What or who got you into Cars?
Initial D followed by the Fast and Furious franchise.
Why this Car?
V8, Mid-Engine, AWD. Car had such an amazing value given the price point these days.
Why did you build this Car?
I’m always craving more driver engagement and this is is. why I chose mods that focused on the car’s drivability. What does it feel like owning and driving this car? I feel blessed having the chance to own and drive this car. R8’s are actually rare cars (~6500 Gen 1 R8’s imported to US overall) and I’m very happy I get to experience driving and owning one.
What do you think makes it unique?
Gen 1 R8’s have a timeless design that will never go out of style. The distinct side blades along with its curved silhouette screams sophistication and luxury, but at the same time houses a latent raw power unleashed past 5,000 RPM. This dual nature is what makes the Gen 1 R8 such a unique car even to today’s modern supercar standards.
Modifications list
Go Mods:
- Kline Inconel 625 Exhaust
- Ohlins TTX Coilovers lowered additional 10 mm
- VF Engineering Transmission Tune for crisper shifts Show Mods:
- RS-style front grill
- OEM wheels powder coated to Kingsport
- Grey Painted white brake calipers
Who did the work?
Majority myself except for the wheels and brake caliper paint, which was done by Baid Polish and SSR Autobody respectively.
Future Plans?
Converting the car to a full manual stick-shift car to enhance driver engagement, giving a nod to that old school driving experience.
What has the car scene brought you?
New appreciation for cars in general while making new friends along the way. I would never have met so many car enthusiasts who became friends if it wasn’t for the R8.
What is your dream car?
Well the R8 was the dream car 😊. I guess the next car I would love to own would be a Porsche GT4, Turbo, or GT3.
Advice/Tips?
March to the beat of your own drum. Everyone is different so you shouldn’t need to compare yourself against other people. Invest in what makes you happy. For me, working on my own cars has given me much enjoyment.
