PASMAG - Issue 134 - Dec/Jan

ONLY 9!

CANADA’S SOURCE FOR MODIFIED CAR CULTURE

$4.9

MID NIGHT CLUB PART 5

DEBRIEFING WITH

TOP SECRET’S SMOKY NAGATA

LADY IN RED IMPORTFEST’S ROCKET BUNNY

RC 350

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CONTENTS D E C E M B E R

//

J A N U A R Y

WAYFARER 72

84 TEAM NO SIESTA

Richard P’s Immigrant Skyline HR30

in

INTERSTELLAR 78 Jonathan Leung’s VW R32

M2-Motoring’s Fiesta ST

86 BY THE HORNS Mad Mike’s Quad-Rotor Drift MX-5

Page

64

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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Audio Excellence Wherever the Road Leads

AUDIO HORSEPOWER Enjoy high performance in your car with a Kenwood eXcelon Mobile Audio System. eXcelon is an advanced array of precisely matched components that work together to transcend the many challenges of the automobile listening environment. It’s our most advanced series of mobile audio products, and delivers the kind of uncompromising sound that true audiophiles demand.

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D E C E M B E R

//

J A N U A R Y

CONTENTS tr.

TRENDING 23 27

SEMA BUILD PREVIEWS FEATURED EVENT Importfest 2015

31

EVENT SPOTTERS GUIDE FITTED & Tuner Evolution: Philly

34 LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS 36 HOT NEW PRODUCTS 40 #TBGLIVE WINNER FEATURES Shawn Flindall’s Chevy Aveo & Gabriel Gonzalez’s Scion tC2

MOBILE ELECTRONICS 44

SOUND ADVICE Tuning with an RTA

46 TEST REPORT Kenwood DDX9902X head unit

48 TEST REPORT JBL BassPro SL powered subwoofer

52

TEST REPORT Rockford Fosgate T1S-1X10P subwoofer system

56 TEST REPORT Boost BX-800 battery booster

58 GARRY’S GARAGE Project C6 Audio Build Finale

COLUMNS 19

TUNED IN Mid Night Club Part 5 – Debriefing with Smoky Nagata

92

JACOB’S DRIFT Planning the perfect “Driftcation”

LIFESTYLE 96 KONIG CALENDAR Aubrey Nicole & the new Konig Interflow (December)

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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PASMAG (ISSN # 1710-1573) is published 6 times a year by Performance Auto & Sound Inc. 100A-219 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON, M6K 3J1, Canada SUBSCRIPTION RATES: (10 issues) Canada and USA: $24.99 (20 issues) Canada and USA: $34.99 (30 issues) Canada and USA: $42.99 Toll Free: 1 (888) 564-SUBS [7827] Email: subs@pasmag.com www.pasmag.com/subscribe GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO Tim Rutledge PUBLISHERS Blake Breslin & Perry Breslin FOUNDER & SR. VP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Frank Spezzano

EDITORIAL EDITOR Micky Slinger GROUP MANAGING EDITOR Shaun Keenan EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Michael Bettencourt TECHNICAL EDITOR Garry Springgay DIGITAL COORDINATORS Nick Jambrosic, Adam Steinberg

CONTRIBUTORS

Nelson Ayra Andrew Bohan Zach Brehl Chris Bryant Eddie Cayer Kevin Choi Eric Eikenberry

Jeremy Alan Glover Shane Hunter Jacob Leveton Tara Lynn Photography Jason Manchester Fardeen Shere Adam Zillin

ART & PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR Queue Gonzalez PRODUCTION & SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Patrick Dinglasan SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Edward Shintani SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Patrick Beltijar GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mike Chan

S A L E S & A D M I N I ST R AT I O N DIRECTOR, AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT Randi Bentia DIRECTOR, CLIENT SERVICES Richard Robles SENIOR DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Matthew Adolfo DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Craig Sweetman SENIOR SALES ASSOCIATE Ken Rule CLIENT SERVICES Nicole Winters Performance Auto & Sound Magazine welcomes unsolicited contributions including stories (typewritten), photos, club news, events, etc. (Forward to PAS, 100A-219 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON, M6K 3J1, Canada) Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40069655 PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NIAGARA FALLS, NY AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. U.S.P.S. # 022-608 U.S. OFFICE OF PUBLICATION: 1855 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY, 14305 U.S. POSTMASTER SEND ADDRESS CORRECTIONS TO: Performance Auto & Sound, Box 1082, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304 Occasionally, we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies whose products and services might be of interest to our readers.

If you prefer to have your name removed from this list, please write to us at the address below and include your mailing label. For any subscription inquiries, including change of address, call 1 (888) 564-SUBS.

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SEMA Member

ISSUE PREVIEW

WE PUT ON A

SUIT AND EVERYTHING…

H

ey, guys! This is a super exciting issue of PASMAG (not that all the others aren’t) in that this very issue will be making its debut at SEMA! That’s right, the largest automotive aftermarket trade show, and birth-giver to three-quarters of the features you’ll see in magazines and online in the next year, will be the big stage our December / January issue will be revealed on. If you’re picking this up on the newsstand or grabbing it out of your mailbox, this may seem overdramatic, but we’re totally stoked. We’re strapped in and suited up to show SEMA-goers who the best tuner magazine really is.

As always, we’ve got the best on offer.

Courtesy of our hardworking columnists, we

bring you stories from Japan, the sound lab and Formula Drift. Adam Zillin, our man in Japan, has been covering the roots of the Mid Night Club for a while now, and in its fifth part he sits down with Mr. Top Secret himself – Smoky Nagata – to discuss the beginning, the middle and the future of Mid Night. Garry Springgay was able to pull himself out of his lab to provide you with some insight into RTA tuning a system. Is it all it’s cracked up to be?

Or is the whole RTA thing a crock? Find out in Sound Advice. Our drift insider, Jacob Leveton, has obviously got some time off on his mind, so he threw together a guide on where the best spots are for a “driftcation,” and what you should see and do while you’re there.

The lady in red on our front cover is one of the few Lexus RC 350s out there rocking a Rocket Bunny widebody kit. Paired with one-of-a-kind parts and a stellar trunk install, you’ll understand why it’s up front.

Bolstering the RC in our feature department are a couple other rad vehicles. How about an HR30 Skyline that was restored in Japan and then brought over to the States to drop jaws? If Euro is a little more your flavor, we have a Volkswagen R32 putting down some serious numbers and wearing an out of this world paint job. If all else fails, there’s always a quad-rotor MX-5 driven by the New Zealand’s angry drifter, Mad Mike. But who are we kidding? You’ll love them all.

We can’t spoil the whole issue here though!

Take a peek inside for SEMA previews, awesome products for you and your car, product tests and other shenanigans. We hope we’ve impressed you. Now if you’ll excuse us, we have to straighten our ties and run to some SEMA meetings.

MICKY SLINGER

PASMAG EDITOR

C O N N E C T MAKING IT EASIER TO STALK US THAN EVER BEFORE!

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DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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PASMAG

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TUNING INSIDER

THE LEGEND OF MID NIGHT CLUB: PART V D E B R I E F I N G W I T H TO P S E C R E T ’ S S M O KY N A G ATA STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM ZILLIN

Smoky Nagata is an enigma in Japanese tuning circles, and his brand Top Secret carries more meaning than you may be aware of. Nagata-san is a very softly spoken, introverted type of guy who greatly values his privacy and space; a man who chooses his words carefully.

He certainly epitomizes the type of man who speaks softly and carries a big stick. As an unashamed extrovert, I have, from time to time, found it difficult to read Smoky, but when you give the man a chance to unwind and enjoy your company, at his own pace, great things can happen. I personally have the greatest amount of respect for the legendary tuner, so it’s with great pleasure I can bring you, the readers of PASMAG, a very special little Q&A. Thanks for your time Smoky; it’s always a pleasure talking with you. As I mentioned, we sat down with Tazawa-san from GForce garage and now our readers would like to know a little about your involvement in the RH9 group. Can you tell us how it all started for you?

It’s my pleasure! Eighteen years ago, I joined as one of the original members. At that time, it was difficult for all of the tuners to talk to each other; but through the RH9 group, we could cooperate and build together, while still reaching for our individual goals.

Of course, it’s good to be rivals and battle on the track – that is healthy but in this industry we also wanted to be popular, so the RH9 group as a united group of tuners makes us all stronger while enabling us to pursue our own personal goals.

Was it more a question of personal goals or strength in numbers?

The group was paramount. Even though I wanted to develop my own parts, as a group we discussed tuning on the same platforms so our knowledge increased as a direct result of the RH9 group being together.

That’s why I became a part of it. At that time in 1997, there were around 10 members. Now I believe there are more than 30.

That’s about as many as I understand there to be as well.

How regularly do the RH9 members meet?

We meet every one or two months to discuss things. Again, if I’m developing parts by myself, the costs are prohibitive, so I hope you understand the point that 10 of us developing on the same platform reduces costs and makes production possible for everyone.

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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TUNING INSIDER

"KEEP IN MIND, THE JAPANESE WERE RUNNING EIGHT-SECOND PASSES IN R32S BEFORE MANY OF US WERE BORN OR KNEW WHAT A GT-R WAS."

I can understand and see the huge benefits to that. How did that blend when you created Top Secret?

Well, us tuners could have become a place like Autobacs, but it would have been nothing more than basic tuning and servicing; and I knew I wanted to do far more than to become a basic service center. I wanted to push tuning to the limits and there would be no point if I or the other members of the RH9 group just did the same thing as a place like Autobacs.

I see… and that explains why you’re still pushing the envelope 20 years later?

It’s why I am still pushing with a car like the R35. I’ve found that the more you do to it, the more you get from it. The limits are so high and that makes it a lot more enjoyable for me. My customers are the same. They want to push the car as hard as I do, so the R35 is definitely my kind of machine.

What do you make of the new RC-F? I like the car, but it’s naturallyaspirated, so I don’t enjoy it so much. I prefer forced induction from cars like the Supra and GT-R. Speaking of forced induction, I noticed you gave up on the Top Secret turbocharged 86 platform after last year’s Tokyo Auto Salon. What happened there?

It wasn’t a platform I really enjoyed developing. I realized that I was going to have to spend a lot of time to get it to an acceptable level for my standards, and I just couldn’t justify the time or the expense. Sure, the platform is popular, but that’s a separate issue to actually developing parts for it. That’s why I stopped development on the 86.

That’s fair. So, tell us a bit about your favorite cars past and present.

Naturally, I like any of the GT-R range from the R32 through to the R35 today. Of course, the Supra is a personal favorite, especially the JZA80.

Yes, you’re definitely a big power guy! In recent years, you’ve focused on the R35.

Tell us about that.

The R35 is capable of great things and is the current Japanese supercar headline act. Because there are so many of us in the RH9 group that are developing parts for the R35, we can share some information and that makes the group an even stronger unit. This is the way to move forward quickly on tuning and development matters.

I hear you also tuned cars like the Altezza. Can you tune mine?

(Laughs) Did you know I created parts for the Altezza one-make series back in the day? One of the cars I developed got third in the championship one year.

I was working on the Altezza parts alongside my developments for the JZA80 Supra - things like front and rear aero parts as well.

Are you serious?! Do you still have the molds?

No, I threw them away.

What do you make of the rumors about the new “Supra” Toyota are supposedly developing?

I think it’s really interesting.

I like the thought of BMW engine technology powering it. I want to work with that engine. Even if its a hybrid, and I have a chance, I can develop and tune anything I get my hands on!

That sucks… But I’m still going to bring my car there so you can set it up for me.

You’re most welcome. I’ll make sure it’s ideal for you.

One last question: word is that you’re going back to England where you got busted on the expressways!

Is this true?

Yes, it’s true, but I can’t tell you any more than that. Naturally, it’s Top Secret.

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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TRENDING

SEMA PREVIEWS

LIBERTY WALK

LB WORKS STANCE Mini Cooper R56

Coming way out of left field as one of the last things we’d imagine that Kato and his band of merry widebody men would tackle... the LB WORKS STANCE Mini Cooper. Notice how the naming on the kit is “LB WORKS STANCE” instead of the usual “WORKS” or “PERFORMANCE?” Could this be a new offshoot line of kits coming down the pipe? All we know so far is that the kits are now available and Kato has finished his personal car in his usual Zero livery. You can expect to see a few of these wide Minis at SEMA this year.

LB WORKS Audi R8 It’s been teased in renderings and we’ve even seen the in-progress images on social media, but so far things have remained fairly tight-lipped about the finished product that will debut at the show.

From the renderings, we can gather that we’ll see that the shape and style of the rear overfenders really take after the ones on the GT-R, while the fronts are more of a half fender that lend to the OEM lines very well. Large diffusers for the front and rear jut out fairly far to promote some more aggression, while a large trunk-integrated ducktail (which is quickly becoming a trademark) rounds out the rear. Stay tuned for coverage from the official unveiling!

M2-MOTORING

Hyundai Genesis If you were a fan of Mike Ma’s Fiesta ST last year (see page 84), be sure to check out M2-Motoring’s latest build for the 2015 show. The M2M 2015 Hyundai Genesis coupe will feature new products from DC Sports (intake, cat-back exhaust, test pipes, header and strut bar), Seibon Carbon (carbon fiber hood, trunk, wing and rear diffuser), Megan Racing (Street Series coilovers) and custom red leather interior

by Alea Leather. The Gen Coupe will be displayed in Autodip’s booth (North hall #12571). Stop by and say hi!

