In 2019, I relocated to Australia with the hopes of pursuing higher education and a better career path. While my move was well-planned, one of the main reasons I chose to settle in the land down under was its vibrant JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) culture. Prior to my arrival, I was aware of several appealing aspects, including the availability of affordable JDM cars, the opportunity to drive right-hand drive vehicles, and the abundance of great roads to explore.
Initially, my transition proved to be quite challenging for several reasons. First, I had to part with my 7A-GE Corolla before moving, as I needed the money and wanted someone else to enjoy it rather than letting it sit in a garage and rust. Second, it was difficult to adjust to a new environment without the presence of my family and loved ones, uncertain of when or if I would see them again.
Once I began to settle in Adelaide, South Australia, about a month after my arrival, I started searching for an affordable JDM car that could serve as my daily driver without breaking the bank and also handle weekend drives on hilly tracks.
I eventually purchased a 2001 Lexus IS200. Despite its stock condition and high mileage of 285,000 kilometers, it had a straight body and showed potential with some care. Gradually, I began restoring it.
I bought the IS200 for $4000 AUD in March 2019. It came with a 6-speed manual transmission, a 1GFE 2L motor, a sunroof, and a good sound system. Although it wasn’t particularly fast, it was enjoyable to drive. Initially, I didn’t have plans to modify it for speed, but circumstances led me to make some changes.
Over its four-year lifespan with me, the car underwent significant changes. I replaced numerous stock components like the radiator, alternator, and engine rocker cover, along with some exterior upgrades. I installed coilovers, changed the wheels multiple times—including Evo 6 OZ Racing wheels, Enkei RP01s, and finally Bronze Buddy Club P1s—and added various lip kits.
Key specifications included:
- An elegant front lip and Altezza-style side skirts
- An Altezza-type front grille
- A Lexus IS200 luxury boot lip
- 8.5J +38 wheels at the front and 9.5J +32 at the rear, fitted with 17-inch Buddy Club P1 wheels
- 215/45 and 225/45 Potenza RE003 tires
- Altezza-type black-housed front lights
- Mishimoto weighted Shift Knob
- Light weight Flywheel and stage 1 Clutch kit
Pingback: BLOG – The Low Fast