inline-Four

Modifications:

Turbocharged
Forged rods and pistons
Roll cage
Coilovers
Wide arches
Big rear wing (BGW)

A little bit about the car: Connor's Mazda Eunos MX5 stands out with its impressive 300bhp, turbocharged 1.6-litre engine. The car has been extensively modified for both performance and style, including forged rods and pistons, a roll cage, and wide arches to accommodate the aggressive stance. The coilovers ensure enhanced handling, while the big rear wing adds to the aerodynamic efficiency. The modifications have turned this classic roadster into a versatile track machine that excels right out of the box.

What Connor loves most about the car: "How versatile it is, and how good of a car it is around a track straight out of the box without any adjustments. And of course all of the sideways action."