THE LATEST TRENDS, FULL THROTTLE

FACEBOOK.COM/PASMAG

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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SEMA PREVIEWS PROJEKT CARS

Projekt Soldier ’s Mettle 2015 Ford Mustang

A play on words, the owner of the vehicle is one of the very few to receive the US Army’s Soldier’s Medal. The medal is given to active duty members who save a life. The build is one of 15 SEMA booth vehicles for Projekt Cars, and one of three vehicles to be used to acquire funding for the Fallen Soldier Memorial, which will represent Fort Bliss soldiers who have given the final sacrifice to their country. Noteworthy modifications include a Sigala 19-piece carbon fiber body kit and Vorsteiner wheels in the style department, Whipple supercharger for some performance gains and a PowerBass custom audio set-up for extra kick.

ROCKET BUNNY

Nissan S14 V2 Boss

It might look like a Challenger throwback, but what you’re looking at is the revised front end of Kei Miura’s newest vision for the Nissan 240 SX, specifically the S14 chassis. Teased on the Internet via renderings a few months ago, we’ve actually seen some real life examples of the kit, but you should be on the lookout for different versions and styles at the show. Front-mounted intercoolers, chin spoilers and custom liveries should be on your spotters guide. If you’ve been following Autofashion USA at all, you’ll know they have a serious build underway. Rocket Bunny isn’t just fenders and spoilers anymore.

TJIN EDITION Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec This project between Tjin Edition and Hyundai is poised to be an exciting, fast and attention-grabbing one. Some of the highlights of this build include the custom Kylie Tjin Green Axalta paint finish, custom lip kit and metal wing, three-piece Rotiform wheels, Falken tires, Baer brakes and a KW suspension. What really sets this Genesis apart is the Vortech supercharger system built, designed and tuned by the crew at Bisimoto Engineering. The Tjin Edition Genesis Coupe R-Spec will be debuting in the Hyundai booth at this year’s big show.

Signal Kustom 2016 Honda HR-V The team at Tjin Edition have also partnered with world renowned car designer Signal Kustoms for this project. Signal Kustoms is responsible for designing and building the fender flares and body kit on the HR-V, which will be produced and sold after SEMA. Besides the kit, custom three-piece Rotiform wheels, custom Collin Tjin Raspberry Axalta paint will draw people into the Honda booth. Well-known partners such as Falken, Baer Brakes, AirLift, MagnaFlow, Thule, Optima Batteries, Scosche, Downstar, Meguiar’s and Royal Purple will also be part of this incredible build.

GET THE FULL PICTURE

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DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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FEATURED EVENTS

tr.

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IMPORTFEST

BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FARDEEN SHERE & MICKY SLINGER

G

oing strong

were opened up to a jaw-dropping

for 15 years

180,000 square-feet, which, if can

probably means

even begin to imagine, was filled

you know what

with super high caliber cars of every

works. Becoming

make, model and generation. Dat-

the most recognized event in the

sun, Chevy, Hyundai, Lamborghini,

Canadian automotive aftermar-

supercharged, rotary, lowered and

ket industry definitely means you

lifted; there was something there

do. Merging modified cars, live

for everyone to swarm around.

entertainment, vendors and lifestyle, Importfest proves that it’s that winning formula that keeps ‘em coming back.

Since 2001, Importfest

The Importfest team

AUG 22 2015

has been the place to be if you’re looking for your fill of

themselves brought out some pretty choice metal. Debuting at the show alone was Liberty Walk’s newest take on the G37 and two Lexus

(Lexii?) RC Rocket Bunny cars,

the tuning lifestyle. For the 2015

with the RC-F being a world first. Of

iteration, halls A, B and C of the

course, the 370Z version of Mellow

Metro Toronto Convention Centre

Yellow was highlighting the front of the show, near the Importfest merch booth.

Ontario’s own powerhouse team, Nextmod, took up their own corner of the massive hall with just their show cars.

Widebody everything, from GT-Rs to 458s to RSXs, as well as some track-ready cars populated their section. There was even a track-weapon Evo, equipped with air jacks! That’s

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W E A R E AT I T A G A I N INTRODUCING THE NEWEST CLARION BUILDS PROJECT CAR — THE 1991 ACURA NSX

Watch the adventure unfold at CL A R I ON B U I L D S .COM

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2015-10-01 10:28 AM

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Of course, an event wouldn’t be

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Battlegrounds Live (#TBGLIVE)

lower in and out of the fenders!

competition. The four who came

Liefstyle brands like TBA were

to showdown were Kevin Tay and

out showing off the newest gear

his Audi A3 S-Line, Jeuss Santiagao

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and screwed versions of the most

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his 1993 Nissan Skyline GTS-T.

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clear to see that Importfest is the

votes and came away with the

place to be if this whole modified

#TBGLIVE title.

car thing has a hold on you. 2016 is

Some other standout cars from the show were some that you’d

going to be bigger, better and badder, so get planning.

probably only see in the Toronto area. One of which is Canadian producer Deadmau5’ cat-themed supercar: the Nyanborghini Purracan.

Essentially a Lamborghini Hurracan wrapped in a meme and wearing all the appropriate badging, the Purracan drew huge crowds to the Sekan Skin area. The other car was bat-themed – as in a working scale replica of Tim Burton’s Batmobile

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THE LATEST TRENDS, FULL THROTTLE

FACEBOOK.COM/PASMAG

Fitted:

O N TA R I O P LA C E

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICKY SLINGER & PATRICK BELTIJAR

For the first time, Fitted has hosted two events within the Greater Toronto Area. The second, the largest Fitted event ever, was hosted at Ontario Place and took over one of their massive parking lots. For fans of the usual Brampton Fairgrounds show, this was a bit of a change in atmosphere. Instead of show inside and meet outside, this was an outdoor show and shine only, but that didn’t mean it didn’t hit hard. Bringing out some of the craziest rides in recent memory from around the GTA and over the border, this was one to remember.

If you’ve seen any kind of media from the event, you’ll have seen the most talked about car there, the aptly named “JDM 458” Liberty Walk widebody Ferrari 458 Italia. In striking white with the right amount of JDM twist on the Italian power pony and wearing

JAS BAJWA

52%

golden AVD.1 horseshoes, it was a sight to behold.

Other notable mentions go out to Liberty VIP’s Ty Pertab and his Lexus GS making the trip – red carpet and all – as well as the crew from Chicago, like Morris Jamlang’s “Egg” and Raymond Leung’s FR-S, which was actually a top contender in our PASMAG Tuner Battlegrounds #TBGLIVE competition.

The rest of the #TBGLIVE contenders included Jas Bajwa (1973 Datsun 240Z), Mike Howe (2012 Nissan 370Z) and Leyon Motiram (2006 Mazdaspeed6).

Coming out of this solid lineup with the W was Bajwa’s Datsun with 52 percent of the popular vote. Well deserved!

There really was something for everyone. Whether you’re after JDM, Euro, cambered, track-ready, etc. – as long as it’s low and has some nice wheels, it’s at Fitted. Even the modified Ruckus squad from Mini Moto Lab came to hang out.

So, if you couldn’t make it out this year, you should be planning to get out here for the next. Nice cars, awesome people, Beavertails and poutine – how could you say no?

OF THE

POPULAR VOTE DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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5440 West Chester Road

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Department: PAS

2015-10-05 3:02 PM

EVENT SPOTTERS GUIDE FILL 'ER UP

PASMAG.COM

tr.

Tuner Evolution: P H I L LY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN CHOI

The roof! The roof! The roof is on fire!

Tuner Evolution’s annual Philadelphia event was hot! In fact, it was so hot outside that a bush caught fire in the parking lot of the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, which meant everyone, excluding fire marshalls, had to wait outside for a brief moment. The heat outside carried inward onto the show floor where we witnessed some the best modified vehicles on the East Coast, live DJs and performances, a B-Boy competition, a handful of prize giveaways, models, celebrities and a bikini contest. There were a few dozen vendors on display, of which were Blockstar, Eagle One, FAST of West Chester, Nine 1 Forged, Performance Bodega, Rotiform and Toyo Tires. These combined resulted in a massive attendance of over 5,000 spectators and about 350 cars!

On top of that excitement, the car show competition was judged by eJudged, a streamline judging process that uses a mobile app to calculate votes in real-time.

With instant results, it was Rick Fontan’s BMW M3 that came away with Best in Show.

Between the Flossman widebody kit, the 20-inch SP1s, Vortech supercharger and the unreal Focal audio setup, it’s not hard to see why he came away with the win.

The PASMAG Tuner Battlegrounds #TBGLIVE competition was out in full force with some serious contenders, too. The top qualifiers were John Perez (1993 Mazda RX-7), Aleigh Hutzel (2014 Subaru WRX), Adam Baumel (2002 Audi TT) and Danny Hong (2006 BMW M5). With 62 percent of the popular vote, Perez’s father-son RX-7 was the victor! Catch his feature in PASMAG’s Performance Special Edition, on newsstands between October 2nd and December 31st.

Ladies-wise, Dannie Riel was the feature model, posted up in a huge booth with a backdrop to take pictures with fans.

Jeri Lee, a Philly regular, hosted the bikini contest, which was taken by the crowd favorite Yelinice Lopez-Velez.

All in all, even with the minor emergency, Philly was a success. We had such a great time that we’re already planning to have more of us out there next year!

JOHN PEREZ

62 %

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POPULAR VOTE

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e l y t s e f i L

Hoonigan

Import Bible

Go Fast, Cheat Death Coach’s Jacket

$27 | ImportBible.com

HOT NEW PRODUCTS TBA Throttle Brake Apex Long Sleeve $50 | TBABrand.com The logo seems familiar doesn’t it? Are you that gearheaded that you’ve thought of the Half Dome as more of a corner, rather than a famous mountain? Then you’re a lot like TBA, whose long sleeve evokes just that imagery – corner lines and all. Let them know you have your own apexes to conquer. Printed on a white, 100% cotton, preshrunk tubular jersey.

Six Shirt

$64.95 | Hoonigan.com Even Death Cheetahs get chilly sometimes. Hoonigan’s “Go Fast, Cheat Death” coach-style jacket is fitted to make you look good and lined to keep you toasty. There’s even a drawstring adjustable waist and welt pockets on the front for extra convenience. The front features Hoonigan’s coffin deisng, while the back has the “Go Fast, Cheat Death” slogan with its Death Cheetah mascot.

This shirt features the Mitsubishi Evo 6, the last Evo built on the CP9A platform. The Evo 6 was a boxy and formidable road machine, and like its predecessors, the Evo 6 raced in the World Rally Championship under the Marlboro Ralliart team, hence the familiar stylized Import Bible logo on the shoulder.

HPI Racing x Fatlace Subaru BRZ RS4 Sport 3 Drift RC $255 | Shop.Fatlace.com This drift RC car is a collab between HPI Racing and Fatlace, which features replica HPI Dai Champion wheels and Falken 615k T-Drift tires, with a livery designed after sifting through Subaru’s extensive racing heritage. The all-new chassis houses a fully-enclosed 4WD shaft drive, sealed metal-geared diff and double wishbone suspension, oil-filled coilovers and a composite tub chassis design.

Import Bible

Tuner Lifestyle

Tuner Lifestyle

Devil Z Keychain

TL Super Hoodie

Kanjo Civic Tee

$6.66 | ImportBible.com

£24.99 (~$37.99) | TunerLifestyle.co.uk

£11.95 (~$18.13) | TunerLifestyle.co.uk

Tuner Lifestyle’s TL Super Hoodie features a high-quality, super-thick, ultra-soft peach finish fabric with a triple-panel hood to keep you warm on those cold nights in the garage.

A kangaroo pouch with concealed phone pockets can hold your gear and the ribbed hem and cuff have thumb holes. Last, but not least, there’s the flock chest print of TL’s most recognized logo on the front.

This design was fully hand-drawn in Tuner Lifestyle’s popular retro comic style. The design shows a Kanjo EF Civic racing through the streets of Osaka, Japan. The 100% cotton, heavy-duty shirt with high-quality screen printed design makes for a very durable and hardworking tee; perfect for ripping down your own streets – responsibly, of course.

In the manga series Wangan Midnight, a young man searches for a faster ride after a humiliating defeat on the Wangan. He discovers a Datsun Fairlady Z in a junkyard and wonders why someone would scrap a classic car, but soon finds out that he’s unearthed the infamous Devil Z. Import Bible’s commemorative rubber key chain features glow in the dark accents for your Devil ride.

# H O O N I G A N R A C I N G

Lifestyle Products.indd 1

# F A T L A C E

# I M P O R T B I B L E

# T U N E R L I F E S T Y L E

# T B A

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HOT NEW PRODUCTS ORACLE Smart WiFi LED Controller $199.95 | ORACLELights.com The ORACLE Smart WiFi LED Controller offers more versatility with increased functionality. Through the built-in WiFi function, you can control various types of LED lighting products wirelessly with your mobile device.

With smaller overall dimensions, the controller module can be installed in areas where space is limited.

The software application is free to download from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Audison Voce AV 5.1k HD Amplifier ElettroMedia-USA.com / MobileSolutions-Canada.com Dedicated to the enthusiasts who wish to build an Audison full DA HD system and enjoy the quality of high-resolution audio files, this 5-channel power amplifier features the unique hybrid design made up of two 75-watt A-Class channels, two 250-watt AB-Class channels and one 1000watt D-Class channel. The new, built-in AV bit IN HD digital interface is optimized to appreciate the superior dynamics of high-resolution audio files.

SPEC Clutch Super Twin Clutch Kit for 200510 BMW M5/M6 SPECClutch.com SPEC’s new Super Twin multi-disc clutch kits are specially designed to install with the standard BMW re-learn process and, after future rebuild or replacement with a SPEC unit, NOT require a new re-learn process. These assemblies are available in four different trim levels, supporting power levels from 710 lb-ft with organic discs up to 1,125 lb-ft with fullfaced graphite semi-metallic discs.

Unitronic Cat-Back Exhaust for VW MK7 GTI $1,099.99 | GetUnitronic.com Constructed of T304 stainless steel and featuring a free-flowing muffler design, the 3-inch Unitronic Exhaust System for the MK7 GTI unleashes full potential, allowing for maximum performance while maintaining an unobtrusive tone in the cabin. Unitronic’s unique V-band fastening system allows for easy installation and a leakproof seal every time.

Vortech V3 Si Supercharger System for 2015 Ford Mustang GT $6,549.99 | VortechSuperchargers.com Vortech Engineering is proud to announce the release of its V-3 Si supercharging systems for the 2015 Mustang GT. Continuing with Vortech’s dominant presence throughout the 5.0L Coyote V8 market, the 2015 S550 systems are even easier to install, with even more impressive gains at the same boost level.

Sylvania

Truhart

ZEVO Pulse $54.99 | Sylvania.com/Auto

Air Suspension

Enhance your vehicle’s style with ZEVO Pulse, a universal LED product that adds color to your headlights. Simple to install, ZEVO Pulse attaches to the outside of the headlight lens and connects directly to any 12-volt source. Using Bluetooth technology, one mobile device can control color and mode of one or multiple systems using the free SYLVANIA ZEVO app.

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From $1,650 | TruhartUSA.com Truhart air struts offer an economical, but proven option for complete air suspension systems. Truhart air struts start from $1,650 and feature adjustable lower mounts to allow maximum ride height adjustment. Available in damping and non-damping adjustable configurations, with management kits anywhere from basic analog configuration to full digital with smartphone apps functionality available from $700.

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Pioneer AVH-X5800BHS Head Unit $480 | PioneerElectronics.com/Car

Rydeen MD4BT Digital Mirror Monitor $299 | RydeenMobile.com The MD4BT is a 3-in-1 solution that incorporates a 4.3-inch LCD display Mirror Monitor for rear camera viewing, a Bluetooth hands-free system and Mi-Link – Rydeen’s digital link to any smartphone device. The MD4BT brings the internet to one’s in-vehicle environment, and it is designed to fit thousands of vehicle applications utilizing Rydeen’s windshield mounting system.

Pioneer’s latest in-dash multimedia DVD receiver offers a variety of technologies and entertainment features, including Bluetooth functionality for convenient handsfree calling and music streaming, Siri Eyes Free, SiriusXMReady, HD Radio, Android Music support and Pandora. New for 2016, the AVH-X5800BHS adds Spotify control, FLAC audio file playback compatibility and a new clear resistive touchscreen on the 7-inch motorized display.

FTEightySix

FTEightySix

FTEightySix

Super B.A.D Dome Light for Scion FR-S & Subaru BRZ

Rear Reverse Bar for Scion FR-S & Subaru BRZ

LED Switchback Turn Signal Lights for Scion FR-S

$34.99 | FTEightySix.com

$189 | FTEightySix.com

$49.99 | FTEightySix.com

We all know the OE dome light output is not cool in the FR-S, so FTEightySix developed a solution. They offer the only dome light panel with adjustable brightness. With this you can now see everything in your FR-S or BRZ. For more information, visit FTEightySix.com and search keyword “dome light.”

The F1 V2 rear bar is a full LED bar that provides enhanced safety, as the white LEDs are much brighter while backing up for more visibility.

The V2 bar also has running lights and a F1-style mutli-flash brake light to better alert other drivers when stopping. For more info and videos, visit FTEightySix.com and search “F1 reverse bar.”

The LED Switchback Turn Signal is now available for the Scion FR-S. The Switchback replaces your factory front turn signal indicator bulb. Installation is a 10- to 15-minute job, and at the end you’ll have a crisp white light while driving and still have full amber functioning turn signals. For more information visit FTEightySix. com and search keyword “switchback” to see the different types.

Sony XS-GSW121 $129.99 | Sony.com The XS-GSW121’s SVC subwoofer cone is constructed using a Mica Reinforced Cellular composite for reduced weight and increase rigidity, delivering deep bass response. This 12-inch, 4-ohm subwoofer features high power handling, and is rated at 500 watts CEA RMS and 2,000 watts peak.

Audiopipe APSB-12AMP Powered Enclosure Audiopipe.com The APSB-12AMP is a pre-built, high quality MDF enclosure covered in durable, high-density carpet that features a 600-watt amplifier and 12-inch highperformance woofer. The system includes both high- and low-level inputs, as well as a variable low-level control and low-pass crossover. The thin, 7-inch deep design makes it a perfect choice for trucks or small cars.

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COMPETITION

ESSENTIALS 2014 Scion tC

GABRIEL GONZALEZ 2014 SCION TC

BY ADAM STEINBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE HUNTER

52 %

#TBGLIVE

WINNER

HOT IMPORT NIGHTS ANAHEIM STADIUM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

G

onzalez is no stranger to building. Having first helped his father with racecars at the age of five, the process has quickly become a passion. When he first brought the 2014 Scion tC home, purchased after totalling his 2011 model, he wasn’t too sure if he had made the right pick. He was sure of one thing, however, and that was his vision: to build the hottest daily driven show car on the lot.

There are two brands that Gonzalez calls to attention – APR Performance and Racing Solutions. One of his first modifications on the tC was an APR front lip kit, a brand that quickly became a loyalty when Gonzalez went back for a second part, saying the company “has been the

LOCATION: Upland, CA CAR CLUB: Scion Image ENGINE: Toyota 2.5L AGT20 I-4 HORSEPOWER: 185 hp TORQUE: 180 lb-ft

ENGINE ∂ Injen (dry filter, cold air intake) ∂ Weapon-R throttle management ∂ Royal Purple 5W20 motor oil EXHAUST ∂ Agency Power cat-back exhaust system

@ ST R I CT LY HI G HG R AD ES

most amazing to work with on getting a splitter kit made for my 2014 tC.” Then there’s Racing Solutions, which Gonzalez says is the most supportive of the entire tC community. They’re responsible for the duck bill spoiler and the new RS lip for the ’14 and ’15 models.

Being part of the tC community comes with its own challenges. Trends continue to change and it becomes an ongoing battle of being the first to show off new parts. Having a low, stanced, uniquely set-up daily driver is Gonzalez’s goal, which he says has managed to keep up with the community. This is supported by his communication with various companies and their interest in building body kits and other parts that aren’t readily available.

Gonzalez draws much of his inspiration from the Scion’s 2013 Tuner Challenge. He says the potential for a build illustrated by those champions helps motivate his efforts of making ongoing improvements. Moving forward, Gonzalez has plans to duplicate the stylings of R35 GT-Rs and Kei Miura’s Rocket Bunny.

WHEELS/TIRES/ BRAKES ∂ VIP Modular VRC13 wheels - 19x9.5 +30 (f/r) ∂ Delinte Thunder D7 tires 235/35 R19 (f/r) ∂ R1 Concepts 12-in.

1-pc. drilled & slotted rotors (f/r) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ TEIN Super Street coilovers ∂ Cusco strut bar (f) ∂ TB Performance (adjustable C-pillar brace, mid-chassis brace V2, traction bar V2, strut bar (r)) EXTERIOR ∂ APR Performance custom (wind splitter, side skirts) ∂ Racing Solution TC2 duck lip spoiler ∂ Rolled fenders (r) ∂ Dr. Stickers vinyl graphics ∂ Password:JDM red battery tiedown ∂ TRD black oil cap ∂ Takata Formula Drift tow hook ∂ Carbon fiber B-pillar appliqué kit ∂ NIA eyelids ∂ LED (red; side markers, running lights, turn bulbs, white; reverse bulbs) ∂ 6K HID (headlights, fog lights) INTERIOR ∂ Carbon fiber skinned interior pieces ∂ Takata Drift II harnesses ∂ LED (red map light, white dome light) MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ OEM Audio plus reference 400CF system

@ GAB ER S5

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// JANUARY

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@ T HEGAB E

2015-10-06 5:12 PM

COMPETITION

ESSENTIALS 2008 Pontiac Wave

LOCATION: Cobourg, ON CAR CLUB: Elusive Rides ENGINE: Chevrolet 1.6L ECOTEC I-4 HORSEPOWER: 103 hp TORQUE: 107 lb-ft

ENGINE ∂ Tejima Motorsport air filter ∂ ChromesIntake cold air intake ∂ NGK Iridium (spark plugs, ignition wires) ∂ Password JDM fender/bay bolts EXHAUST ∂ Custom 2-inch cat-back exhaust system ∂ Spec-D performance muffler WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ Avid.1 Av-12 wheels - 15x8 +15 (f/r) ∂ Nankang NS-2 tires - 185/45 R15 (f/r) ∂ EBC (drilled rotors (f), ceramic brake pads (f/r)) ∂ Blue painted rear drum breaks ∂ RTX chrome lug nuts ∂ Wheel spacers – 5 mm (f), 1-in. (r) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ CX Racing (VW MK2 Jetta/Golf coilovers (f), VW MK1 Jetta/Golf coilovers (r)) ∂ Custom adjustable front endlink kit ∂ KYB top mounts

SHAWN FLINDALL 2008 PONTIAC WAVE

BY NICK JAMBROSIC | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

#TBGLIVE

WINNER TORQUE MODIFIED

GARRETT B. RICHARD ARENA,

BOWMANVILLE, ONTARIO

S

63 %

OF THE POPULAR VOTE

hawn Flindall of Cobourg, Ontario originally had no intentions to become a tuner. Flindall simply bought his Wave because it was an inexpensive car that would take him from point A to point B. As the years went on, Flindall started to become more involved with the car scene, adding bits and pieces to his car, but never anything major. Eventually, he wanted to be the one to stand out, and decided to build something completely different from the rest of the scene. With a Chevy Aveo face swap, the “Sloveo” was born.

Flindall realized pretty quickly that there wasn’t a big market out there for Aveos and

TBGLIVE Chevy Aveo.indd 1

Waves. He was at the point where he almost gave up on the build, until one day an online forum gave him hope. Listed there he found how-tos, parts he could use and do-it-yourself write-ups that would give him all the knowledge he would need to bring his car to life.

After two years of building (and many more to come), Shawn poured out over $5,000 to make his car what it is today. His biggest supporters are his two boys and his wife Tara, who sflindall87 also does all of his photography. His club, Elusive Rides, is another inspiration for him, and they are a big part of what keeps him going.

Shawn’s favorite aspect of the build is his custom VW suspension and wheel setup. It never fails to put a smile on his face every morning when he walks out to his car sitting low and stanced.

Right now, the Sloveo is still a daily driver.

After this year, Flindall is hoping that it will be off the roads and in the shop for some major upgrades to turn the Sloveo into something not so slow anymore.

EXTERIOR ∂ 2000 Honda Civic Type R front lip ∂ Custom side & rear lip extensions ∂ 2008 Chevrolet Aveo (front bumper, grille) ∂ Password JDM quick release bumper kit ∂ BMW-style trunk lip ∂ Black housing headlights ∂ VHT tinted taillights ∂ Carbon fiber vinyl wrapped (hood, roof, trunk) ∂ RTX (high-beam/ low-beam 8K HID kit, 6K LED fog lights) CREE LED (signal lights, reverse lights, license plate lights) INTERIOR ∂ Blue stitched (shift boot, e-brake boot) ∂ Dragon Gauge gauges (voltage, air/fuel ratio, oil pressure) ∂ GlowShift A-pillar 3-gauge pod ∂ Cipher Auto racing seats ∂ Sparco floor mats ∂ Brushed blue aluminum vinyl accents ∂ Color-matched interior panels (pillars and roof liner) ∂ NITTO carbon-fiberstyle pedals ∂ Blue LED (accessory switches, interior, trunk) AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ Sony double-DIN head unit ∂ Kenwood 2,000-watt monoblock amplifier ∂ MTX (12-in. JackHammer subwoofers (2), ported enclosure, 6.5-in. component speakers, 6.5-in. 3-way rear speakers, 1-in. A-pillar component tweeters) ∂ 6.5-in. MTX component speakers (front) ∂ 7-in. rear monitors (2) ∂ MotoMaster Eliminator performance battery

@ SF LI N DALL87 @ SHAWN . F LI N DALL

2015-10-06 5:13 PM

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COMING IN 2016.

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SOUND ADVICE

Tuning with an RTA A good friend of mine, a highly respected car audio industry veteran, recently confessed to me that he was having a difficult time getting his car tuned to sound good. I know he has well trained ears, but he felt like he needed to be able to teach someone how to make a car sound good without a trained ear, and therefore needed some sort of measurement device that would guarantee good results. He went on to explain that he was currently relying on a very good Real Time Analyzer (RTA) and a good microphone.

However, the results were not great: the car sounded really bright when the RTA said it lacked top end.

Many people I have great respect for tune their cars by ear. And just as many, if not more, prefer to use an RTA or similar instrument. The folks who tune by ear generally get their desired result, but it can be a long laborious process, taking many hours of critical listening. The folks who tune with an RTA get the job done much quicker, but occasionally the results are not as good as they had hoped.

Here is why. Humans are very fortunate to have the ability to process complicated auditory information by amplitude, phase and frequency. This means our brains can tell if a sound is loud or quiet, near or far, and high or low frequency. And we can do it with thousands of different sounds, from all different directions simultaneously.

When our stereo speakers produce sound, that sound travels from the speaker in concentric rings, much like the ripples you see in a pond when a pebble is dropped in the water.

Some of the sound travels directly to our ears, while the rest fills the air in the listening environment and reflects off of the boundaries. These reflections then arrive at our ears to be processed by our brains. The reflections continue bouncing around and create reflection multiples, which also contribute to what we hear.

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Pretty easy to understand, right? Well, here is the most critical part: the direct sound arrives at our ears before the reflections and our brains give the earliest arriving sounds more importance. This means that if your car stereo system has speakers placed where you are more likely to hear reflected sounds first, or more reflected sound than direct sound, it will never be as good sounding as the same equipment producing primarily direct arriving sounds.

To accurately reproduce music, all sound from all speakers should arrive at your ears at exactly the same time. To this end, a great many home loudspeakers offset the tweeter location (usually putting it further back in the baffle) to better align the woofer and tweeter cones and “time align” the sound from the speakers so it arrives at your ears in unison.

For example, recording studios use specially designed speakers called “nearfield monitors” to provide the recording engineer with predominately direct sound. These rooms are also usually constructed and acoustically treated to minimize reflections.

We don’t have that luxury in car audio.

We don’t even have much choice when it comes to speaker location, so almost every car is going to have a significant amount of reflected sound energy to deal with. The human brain analyzes the earliest sound waves and forms the majority of its perception of the sound from this first arrival. Said differently, to our ears, we de-emphasize the reflections and concentrate on the direct sound, but we still hear all the reflections and they have a cumulative effect on our perception of the music.

And there is another issue: most tuners use “pink noise” for tuning. This creates a new problem because pink noise is continuous without a beginning or end. Music is the opposite, made of distinct events that start and stop. This is where the missing part of the equation comes in.

You guessed it: time!

WITH GARRY SPRINGGAY

Facebook: garry.springgay Website: cogentaudiolabs.com

Consider an RTA mic placed in front of a good two-way speaker with a flat frequency response. The RTA displays a nice flat line. Now, move the tweeter of the speaker back from the woofer and you’d still see the RTA with a nice flat line. However, the arrival times are now different between the woofer and tweeter, so the system will not sound the same, even though the RTA says they are identical. When you place the microphone of an RTA in a soundfield with a lot of reflected energy, it can only measure the amplitude and frequency of the sound at one specific instant in time. This means that, unlike your ears, the RTA cannot determine if the sound at the mic in any specific instant is direct or reflected. When you look at the RTA response of a car with a lot of reflected energy, it simply will not show all the energy we hear. To our ears, the car will sound bright, while it may show a flat or even diminished high frequency response on the RTA. Because of this, when designing an accurate sound system, it is very important to consider reflections and multiples of those reflections. Without such consideration, the result will be reduced sonic accuracy and realism due to “time smear.” What this means in real life is that a car with fewer reflections will be easier to tune and get sounding good with an RTA. So, a car like my buddy’s with a lot of reflections will sound poor if tuned only with an RTA. At the end of the day, an RTA can be a very useful tool in tuning, but only if you understand its limitations and design the system with as little reflected sound as possible. When in doubt, always trust a welltrained set of ears because the processing power involved there is better than a thousand RTAs. If you are interested in this topic, you may want to look for an upcoming article on using a better tool than an RTA for tuning Project C6, an audio analyzer that measures in three dimensions.

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In Canada contact GemSen Distribution at www.gemsen.com

JLA-AMS-PAS.indd 1 Untitled-3 1

4/9/15 5:05 4:36PM PM 2015-04-09

TEST REPORT

Kenwood DDX9902S

Multimedia Receiver Now that our smartphones are simply an integral part of our daily lives, it stands to reason that the other electronic devices we interface with should also make use of the abilities of our phones.

There’s no better place for that to happen than in the dashboard of the car, providing not just convenience and connectivity, but adding the safety of hands-free operation as well. I’m not just talking about Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling either. The latest crop of multimedia source units includes a whole new level of compatibility. Thanks to the development of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you now have the full functionality and convenience of your smartphone right in your dashboard while driving.

FEATURES The Kenwood DDX9902S is a double-DIN multimedia receiver built around compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

By integrating the capabilities and connectivity of your smartphone, the Kenwood radio becomes your

control center for all sorts of smartphone functions. You have access to voice control via Siri or Google Now features, GPS mapping, traffic information, weather updates, or even have your messages or schedule read to you with both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Think of something while driving? No problem; you can leave reminders for yourself that are automatically stored in your phone when you leave the car. The CarPlay or Android Auto functions basically turn the screen of the unit into the controls for your phone, and the list of available apps is growing weekly.

The connections are very simple: just connect your compatible smartphone to the Kenwood’s USB port and you’re ready to go. If your phone supports HDMI or MHL output, you can also use those outputs to create a duplicate of your phone’s screen right on the radio’s display, which is handy for popular apps like Waze. When it comes to GPS-based apps, an external navigation antenna improves reception and accuracy

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

of your location regardless of what type of phone or app you use. Suppose you have an iPhone, but another family member uses an Android phone; the Kenwood will automatically switch between the two. The DDX9902S is also compatible with Miracast Dongles (including the Kenwood KCAWL100), which allows you to enjoy music, video or pictures over a wireless connection.

When using the CarPlay or Android Auto apps, the screen of the radio becomes your control panel and is designed to be very similar looking to the way the app looks on your phone. This aids in ease of use and minimizes the time you need to take your eyes off the road. Until you experience the convenience and amazing ease of use CarPlay or Android Auto brings, it’s difficult to understand.

Once you try it, the technology quickly becomes something you just won’t want to do without.

Of course, the DDX9902S is a lot more than just a tool to interface with your phone. It’s also an extremely capable DVD player and audio source, with built-in

AMPLIFIER

MEASURED

SPECS

46

PASMAG

Pandora, iHeart Radio and Aupeo apps. An optional SXV300 tuner is all that’s required for Sirius/ XM functionality. The Kenwood unit is also fully compatible with the iDataLink Maestro, which is perhaps the best OEM integration module currently available for many popular vehicles.

Operation of the unit is done primarily via the high quality 6.95-inch 16:9 aspect ratio TFT touchscreen display. There are hard buttons below the screen for common adjustments like volume, AV, audio, telephone/voice as well as the eject button. Several of these buttons are dual function; by pressing and holding them, you can access other functions like a rearview camera, for example.

The DDX9902S comes with an HD Radio tuner and supports playback for almost any type of CD format, including DivX, iPod control, playback from SD Card or USB drive. Of course, full Bluetooth connectivity is there to provide hands-free telephony with caller ID and storage of up to 600 of your phone’s contacts in the unit’s memory. Audio streaming is avail-

PREAMP SECTION

CEA-2006A power per channel (all channels driven @ 4 ohms)

18.2 watts/ch x 4

Max usable RCA output voltage

5.1 Vrms

A Wtd S/N ratio (ref to 2V/1W @ 4 ohms) amplified output

-78.0 dBA (CD)

A Wtd S/N Ratio ref to full output voltage

-87.1 dBA (CD)

THD+N @ 2V/1W @ 4 ohms 1 kHz

0.15%

Output impedance

140 ohms

Frequency response (-3.0 dB)

20 Hz – 20 kHz

Frequency response (-3.0 dB)

20 Hz – 20 kHz

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able via any of the typical (HFP/A2DP/ AVRCP/SSP) modes, and it also uses the highest quality Bluetooth audio support in the form of the AptX codec.

The Kenwood DDX9902S is fully compatible with an optional rearview camera and can be configured to automatically switch to the camera view when you put the car in reverse, or you can view the camera output anytime via a button on the front panel. If your car is equipped with steering wheel controls, they can be retained using an optional adapter or the iDatalink Maestro.

On the audio performance side of things, the DDX9902 includes a built-in four-channel amplifier and three sets of pre-amp outputs with a full five-volt capability. Also included is a DSP processor with a seven-band equalizer. You can adjust things for yourself and save the settings as a user curve or you can simply select any of the seven available preset curves. Additional sound tuning comes via built-in crossovers with the front and rear channels getting eight selectable frequencies and a choice of four different slopes. The sub outputs have a low-pass crossover with five frequencies and also four available slopes, as well as a subwoofer level control, and a sub output phase switch.

Rear panel connections include a single USB port, an HDMI input, front, rear and sub pre-outs, AV input, rear seat audio and video outputs, aux input, rear camera input, GPS antenna input, and the optional steering wheel controller input. The rear camera view can include adjustable parking assist guidelines, or none at all if you prefer.

Main menu screen is customizable as well, so you have your most often used functions right at your fingertips. You can also download your own wallpapers and truly customize the look of the front panel. Speaking of the front panel, this one can be adjusted to any one of seven different angles and it will remember the setting every time you start the car.

4 OHM POWER VS THD+N @ 1 KHZ 14.4 V BATT Cogent Audio Labs

4 OHM POWER vs THD+N

BATT 14.4V

5

2

1

0.5

0.2

0.1 % 0.05

LISTENING

0.02

With the DDX9902S as the source for my reference system, I play around with several different sources of music, including some DVDs. In each case the system performs admirably and the sound quality is very good. Music from my iPod sounds great and the AM/FM HD Radio tuner does an excellent job of pulling in all my usual stations. Sound quality of the HD Radio signal is excellent as well, and since HD became available, it’s about the only type of radio I listen to. While I’m generally not a Bluetooth music guy, I will admit that the AptX codec, with its 352 Kbps capability, is a big improvement over the Bluetooth audio of a few years ago.

0.01

0.005

0.002

0.001

600m

1

2

5

18.220

10

50

100

W KENWOOD DDX9 X 902S X9

4 OHM POWER vs v THD+N

ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN

BAT A T - 14.4V AT

PRE-OUT MAX FLAT, CD - FREQUENCY RESPONSE Cogent Audio Labs

PRE-OUT MAX FLAT, CD SOURCE - FREQUENCY RESPONSE

+6 +5.5 +5 +4.5 +4 +3.5 +3 +2.5 +2 +1.5 +1 +0.5 d B r

-0 -0.5 -1 -1.5 -2

ON THE BENCH The next day, I had the Kenwood on the test bench and after going through the usual battery of measurements, I confirm my opinions from my listening session. This is a very good performing unit. The controls and adjustments operate exactly as expected, and even the output impedance is good at only 140 ohms. Frequency response is virtually ruler flat and the signal to noise performance also measures well.

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Hz KENWOOD DDX9 X 902S X9

PRE-AMP MAX A AX FLAT A - FREQUENCY RESPONSE AT

CD SOURCE

SEPARATION OR CROSSTALK VS FREQUENCY Cogent Audio Labs

SEPARATION or CROSSTALK vs FREQUENCY

-20 -25 -30 -35

CONTROLS AND ERGONOMICS

CONCLUSION

Kenwood has had the ergonomics of its units dialed-in for quite a while and this one is no different. The DDX9902S is quick and responsive to your selections. I had no problem setting up and operating the unit without opening the manual, which is a good indication of a well-thought-out control panel and GUI. As features are added, it becomes easy for things way too complicated, but the engineers at Kenwood have done a good job at providing logical and easy to use controls despite the vast array of included features and functions.

Personalization and customization options have not been overlooked either, with various selectable themes and a vast palate of colors to choose from.

I believe that we are rapidly approaching a day where all of our personal electronics will interface and work with each other. This source unit is a perfect example of how amazing that can be, and once you try it, it is something you’ll have a hard time being without. If you are thinking about bringing your dashboard into the 21st Century, you should check out the $749.99 (U.S.) Kenwood DDX9902S at a dealer near you. I promise you it will amaze and delight!

For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

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CROSSTALK vs v . FREQUENCY (Stereo Separation)

KenwoodUSA.com

Kenwood.ca

KenwoodUSA

KenwoodCanada

@KenwoodUSA

@KenwoodCanada

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

Kenwood_134_Dec_Jan v2.indd 2

4k

Hz KENWOOD DDX9 X 902S X9

PASMAG

47

10/6/2015 3:46:07 PM

TEST REPORT

JBL BassPro SL

Amplified Subwoofer System Review If you are looking for big bass, but have no room for a traditional woofer enclosure, the folks at JBL might have a solution for you with the new BassPro SL subwoofer system.

The system is specifically designed to augment your existing full-range speakers and provide the bass response you’re looking for, while taking up virtually no cargo room.

FEATURES The JBL BassPro SL is a self-powered and completely selfcontained subwoofer system that has been designed specifically to fit into incredibly tight spaces, like the typically wasted space under your seat. By designing the system with a profile height of only 71 mm (2.1875 inches) the subwoofer system will fit under all but the lowest seats. Length and width measure 344 mm (13.5625 inches) and 250 mm (9.875 inches), respectively. Included in this compact form factor are a proprietary shallow-mount eight-inch woofer and an incredibly efficient Class D amplifier rated at 125 watts.

Power

125 Watts RMS

QUICK

Frequency Range

40 Hz –150 Hz

SPECS

Bass Boost

0 to +9 dB @ 70 Hz

Input Sensitivity

200 mV to 2 V (RCA) 2 V to 20 V (Spkr Level)

TECH

48

Standard features on the BassPro SL include an adjustable low-pass crossover filter (variable from 50 to 120 Hz) and a bass boost control that can provide additional output at 70 Hz. There is also a 0 to 180° phase switch, so you can listen to it in either position and pick the one that’s best for your specific application. For installation convenience and flexibility, the input signal can be supplied by either a traditional RCA signal or a high-level signal from the OEM system. To ensure compatibility with virtually all OEM systems, a switch provides selection of either 10,000 ohms, or 120 ohms as the desired input impedance of the high-level input. Additional installation convenience comes from the ability to choose signal sensing or traditional 12-volt turn-on functionality depending on the particular vehicle.

An optional wired remote level control (GTO-RBC) is also available to provide level adjustment from the driver’s seat.

Connections are pretty simple, with standard terminal strip

PASMAG

JBL_134_Dec_Jan.indd 1

gold-plated screws for the power, ground and remote wires. The terminals are more than adequate for the low current demand of the internal amplifier, so there is no need for larger than about 10-gauge power cables.

The internal amplifier is a Class D design and has a maximum current draw of less than 12 amperes. It runs very cool and drives a special low-profile eight-inch woofer designed specifically for the ABS enclosure. The woofer is a robust unit with a large 110-mm ferrite motor assembly, weighing in at over 26 ounces. It drives a 38-mm (1.5-inch) four-layer copper voice coil wound on a Til glass fiber former. This moving assembly in turn drives an ABS and polycarbonate cone, which has its periphery anchored by a butyl rubber surround.

The ABS enclosure is very well braced internally and includes dozens of strengthening ribs to prevent unwanted resonances and increase the overall strength of the sealed enclosure. The woofer is also mechanically fastened to both sides of the enclosure, which

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

further enhances the strength and reduces resonances.

LISTENING Okay, I will admit that when I was hooking the BassPro SL into my reference system for the listening session, my expectations were fairly low. I mean, this is a single eight-inch woofer in a very small, sealed enclosure. However, when I begin playing music, I’m quite surprised at not only the output of the woofer system, but also the quality of the sound. I expected a fairly boomy output caused by the small air space, not the nice, tight bass I actually hear.

Sure, the output tapers off fairly quickly below about 60 Hz, but when all you have is OEM speakers, this system will certainly add a new dimension to your music.

I begin with some well recorded tracks by Dire Straits, Rush and Mighty Sam McLain. The JBL system quickly makes me a believer with its unexpected musicality and rich, warm tone. The woofer sounds quite good, with a level of clarity and definition that I had not anticipated. Moving to more bass

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

10/7/2015 10:15:58 AM

Untitled-1 1

2015-09-01 12:22 PM

TEST REPORT SPL VS FREQ

The plots above show the BassPro systems measured acoustic output, with Bass Boost (red trace) and without Bass Boost (blue trace) applied.

JBL_134_Dec_Jan.indd 2 Untitled-2 1

10/7/2015 AM 10/6/2015 10:15:11 1:55:45 PM

Racing

55:45 PM

heavy music, like Yello and Hot Fire, shows me that the shallow woofer can go decently low and reasonably loud, too; handling the built-in amp’s power with no sign of distress or complaint. Sure, you are probably not going to win any SPL contests with it, but in an average-sized vehicle, the diminutive system should satisfy all but the most “enthusiastic” listener.

CONCLUSION If you are conspicuously short on room for a “normal” subwoofer enclosure and have a few inches of space under your seat that is currently going to waste, you might want to give the JBL BassPro SL subwoofer system a shot. The tiny, self-contained system is surprisingly good for its size, and with an MSRP under 250 bucks (U.S.) you can probably afford to put one under each seat! For more information, check it and the other cool JBL gear out online at: JBL.com/new-speakers/BASSPROSL.html

JBLpro.com

@TheJBLpro

JBLprofessional

TheJBLprofessional

For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

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PASMAG

000

10/7/2015 10:15:39 2015-09-09 4:36 AM PM

TEST REPORT

Rockford Fosgate T1S-1X10P

Subwoofer System Review Everyone wants big bass sound, but what if you only have a small amount of space for a woofer? Well, maybe what you need is one of the new Rockford Fosgate T1S Power Series subwoofer systems. Built around the T1 Slim subwoofer, this complete woofer system has higher than typical power handling capabilities yet requires very little space for mounting. The systems are available in a 10- and 12-inch sealed type, or a 10-inch vented system for those who prefer some additional output, which is the one we’ll be taking a closer look at here, so read on.

Thanks to the utilization of the T1S1-10 slim subwoofer, the T1S1X10P system is rated to handle 500 watts of continuous power.

The woofer itself is one of the best slim designs I’ve seen recently, and it manages to provide the output and sonic quality of a full-size woofer while requiring only a bit more than three inches of mounting depth. The performance from the slim woofer is possible because of several unique and clever innovations used in the design.

First, a proprietary motor structure incorporates Rockford’s Encapsulated Voice Coil Cou-

Power Handling

500 Watts Continuous

QUICK

Frequency Range

25-200 Hz

SPECS

Driver Sensitivity

83 dB/SPL @ 1.0 W

Nominal Impedance

1 ohm final impedance

TECH

52

FEATURES

PASMAG

DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

pling (EVCC) technology, as well as a Split Yoke Motor Structure (SYMS). This means that instead of only connecting to the voice coil former on the top side like most other woofers, the EVCC design connects the moving mass to both ends of the coil assembly and also provides a more secure mounting platform for the woofer’s dual spiders. Rather than use a traditional rear-mounted magnet assembly, the T1 slim woofer moves the magnetic motor assembly inside of the basket structure to the inside of the voice coil. This design necessitated the development of a new SYMS to allow the EVCC’s connecting ribs to pass through from the inner collar to the outer ring, where they meet the spiders.

Another advantage of this unique design is it allows the woofer to maximize excursion capability, which in turn increases the power handling and overall output of the T1S1-10 woofer.

Other design elements of the T1S1-10 woofer include a carbon fiber/Rohacell/glass fiber blended cone topped with an aluminum dustcap. The surround is injection molded foam with Rockford’s VAST surround technique to maximize cone area. The basket is a rugged cast aluminum affair with the brand’s Flex-Fit frame pattern.

The tinsel leads are stitched to the spider and receive the electrical signal via a pair of spring-loaded

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

terminals, which are very nicely integrated into the basket. The woofer uses a single 2.5-inch, oneohm voice coil with windings on the inner and outer surface of an anodized aluminum surround.

The enclosure for the slim woofer is constructed of 0.625-inch thick MDF and includes a slot-type port and internal bracing to reduce cabinet vibration. It’s upholstered in black automotive carpet, with embroidered logos. A sturdy grille, trim ring and mounting brackets are included.

LISTENING Since this is my first opportunity to try out the innovative Rockford slim woofer, I’m looking forward to the listening session. I power the T1S-1X10P woofer system with a well-matched Rockford T500X1br amplifier and set the crossover to about 90 Hz. I believe a welldesigned loudspeaker should be able to play any type of music well and simply reproduce the sound the recording engineer intended.

To that end, I always use a wide range of musical styles and genres when evaluating all loudspeakers and subwoofers.

I begin with some music that I think might be the preferred type of music for the intended customer: tunes with high bass content and sustained bass notes.

On these intentionally bass-heavy tracks, the Rockford Fosgate

15_PAS-VSS JEEP-SEMA.pdf

1

9/30/15

10:24 AM

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CM

MY

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© 2015 STILLWATER DESIGNS

C

/kickeraudio

KICKER has a Vehicle-Specific Solution for anywhere your ride takes you.

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Keep your dash head unit, keep the cargo space, keep your warranty, and don’t modify the interior.

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Untitled-1 1

2015-10-01 10:32 AM

TEST REPORT system has good output while playing nice and deep. It also handles the power from the 500-watt amp very well. The bass is strong, smooth and powerful, and the woofer doesn’t add any of its own sounds or artifacts into the music. Then I switch to more revealing jazz and classical music from some of the best audiophile labels. With the accuracy and detail found in exceptional recordings from Telarc, Sheffield Lab, DMP and others, the T1 woofer sounds simply excellent, and I’m impressed with the woofer’s tonality and definition. Chord changes and other low frequency nuances are distinct and pure. I also note that there was a distinct lack of high frequency output, which also served to make the woofer sound more accurate and pure.

SPL VS FREQ

ON THE BENCH With several hours of listening completed, I let the system normalize overnight and move it into the lab for some basic measurements.

A measurement of the system impedance reveals the system has a tuned frequency of right around 37 Hz and a minimum impedance of about one ohm at 10 Hz. The frequency response measurement shows a nice rounded curve with good output from about 25 Hz through 100 Hz. I then removed the woofer from the enclosure to check its parameters separately. I’m happy to report that my measurements are virtually identical to Rockford’s published specifications.

THIELE-SMALL PARAMETERS (T1S1-10 WOOFER)

CO M PL ET E SYST EM O U T PU T, ( WO O F ER AN D PO RT ) SCAL ED TO 1 W/1M

ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS Re

0.97

ohm

electrical voice coil resistance at DC

Le

0.209

mH

frequency independent part of voice coil inductance

L2

0.629

mH

para-inductance of voice coil

R2

1.43

ohm

electrical resistance due to eddy current losses electrical capacitance representing moving mass

Cmes

4140.72

µF

Lces

3.55

mH

electrical inductance representing driver compliance

Res

9.79

ohm

resistance due to mechanical losses

fs

41.5

Hz

driver resonance frequency

MECHANICAL PARAMETERS

(using laser)

Mms

mechanical mass of driver diaphragm assembly including air load and voice coil

213.270

g

Mmd

205.670

g

mechanical mass of voice coil and diaphragm without air load

Rms

5.263

kg/s

mechanical resistance of total-driver losses

Cms

0.069

mm/N

mechanical compliance of driver suspension

Kms

14.51

N/mm

mechanical stiffness of driver suspension

Bl

7.177

N/A

force factor (Bl product)

Lambda s

0.063

suspension creep factor

LOSS FACTORS Qtp

0.966

total Q-factor considering all losses

Qms

10.570

mechanical Q-factor of driver in free air considering Rms only

Qes

1.043

electrical Q-factor of driver in free air considering Re only

Qts

0.950

total Q-factor considering Re and Rms only

OTHER PARAMETERS Vas

12.3840

l

equivalent air volume of suspension

n0

0.082

%

reference efficiency (2 pi-radiation using Re)

Lm

81.32

dB

characteristic sound pressure level (SPL at 1 m for 1 W @ Re)

Lnom

83.23

dB

nominal sensitivity (SPL at 1 m for 1 W @ Zn)

Sd

356.33

cm2

diaphragm area

EBP

39.8

54

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DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

IMPEDANCE VS FREQ

SYST EM IM PEDAN CE

CONCLUSION After all the listening and measuring was completed, I came away pretty impressed with the Rockford Fosgate T1S-1X10P system. It is small enough to fit behind the seat of most trucks or under the package tray in most trunks. Yet, while taking up a minimum of space, it provides full-size woofer performance and sonics. Keep in mind that Rockford offers these in both sealed and vented applications to satisfy almost any musical taste, and the whole package can be had for under $550. When you consider that you are getting a woofer that sells by itself for $499.99, it

makes the system a no-brainer.

If you are tight on space and need a quick, easy and reasonably priced bass solution for your ride, cruise over to your local Rockford Fosgate dealer and audition one of these for yourself. rockfordfosgate.com @rockfordfosgate rockfordfosgate rockfordfosgate

For more test reports, download the PASMAG+ tablet app for free from the App Store.

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2015-10-07 4:14 PM

POWER PAGE

BOOST BX-800

REVIEW

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

It’s easy to take for granted how dependent we are on the energy stored in the batteries of all our various devices. If you stop and think about it, from the vehicle that we drove to work, to our cell phones, tablets, music players and laptops, we really are at the mercy of our batteries every day.

S

o, what do you do when you forget to charge something, or use up the charge sooner than you expected?

Or what if you left your car’s lights on this morning and now are faced with a no-start condition because your battery is stonecold dead? Well, if you are the owner of a BOOST BX-800 all-in-one portable micro boost jump charger, you simply connect it to whatever needs the juice and carry on!

The BOOST BX-800 portable charger comes in a nice case that allows you to carry with you a wide variety of different connection and cable types to power up darn near anything you might have that needs some electrons. The BOOST charger comes with a USB connector that incorporates four

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coaxial-type adapter plugs for devices like laptops, GPS units and portable music players. Also included is a set of rugged car battery booster-cable-style clamps to be used to start your car, motorcycle, tractor, snowmobile – you get the idea.

How is this all possible? Thanks to new high-tech lithium polymer battery technology, you can carry enough energy to start even a big V8 engine in your pocket. The BOOST jump charger has a capacity of 18,000 milliamp hours, or 500 peak amperes of starting current. It also has the ability to provide 12, 16 or 19 volts of output, which allows charging of almost any laptop or tablet, plus it can provide enough current via the USB port to charge any tablet or smartphone.

To charge the BX-800, simply plug in the supplied AC adapter or cigarette lighter plug to the input port. An LED display provides an indication of the state of charge. To charge your smartphone or tablet, all you have to do is flip the power switch to on and connect your device to the USB port using the supplied adapter. You follow the same procedure for your laptop, with the additional step of selecting the appropriate voltage using the convenient pushbutton switch. The selected voltage is conveniently displayed on the LED display.

In case of emergencies, the BOOST charger also incorporates a powerful built-in flashlight that can double as emergency strobe beacon with two different selectable rates of flash.

The folks at Boost claim the charger will retain a charge for up to a year, and it only takes about eight hours to completely recharge from a full discharge. Additionally, it will work in extreme temperatures, where other batteries fail.

So don’t get caught with a dead device or car! No more missed calls or messages, and no more waiting on the auto club to rescue you.

With this compact and lightweight charger, you can rest assured that you’ll have the power you need, when you need it. Check with a BOOST authorized dealer or visit MyBOOST.ca to inquire about what BOOST portable solutions fit your needs. The BX-800 shown here comes with a one-year warranty, and has a suggested retail price of just under $200.

THE FOLKS AT BOOST CLAIM THE CHARGER WILL RETAIN A CHARGE FOR UP TO A YEAR, AND IT ONLY TAKES ABOUT 8 HOURS TO COMPLETELY RECHARGE FROM A FULL DISCHARGE. pigtail ends, each with a different type of connector. You have connectors for almost any Apple device and two different mini USB connectors as well. Then there is another coaxial-style cable and a wide variety of

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e g a r a G s Garry’ PROJECT C6

BY GARRY SPRINGGAY

AUDIO BUILD FINALE We last left the audio build with all the peripheral systems being installed. Once the proximity sensors, Escort STiR Plus radar head and laser shifters were installed, I powered everything up to double check the operation. All worked perfectly the first time, but this is the time to check this sort of stuff, before the car gets reassembled.

Test fit 1

Next came finalizing the location of the tweeters. After almost three days of experimentation, I finally decided on a windshield pillar location, but with the tweeters angling back into the car in sort of “X” pattern, rather than reflecting off of the windshield. I fabricated mounts for the tweeters by combining some parts from the Morel kit with some PVC pipe. The tricky part was getting the contour of the base to follow the windshield pillar surface, but after a few hours of sanding and fitting, they were done. A coat of SEM texture paint, followed by a spray of color-matched SEM vinyl dye and they were ready to mount.

The next big design challenge was to come up with a woofer box design with enough interior volume for a single 12-inch woofer, while also incorporating an amp rack. It also had to be done so that it would still provide enough storage space in the hatch area to

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Test fit 3

remove the car’s targa top and stow it using the OEM clamps. This meant the box would have an unusual shape and the woofer would fire downward, hidden from view. I thought about it for a couple of days and drew a bunch of crazy ideas until I found one that would work. Time to fire up the table saw!

After I had it about 50-percent built, I checked it for fit in the car to make sure it was going to work. All looked good, so I completed the construction and shot it with a coat of gray primer. I was originally going to simply cover the box in matching carpet, but the more I looked at it mocked up in the car, the more I realized vinyl would be a better choice.

The color scheme of the car is black with orange accents, so the woofer box would follow that. I added some orange LED backlighting, an orange trim ring and (just because I had one lying around) I embedded a C6 Corvette

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SP EA K ERS

SUBWOOFERS

PROCESSORS

MOTORCYCLE AUD IO

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age AUDIO BUILD FINALE Garry’s Gar

crossed-flags logo as well. I need to express sincere thanks here to my old buddy Bryan Schmitt, the owner of Mobile Solutions, for his invaluable assistance in rasterizing my graphics and cutting my laser etched Plexiglas, as well as helping me with some of the various trim bits I would need.

I then mocked up the Arc Audio XDi amplifiers and PS8 DSP. I selected these amps for the Corvette because they sound good and are super-efficient. You may recall that all my speakers, including the woofer, are four ohms, which contributes to better amplifier efficiency, less current draw, lower amp temperatures and generally better sound. I also wanted to try out the PS8 because I planned to build the entire system with all active crossovers and I love the vast tweak-ability and easy-to-use GUI of the PS8.

While mocking this all up and building the front trim panel, I realized I needed to add some fans to the amp rack to ensure a supply of cool air. I installed two muffin fans rated at 10 cfm to draw air in one side and then exhaust it out the other. I also rounded over the air entry and exit holes to minimize noise.

Finally, it was time to wrap the enclosure in 0.125-inch closed cell foam and vinyl. Building

the enclosure took longer than I expected, because after it was done, I decided it needed a bit more bling to balance out the edge-lit Grand Sport logo. So, I fabricated a spearshaped trim strip with some bits of oak I had lying around and a small dowel from the local home store. This one piece of trim took a full day to build, finish in orange paint and install!

Once the woofer enclosure was completed, I mounted the Audiomobile GTS-2112 woofer

in it and brought it into the lab for some measurements. I specifically chose the GTS-2112 woofer for two reasons. First, the design is reasonably shallow and does not use a vented pole piece, which is important because I knew my enclosure design would have the motor assembly very close to the inside of the box. Secondly, I chose the Audiomobile woofer because I simply like the musicality of it and I knew it would work well in the air volume I had.

age AUDIO BUILD FINALE Garry’s Gar

Moving back to the interior of the car, I installed the Pioneer AVH-4100NEX receiver with an assist from a PAC RP5-GM11 interface.

I chose the Pioneer unit because I like the way it had performed on the test bench when reviewed earlier this year. I also really like the Android Auto and Mirror Link functionality on top of HD Radio, Pandora and the ability to customize the display just how I want it. The PAC interface made the installation super simple and, once again, everything worked perfectly the first time, including my steering wheel controls. One modification I did make was adapting the original Corvette hands-free mic to the microphone input of the Pioneer, as the OEM mic was already nicely integrated into the left windshield pillar.

Before the console and interior could go back together, however, I wanted to install a few hidden switches for various peripheral devices, including control switches for the LED lighting and fans, as well as manual control of the factory exhaust cutout. With a press of a button, I can take the car from a throaty growl to a neighborhood-friendly purr. The storage compartment of the console was chosen as a good place to add the switches, and while I was at it, I also ran a USB cable for my phone to the inside of the console. This was also the perfect time to install my new MGW short throw racing shifter, which only took about 30 minutes, and feels super precise.

Reassembly of the interior was straightforward and the Grand Sport was finally beginning to resemble a car again! I cleaned everything as I reassembled it and a few hours later the car was ready for preliminary audio tuning. Although I generally prefer to tune by ear, I will break out 62

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my TEF-20 (Time-Energy-Frequency) analyzer, and show you how to tune a car with this sort of instrument, which unlike an RTA, takes reflections into consideration by creating a 3-D look at the sound. Look for this tuning lesson in an upcoming Sound Advice column!

Finally, the car was fully reassembled and ready for a test drive. To check on the effectiveness of the Dynamat, I retraced my original road noise course and measured it again. The result was an astonishing 8.2-dB reduction in overall interior noise! This is roughly equal to

adding over six times the audio power! Not to mention the car is far more pleasant to be in and you can actually hear someone speak at just above a whisper going 70 mph. Successes all around!

Stay tuned for the next stage of the build, where we’ll see if we can get the Grand Sport to 450 rwhp with a few bolt-ons, and then eventually 600+ horses with the blower.

I would like to thank all the people and companies who provided support for the audio portion of the build!

Thanks to: AAMP/PAC aampofamerica.com Arc Audio arcaudio.com Audiomobile audiomobile.net

Beltronics/Escort beltronics.com Candela Auto Electric ceautoelectricsupply.com Mobile Solutions mobilesolutions-usa.com

Morel America morelhifi.com Pioneer Electronics pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA Rydeen rydeenmobile.com

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DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZACH BREHL

INSPIRATION CAN COME IN MANY FORMS. WHETHER FROM FAILURE OR SUCCESS, EXPERIENCE OR THE WILL TO EXCEED – YOU CAN BE INSPIRED TO MOVE UPWARDS AND ONWARDS FROM SO MANY SOURCES IN LIFE.

F

or Basit Mirza, the owner of the RC 350 with the hips (the car, not him), he gets by with a little help from his friends; namely the ones on his team.

“My team inspires me,” he says.

“Everyone on Team Importfest is very passionate about building cars, and in addition to building their own vehicles, they are always ready and willing to help others.”

That’s right, Team Importfest. Mr. Mirza is the man behind Importfest, the largest modified automotive show in Canada. You may know him by his last car,

the 2004 645i Bimmer that was dumped on AccuAir suspension.

If that’s still not ringing any bells, Mirza has also graced the cover of PAS in 2002 with his MAXBOOST Civic hatch. This guy has built a few noteworthy cars in his time.

So, how did he decide to drop the BMW and pick up the new RC as his next project? Pretty much how we all do; brainstorming with friends about what to build and what to put into it. While our conversations usually end with “one day…” Mirza’s conversation ended with “okay, let’s do it.” After speaking with his buddy Paul - who

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“WITH THE RC BEING A FAIRLY NEW PLATFORM, THE AFTERMARKET IS A LITTLE NARROW FOR THE POWER COUPE RIGHT NOW. MIRZA WAS ABLE TO GET HIS HANDS ON PARTS THAT HAVEN’T BEEN SEEN BEFORE.”

was looking to build something new also - about which vehicle to build, the two decided to build not one, but two Rocket Bunny Lexuses (Lexi?). Must be nice.

“I brought him to Lexus Downtown, introduced him to everybody and Lexus Downtown was very accommodating,” Mirza says. “Maybe a few weeks after Paul picked up an RC-F, I picked up the RC 350 and we started building them. We both came out relatively around the same time – about a week apart.”

After receiving the first RC-F body kit, Paul’s RC received wheels, tires and a wrap in that Tiffany teal that’s oh so popular this year. Then he took a step back and decided that next year he’ll come out swinging. I mean, he did just drop all that cash. Mirza, on the other hand, went all in.

With the RC being a fairly new platform, and a more aspirational one at that, the aftermarket is a little narrow for

the power coupe right now. With the connections that Mirza has, however, he was able to get his hands on parts that haven’t been seen before, some of which are pre-production prototypes - a prime example being the supercharger under the hood.

Mirza was introduced to Clark Ishihara of VIP Auto Salon, which does a lot of R and D for Lexus and are very involved with A’PEXi. It just so happens that

A'PEXi’s RC supercharger was on their list. After an exciting chat with Masaki Nakayama of A’PEXi, the one-off kit was on its way to Toronto, which was then followed by more one-off JDM goodness in the form of Aimgain’s quad carbon-tipped muffler system.

The wheels also stand-out, with Mirza’s RC premiering his custom high-polished and brush-faced Vossen Precision Series 310 rollers on Canadian soil. Wrapped in Toyo T1 Sports rubber and housing

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匀䌀䤀伀一 䘀刀ⴀ匀 ⼀ 匀唀䈀䄀刀唀 䈀刀娀 匀夀匀吀䔀䴀匀 吀栀攀 嘀漀爀琀攀挀栀 匀甀瀀攀爀挀栀愀爀最攀爀猀 嘀ⴀ㌀ 䠀㘀㜀䈀 猀甀瀀攀爀挀栀愀爀最攀爀 猀礀猀琀攀洀 昀漀爀 琀栀攀 匀挀椀漀渀 䘀刀ⴀ匀 愀渀搀 匀甀戀愀爀甀 䈀刀娀 昀攀愀琀甀爀攀猀㨀

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six-piston WP Pro brakes in behind, the 310s look like they are made specifically for the RC – thanks to several painstakingly detailed phone calls and messages back and forth to make sure they were perfect when they debuted. And that’s because they were. Mirza says that barring the body kit, the wheels were probably the most difficult detail to hammer out.

“When we got the body kit, we weren’t certain of the exact dimensions; we were kind of guessing,” he admits. “That took a lot of time because there’s a lot of calculations you have to factor in, like the brakes and the added width on the fenders.”

“The time to create a custom forged wheel, as well as the cost was something we couldn’t mess up,” Mirza continues. “We had one shot and it had to be perfect. Leo Mendoza from Vossen Wheels is a specialist when it comes to this; he took the time to measure and calculate the best fitment for the car.”

According to Mirza, when Mendoza showed up to Importfest in person, his words were as follows: “Yeah, I knew it. It’s perfect.” It was originally recommended that Mirza go with 19s, but moving up to the 20-inch sizing really sets the whole thing off.

Far and away though, the most awe-inducing aspect about this RC has to be TRA Kyoto’s Rocket Bunny kit. The way it flows seam-

lessly with the OEM lines is just fantastic. The kit is made up of four overfenders, a full lip kit and diffuser, as well as a ducktail spoiler to top off the trunk. Doused in that fleck-heavy red shade from KC Auto, this really makes the Lexus a stunning lady in red. Although the kit is his favorite aspect as well, Mirza stresses that getting that look was no piece of cake.

“I mean, the body kit just looks so seamless,” Mirza gushes. “It looks like it’s so easy to install, but it’s not. There’s so much cutting involved. It was a huge process.”

It’s a really good thing that he had good people like Alic Kwan of AutoMatrix along for the ride. And from what Mirza tells me, Kwan

“MIRZA SAYS THAT BARRING THE BODY KIT, THE WHEELS WERE PROBABLY THE MOST DIFFICULT DETAIL TO HAMMER OUT.” DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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ESSENTIALS

2015 Lexus RC350 F-Sport OWNER: Basit Mirza LOCATION: Toronto, ON BUILT BY: AutoMatrix, 20HZ Audio CLUB AFFILIATION: Team Importfest ENGINE: Toyota 3.5L V6 (2GR-FSE) HORSEPOWER: 306 hp TORQUE: 277 lb-ft

was absolutely instrumental in installing most of the parts on this car. Cutting and fitting the Rocket Bunny kit, installing the Air Runner air struts and hooking up the Accuair e-level management system, bolting up the A’PEXi supercharger – it was all thanks to Kwan. Mirza says he couldn’t have gotten this car done without the help of Kwan and his friends. It’s super handy that they’re all professionals in their respective fields.

“It’s crazy because I drive the car, but I feel like I didn’t really lift a finger – it’s everybody,” he says. “And that’s the thing: there are builders that actually get dirty and build cars, but I mean for me, I take it to the experts.

I like the professionals and I’m happy that there are so many here in Toronto that are actually recognized and well-known.”

And that leads us to the name that came in clutch for Mirza at the end: “Crazy” Frank. Frankie owns

“I LIKE THE PROFESSIONALS AND I’M HAPPY THAT THERE ARE SO MANY HERE IN TORONTO THAT ARE ACTUALLY RECOGNIZED AND WELL-KNOWN.”

and operates 20HZ Audio Sound & Security in Toronto, and has been a mainstay for many years. He is the madman behind that fantastic trunk build that incorporates the air ride and audio systems so well.

Sunken into the hardwood flooring and illuminated by Oracle LEDs are two Sony amplifiers – one monoblock and one fourchannel – to power the 12-inch Sony subwoofers taking up residence on either side of the in Viair compressors, as well as the two-way components in the cabin. This clean, symmetrical install, along with the quality parts and meticulous are a huge highlight in our book.

Though this build may seem out of mind and out of wallet for some, its beginnings and conception are things we can, as car enthusiasts, relate to. We’ve all spent too much time firing ideas back and forth with our buddies about dream builds and parts. We’ve all spent too much time in the garage trying to get things done on our own and on our friends’ cars.

Mirza has been playing with cars with his friends for a long time and, as he puts it, “as opposed to just one guy having that nice car, there are several of us.” That’s squad goals right there.

ENGINE ∂ Rotrex C30 supercharger ∂ ARC intercooler ∂ Setrab oil cooler ∂ A’PEXi Power intake filter ∂ MAP ECU subcomputer EXHAUST ∂ AimGain Carbon Loop quad-tip muffler WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ Vossen Precision Series (VPS) 310 wheels – 20x9 -10 (f), 20x12.5 +35 (r) ∂ Toyo T1 Sport tires – 235/30 R20 (f), 325/25 R20 (r) ∂ WP Pro 6-piston brake kit (f/r) SUSPENSION ∂ Air Runner air struts (f/r) ∂ Accuair e-Level management system w/ touchpad EXTERIOR ∂ TRA Kyoto Rocket Bunny FRP widebody aero kit ∂ Custom paint by KC Auto ∂ Vinyl graphics by Shinzo Media INTERIOR ∂ BagRiders Zaetech Digigauge pressure display ∂ Weston Flooring wood trim in trunk ∂ Accuair touchpad custom install by 20HZ Audio ∂ Hard lines by Taylor’d Customs MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ Sony (XS-GS1621C 2-way components (4), XS-GS120LD subwoofers (2), XM-GS100 1-channel amplifier, XM-GS400 4-channel amplifier) ∂ BlackVue Wi-Fi HD security camera ∂ Dynamat SuperLite Bulk Pack sound deadening ∂ Oracle Lighting Black PCB Flex LED 12'’ lighting strips - White ∂ Reikken (JB34UH battery (under hood), JB809 battery (trunk)) ∂ Wirez (AMPKS-4 4-gauge amp wiring (2), AMPKS-8 8-gauge amp wiring, CAPDPD-2F 2-Farad stiffening cap, PDS-8 power distribution block) SPONSORS ∂ Vossen Wheels, Accuair, GReddy, Toyo Tires Canada, WP Pro Brakes, Sony Canada, Air Runner, AutoMatrix Auto Service, AimGain International, 20HZ Audio Sound & Security, Chemical Guys Canada, Valvoline, BagRiders SPECIAL THANKS ∂ Andrew (GReddy), Leo Mendoza (Vossen), Alic Kwan (AutoMatrix), “Crazy” Frank (20HZ), Blair Taylor (Taylor’d Customs), Billy Wang (Wheels Collection), KC Auto, John Ng (Auto-Links), Christopher Lina (Lexus Downtown), Kelvin Leung (Lexus Downtown), Harvin Minhas, Navin Pillai, Asim Mirza (Team Importfest)

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FEATURE

BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE HUNTER

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a

Vehicle import laws have been a thorn in the side of enthusiasts for as long as they’ve existed. In Canada, if you want a sweet righthand-drive whip, you have to wait until it’s at least 15 years old. If you’re a resident of the US of A, then you’ll be waiting another 10 years on top of that. By then, the car is 25-years-old and has probably started a family or just finished postsecondary school. That’s just wrong! The laws in the U.S. need to change in consideration of the car. Think of the JDM rides, won’t you, Obama?

I digress…

R ichard P. was living the dream as far as Japanese car culture is concerned.

Enrolled in the military and deployed with the Navy in Japan, he was able to soak up every iota of JDM goodness. Shortly after landing, he bought himself a dream car: a 1993 Skyline GT-R. After having a blast in that for a while, it soon dawned on him that he couldn’t bring his R32 back with him, as it wasn’t the ripe age of 25 just yet.

So, he started scouting around for something else that would tickle his Skyline bone, as well as be legally driven around in the States when the time came.

“I was looking for another car to bring back and I had narrowed it down to a couple older Skylines,” Rich recalls. “I had actually just lost out on a couple Yonmeris

(four-door Kenmeri) when I found this R30.”

More specifically, it’s an HR30 Skyline, which means that it came from the Nissan factory housing an L-series engine. A DR30 has an FJseries motor under the hood, and is a little more common. Originally, the one that Rich had set his sights on was a GT with the turbocharged L20 powerplant, but that had been swapped out for the 3.0-liter Lseries instead. “[The car] was actually from another American,” Rich winces.

“He had bought it off of a Japanese guy. I saw pictures of the car from when the Japanese guy had it and it was beautiful and done up; when I got it – I don’t know what that guy did to it – it was all beat up and the exhaust… I don’t even know if you could call those welds.”

“IT’S NOT EASY TO FIND THINGS FOR THIS CAR, BUT I GO FOR WHAT HAS BEEN PROVEN TO WORK FOR DECADES AND I KNOW IS QUALITY I CAN TRUST MY LIFE WITH.”

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FEATURE

SKYLINE RESTORATION AND IMMIGRATION

ESSENTIALS

1983 Nissan Skyline (HR30) OWNER: Richard P. CAR CLUB: WildCards ENGINE: Nissan L28 3.0L I-6 HORSEPOWER: 280 hp TORQUE: 250 lb-ft

ENGINE ∂ Bored & stroked to 3.0L ∂ Nissan (LD28 crankshaft, 240Z piston rods, KA24E pistons, P90A head w/ solid lifter retrofit) ∂ MSD (6AL multi-spark ignition control, Chrome Blaster 2 ignition coil) ∂ Taylor ignition wires ∂ Tomei (cam gear, 300-degree camshaft) ∂ OER 47-mm carburetors ∂ SK (inlet manifold, heat shield) ∂ TRUST oil cooler EXHAUST ∂ Kakimoto exhaust system ∂ Aftermarket header DRIVETRAIN ∂ OS Giken (Super Single clutch, flywheel) ∂ Nissan (280Z B-type transmission, S15 clutch slave cylinder) ∂ Nismo R200 LSD WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ Watanabe Type R wheels – 15x8.5 -41 (f), 15x11.5 -69 (r) ∂ Wheel spacers – 35 mm (f), 25 mm (r) ∂ Yokohama DNA GP tires – 205/60 R15 (f) ∂ Continental tires – 225/60 R15 (r) ∂ Nissan Skyline GTS-T 4-piston brake calipers (f) Project Mu (brake rotors, brake pads, brake fluid)

BECAUSE OF THE OVERWHELMING L-SERIES SUPPORT IN JAPAN, THE PERFORMANCE PARTS WERE THE EASIEST TO TACKLE.

Rich didn’t really even want an R30 in all honesty, but the price he paid paired with the L-series engine and mix of ’70s and ’80s styling made it too hard to pass up. Even though it was in rough shape, rattled, was super loud and smelled of gasoline, Rich was able to look past its shortcomings and envision something really special coming out on the other side. He says that everything in the car has been taken out and put back or replaced since. Even though he was in the motherland of all that is JDM, getting parts for the car wasn’t the easiest as the HR30 is still a little obscure over there.

Funny enough, because of the overwhelming L-series support in Japan, the performance parts were the easiest to tackle. Even so, the build is a total Frankenstein, but one that will make purists happy.

For instance, the built L30 is comprised of an LD28 crankshaft,

piston rods from a 240Z, KA24E pistons and a P90A head with a solid lifter retrofit. Paired with Tomei 300-degree cams, it’s a pretty potent straight-six. A 280Z B-type transmission with OS Giken Super Single clutch, S15 clutch slave cylinder and Nismo R200 LSD make up the drivetrain. Even the brakes are from another brother: four-pots from a Skyline GTS-T. “I don’t waste time or money on replica or fake parts,” Rich explains. “It’s not easy to find things for this car, but I go for what has been proven to work for decades and I know is quality I can trust my life with.”

“There are some hardships with it,” he continues. “Like, I could definitely use a power window regulator on the passenger side and I can’t find them. I haven’t been able to roll that window down for about two years.”

When it came to styling, Rich

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ Zeal x R31 House Edition coilovers ∂ Impul sway bars ∂ Whiteline urethane bushings ∂ Cusco strut bar (f) ∂ Nissan NOS control arms ∂ Safety 21 roll cage EXTERIOR ∂ Nissan (“Iron Mask” DR30 front bumper, DR30 grille, DR30 fenders, Kenmeri Skyline spoiler) ∂ Vitaloni California mirrors ∂ Fender flares ∂ Painted white & black ∂ Godfather theme air horn INTERIOR ∂ Varis shift knob ∂ Sparco (steering wheel, quick release hub) ∂ GReddy gauges ∂ Auto Meter gauges ∂ Bride (Brix seats, seat rails) ∂ Nissan R34 Skyline floor mats ∂ Custom (gauge pods, rear bulkhead separator panel) ∂ Stripped interior MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ Panasonic (head unit, TS-X 60 rear fill speakers)

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SKYLINE RESTORATION AND IMMIGRATION

GETTING THE HR30 HOME WASN’T DONE BY SOME SECRET MILITARY CONNECTION OR ANYTHING...

has immersed himself in the automotive cultures of shakotan (low car), kyusha (classic car), kaido racer (highway racer) and bosozoku (throwing the middle finger to authorities by way of stance and loud pipes). He borrowed quite a bit from the FJ-equipped DR30, ripping the “Iron Mask” face off of one for his creation, along with the grille and fenders. The rear spoiler is from a Kenmeri Skyline.

Black fender flares jut out from the white bodywork to cover the

15-inch Watanabe Type R wheels – 8.5-inch wide in the front and 11.5 in the rear. There’s even a whited-out headlight, mimicking the popular eye patch fashion accessory from Japan, as well as an air horn that plays the theme from The Godfather.

Getting the HR30 home wasn’t done by some secret military connection or anything; it was done like everyone else, through an exporter, and it provided all the right amounts of stress and miniature heart attacks.

“It came in and I wanted it to go as smoothly as possible, so I had like every piece of paper ever for it,” Rich laughs. “I go in there and they’re like, ‘Skyline? No, those are illegal!’ And I’m like, ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa. Pump your brakes, buddy.’”

Can you imagine hearing that

after getting your pride and joy back home? It turns out that it was around the time that R32s were almost ready to start coming over, but people had been pushing the date to try to get them over sooner, so the border was on high alert to anything deemed a Skyline. Thankfully everything worked out and the HR30 made it stateside to be one of a handful living there, and the only one with this style and engine.

Today, the R30 is about to go into hibernation as Rich is poised to make a pretty big move and taking the car with him won’t be a viable option. However, when he returns there’s a color change and built RB20 waiting for the Skyline in the garage. Can we be invited to the coming out of retirement party?

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FEATURE

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BY ERIC EIKENBERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON MANCHESTER

If you haven’t had the chance, we highly recommend a long walk. No, seriously, we do. Stroll out into the darkness at night, miles away from the nearest town, and gaze up into that sky.

Once your smartphone has been stuffed into your pocket and your pupils have fully dilated, the magnificence that is the Milky Way galaxy becomes fully apparent overhead.

It’s possible to wonder how something of such beauty and vastness came to be.

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omparatively, we’re just dust, riding a slightly larger bit of dust, around a ball of brightly-lit gassy dust. When we gaze at the deeply sparkling hues covering Jonathan Leung’s 2004 VW R32, we’re left with a touch of dizziness, pondering the significance of a stanced vehicle with over 400 horsepower and 458 lb-ft of torque and jaw-dropping good looks, too. We’re sorry; we can’t help the occasional cheesy pun (occupational hazard) so we’re jumping off the cliff now and calling it “stellar.” You can hate us for it later.

What is it that sets one car apart from the others, whether at

a simple parking lot meet or a fullblown judged competition? A guiding vision and seamless execution, that’s what! Admit it. All of your favorite cars have an overwhelming presence where, no matter how hard you look, you cannot find those flaws you’d normally expect.

Leung started his modifying career with a Driver’s Edition MK3 GTI with the underwhelming naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder making all of about 125 horsepower.

The 2003 R32 models turned his head, but his north-of-the-border location and the car’s unobtainable availability made ownership as unlikely as faster-than-light travel. When VW introduced the

limited edition 2004.5 Jetta GLI with its host of special features, Jonathan found the last one in Canada at his local dealer and took it home. Fast forward through five years of car payments and rising premium unleaded fuel prices and we find Leung trading in his trusty Jetta and the VW community for a fuel-sipping Honda Civic, which he hated.

The silver lining in his cloud of reliably-boring transportation came in 2011, when he was involved in a two-car accident.

Civic styling might look like a giant bar of carved soap, but you cannot fault their high-strength steel safety cage. With his Civic

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totaled, Leung turned to Craigslist and searched up a local MK4 R32, already imported. Of course, Leung snapped it up.

“It had a trashed interior, cracked windshield and damaged paint, but I didn’t think twice and bought it on the spot,” he says. “As I drove away, I couldn’t help but feel that this was a homecoming for me.”

FTL drive engaged, warp speed Mr. Sulu! We mean boost, naturally.

By February 2012, he’d decided on a turbo kit.

“The guys at CTS Turbo have been actively involved in the VW community and when they heard I was looking to turbo the R, they invited me down to their shop for a tour,” Leung recalls. “I was really impressed with a couple of builds in their shop and they were willing to work with me to customize the kit the way I wanted.”

THE RECYCLED GLASS LAYER IN THE PAINT CATCHES THE LIGHT SO MUCH BETTER THAN TRADITIONAL FLAKE...

The heart of this star is its Precision Turbo HP6262SP-B T4 turbocharger and its alphabetsoup list of accessories. A larger front-mounted intercooler, a Bosch fuel pump with 550 cc fuel injectors and a Forge Motorsport blow-off valve top off an impressive list of solid engine modifications. The 8.5:1 compression ratio head reducing gasket spacer keeps the 3.2-liter VR6 engine from grenading into expensive paper-weight sized pieces. C2 Motorsports tuned it to 409 horsepower, delivered through a Haldex 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system packed with a taller and stronger European 4MOTION gear set.

“We ran into some challenges trying to fit the European Sharan gearbox into the R32,” explains Leung. “The beefier gear set and longer gears are very welcome for large torque builds, but we realized that the transmission casing on DECEMBER // JANUARY 2016

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INTERSTELLAR : OUT OF THIS WORLD R32

ESSENTIALS 2004 Volkswagen R32

OWNER: Jonathan Leung LOCATION: Richmond, BC BUILT BY: CTS Turbo, PG Performance, Truline Autobody, Velocity Upholstery CLUB AFFILIATION: Dubberz ENGINE: Volkswagen 3.2L V6 (VR6) HORSEPOWER: 409 hp TORQUE: 458 lb-ft

ENGINE ∂ Precision Turbo (HP6262SP-B T4 68AR turbocharger, 46 mm V-band wastegate) ∂ CTS Turbo (FMIC750 intercooler, hoses, air filter, Stage 4 intake kit, CTSR32T4 intake manifold) ∂ Forge Motorsports 008DV blow-off valve ∂ Bosch (044 fuel pump, 550 cc fuel injectors) ∂ NGK DCPR9EIX spark plugs ∂ Headspacer 8.5:1 head gasket kit ∂ HS Tuning gaskets ∂ Raceware head studs ∂ INA baffled oil pan ∂ C2 Motorsports 550 cc tune EXHAUST ∂ CTS Turbo CTS-EXH-MK4R32 exhaust system

the Euro R was made differently than the ones for the North American cars.”

For ride height, Leung started with a set of FK coilovers, which have a reputation for being able to go low, but that wasn’t enough. So, with the help of some friends, Leung turned to the low that only air can provide.

The Airlift Performance Series front airbags and Slam Series rear bags are controlled by Autopilot V2 air management, while two Viair 444C compressors and a polished tank are integrated into the reupholstered trunk, complete with a false floor panel and coiled air hose. Seventeeninch polished Porsche Cup wheels were fitted in rolled and pulled fenders, along with a ground-scraping SEAT Cupra-R front lip. The body is debadged,

with the side markers shaved by Truline Autobody, and following another fender-bender, the signature custom-mixed Midnight Black paint was sprayed. There’s normal blue flake, for a hint of color shift in the sun, and Fisker Silver Diamond Dust, which is actually comprised of recycled glass in the eye-popping finish.

“I really love the custom paint job,” gushes Leung. “The recycled glass layer in the paint catches the light so much better than traditional flake and it gives the car some extra dimension.

This gives the car a dual personality. It looks stock black in the shade, but in the sunlight the blue flake and glass shimmers.”

And just think: this was once a beat-up ride. Now look at it; it’s better than brand new! It goes faster, lower and harder than a

new GTI, while still carrying faultless appointments galore. And Leung is happy to again be at one with his “dubberz” pals.

“The car is very much a product of the local tuning community on the West Coast,” he says. “Nik and Clay at CTS Turbo, Jeff at PG Performance, Patrick at Truline and Tim with Velocity Upholstery aren’t just business vendors, they’re friends and fellow VW enthusiasts. I am happy to say that whenever this car is being shown, it represents the best talents of my friends.”

Finally, after years of hard work, it shines like the star it is.

DRIVETRAIN ∂ Clutchmasters (FX400 clutch, lightweight single-mass flywheel) ∂ Haldex 4MOTION AWD system ∂ VW Euro 4MOTION gearset WHEELS / TIRES ∂ Porsche Cup wheels (3-pc., chromeplated) – 17x8.5 +20 (f), 17x9.5 +20 (r) ∂ Achilles ATR Sport tires – 205/45 R17 (f), 215/45 R17 (r) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ Airlift Performance (Performance Series front airbags, Slam Series rear airbags, Autopilot V2 management) ∂ Viair 444C compressors (2) ∂ Megan Racing adjustable control arms ∂ Unibrace XB chassis reinforcement EXTERIOR ∂ Truline Autobody (shaved side markers, rolled & pulled fenders, filled hood notch) ∂ SEAT Cupra-R front lip ∂ JOM badge-less grille ∂ DEPO M3style smoked taillights ∂ Custom-mixed Midnight Black w/ blue flake, Fisker Silver Diamond Dust (recycled glass flecks) paint INTERIOR ∂ Velocity Upholstery (black leather & carbon fiber-look vinyl reupholstered seats, headliner, pillars, parcel tray, false trunk floor) ∂ TWM Performance shift knob ∂ VW Euro FIS gauge cluster ∂ PODI electronic boost gauge

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t just so happens that Mike Ma, Mr. M2-Motoring himself, was looking for a platform to show off what his shop could do with the help of some friends and clients. The result is this 2014 SEMA favorite here.

“We wanted to build something a bit more intense than our usual style of cars we’ve come to be known for,” Ma says.

A fact which is super apparent when you came face to face with the car. The striking “Tiffany” hue from SEM Products paired with the Rally Innovations lip kit and custom M2-Motoring fender flares gives the usually diminutive Fiesta a much larger presence. The custom high-polish Rotiform NUE wheels are best compared to fancy rolling mirrors. We’re pretty sure we saw some girls trying to take selfies in them at the show.

Populating the OEM locations, as well as a sealed enclosure from JR Customs, is a catalog of high-end Hertz gear. A five-channel HCP 5D amplifier bolsters the 10-inch subwoofer, 6.5-inch and 5.25-inch components speakers and tweeters, all from the Energy

NO SIESTA M2-MOTORING’S FIESTA ST AND THE SEMA CRUNCH

BY MICKY SLINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS BRYANT

It’s no secret that the Ford Fiesta ST was the hot hatch sweetheart of any and every auto journalist on the face of the planet. Open up a magazine full of road tests and you’re sure to find the Fiesta ST, shining with top marks and quotes about just how fun the little guy is. The aftermarket has also embraced the Fiesta, cranking out parts to hone its handling and boost its turbocharged 1.6-liter’s potential. series. In combination with the reupholstered gray suede interior and stellar Recaro seating, inside the Fiesta is no siesta.

Now, this car isn’t all show and no go. Forge Motorsport’s intercooler and blow-off valve upgrade the stock turbo system to handle the extra power the COBB Accessport is throwing its way, while Injen takes up both inhale and exhale duties with its intake and exhaust offerings. Coilovers from ST Suspension dial in the perfect height and fill the gap between the custom haunches and Rotiform rollers. Underneath it all, Whiteline sway bars provide some solid driving dynamics.

It’s a pretty awesome little package, which becomes even more impressive when you learn the time frame Ma and his crew were given to turn this Fiesta around.

“We had one month to build, from start to finish, and little to no sleep,” he laughs. “We were grumpy by the end of this!”

Through some solid time management and calling in some friendly favors, the Fiesta made it to SEMA. If you’re interested to see what M2-Motoring can pull off in more than a month, check out the preview of the Hyundai Genesis they’ve been building for the 2015 SEMA Show at the front of the book – if you haven’t already!

ESSENTIALS 2014 Ford Fiesta ST

DRIVER: Mike Ma LOCATION: Las Vegas, NV BUILT BY: M2-Motoring, BG Autoworks, JR Customs ENGINE: Ford 1.6L EcoBoost I-4

ENGINE ∂ Forge Motorsport (intercooler, blowoff valve) ∂ Injen (air intake, air filter) COBB Tuning (Accessport ECU, rear engine mounts) EXHAUST ∂ Injen exhaust system WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ Rotiform NUE custom polished wheels – 17x8 +30 (f/r) ∂ Falken RT615 tires – 215/40 R17 (f/r) ∂ Wilwood (4-piston calipers (f), 2-pc. slotted & drilled rotors (f), braided brake lines) CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ ST Suspension coilovers ∂ Whiteline sway bars EXTERIOR ∂ Rally Innovations body kit ∂ M2Motoring custom one-off fender flares ∂ SEM Products Tiffany paint by BG Autoworks INTERIOR ∂ M2-Motoring gray suede reupholstering ∂ COBB Tuning shift knob ∂ Recaro seats MOBILE ELECTRONICS ∂ Hertz (HCP 5D 5-ch. amplifier, Energy 10-in. subwoofer, Energy 6.5-in. components, Energy 5.25-in. components, Energy tweeters) ∂ Sealed subwoofer enclosure SPONSORS ∂ Falken Tire, Rally Innovations, SEM Products, Injen Technologies, COBB Tuning, ST Suspension, Hertz Audio, Rotiform, Wilwood, Whiteline USA, Forge Motorsport, Whistler Group, Amsoil

“WE HAD ONE MONTH TO BUILD, FROM START TO FINISH, AND LITTLE TO NO SLEEP.”

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MAD MIKE’S RADBUL FOUR-ROTOR MX-5 STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB LEVETON

Back in 2010, “Mad” Mike Whiddett received a rude awakening.

A champion in New Zealand, Whiddett had seen numerous international drivers make the smooth transition to Formula Drift competition. While his “BADBUL” three-rotor RX-8 was one of the more stylish cars on grid, it simply wasn’t as competitive as Whiddett had hoped, and finished in 21st overall. His goal of finishing as the Rookie of the Year fell short to a fellow by the name of Aasbo, and Whiddett returned to New Zealand to await the right opportunity to return in a competitive chassis.

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AndroidTM and its user interface are trademarks of Google Inc. Wired accessories required for HDMI/MHL connectivity to devices. For safety, various touch-screen functionality is disabled while the vehicle is in motion.

See your local authorized dealer for more details. All logos are registered trademarks of their respective owners.

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FEATURE

BY THE HORNS : MAD MIKE’S RADBUL FOUR-ROTOR MX-5

H F

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By The

ive years later, this four-rotor powered 2015 Mazda MX-5 was the opportunity Whiddett had been waiting for. Over the past few years, Whiddett had mastered the Formula Drift judging system by competing in the Formula Drift Asia series, amassing several event wins and podiums.

Taking the knowledge of his past builds, Whiddett set out to build a 1,000-plus horsepower chassis capable of competing against the biggest builds in the Formula Drift USA series. The chassis, as you see here, has been dubbed “RADBUL” and is one of the most elaboratelyengineered cars on the Formula Drift grid.

What started off as a 2015 Mazda MX-5 was quickly broken down by the crew at Pulse Performance Race Engineering (PPRE) prior to being acid dipped, seam-welded, and then fitted with a Formula Drift compliant roll cage. Since the plan was to drift this chassis without its hardtop from the beginning, care was taken to ensure the cage structure is rigid enough to fully protect the driver and occasional

passenger. Additional tubing was added to triangulate the main hoop with the halo section, and the NASCAR-style door intrusion bars also utilize more bars then necessary to ensure the integrity of the passenger compartment in the event of hard contact.

Under the hood, the RADBUL is truly a piece of automotive art.

While Mazda’s four-rotor engine has previously competed in Formula Drift, the only car to utilize the motor was a naturally-aspirated RX-8. To be competitive in this day in age, Whiddett knew he needed to turbocharge the powerplant, and ended up going with a twin-turbo setup after some careful consultation with Garrett engineers. Initially, fitting all four rotors into the engine bay was thought to be tight, but due to the MX-5’s recessed firewall, which can’t be modified due to the Formula Drift rules, the engine actually sits further behind the front axle than Whiddett’s

previous 20B-powered RX-8.

Even more impressive was the amount of OEM Mazda parts used in the engine build. Although PPRE modified the OEM rotor housings and rotors for optimal performance, the only major non-OEM piece is the custom eccentric shaft. Paired with custom PPRE intake and turbo manifolds and four Mad Mike signature edition wastegates, all airflow has been carefully planned. All engine tuning is handled by a Haltech Platinum Sport 2000 EMS, displaying all vitals on a Haltech/Racepak 1Q3 digital dash.

Style has always been Whiddett’s forte, and this build would be no different. Starting with FD3S Rocket Bunny rear over-fenders, Whiddett carefully planned the body lines and graphics to ensure the menacing look he is known

“RADBUL” IS ONE OF THE MOST ELABORATELYENGINEERED CARS ON THE FORMULA DRIFT GRID.

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BY THE HORNS : MAD MIKE’S RADBUL FOUR-ROTOR MX-5

ESSENTIALS 2015 Mazda MX-5

DRIVER: “Mad” Mike Whiddett LOCATION: Whanganui, NZ ENGINE: Twin-turbocharged Mazda 2.6L 4-rotor (26B) HORSEPOWER: 1,032 hp (low-boost setting)

ENGINE ∂ PPRE (Mazda 26B 4-rotor rotary engine, modified OE rotor housings & plates, modified OE rotors, 3-pc. eccentric shafts, aluminium intake manifold & plenum) ∂ Garrett GTX40 turbochargers (2) ∂ Turbosmart Mad Mike Signature Line CompGate 40 wastegates (4) ∂ ProStreet Performance modified billet merge collectors ∂ PWR (front-mount intercooler, rear-mount radiator, inline water-cooled oil cooler, dry sump) ∂ Plazmaman throttle body ∂ Mechman alternator ∂ Haltech Platinum Series Sport 2000 engine management system ∂ M&W Ignitions CDIs ∂ WB2 wideband controller ∂ CAN Hub modules Racepak SmartWire solid state power module ∂ Fuel injectors (8) EXHAUST ∂ PPRE custom (exhaust manifold, 4-in. exhaust system) DRIVETRAIN ∂ Holinger Engineering 6-speed sequential transmission ∂ Direct Clutches ceramic twin-plate clutch ∂ Winters Performance quick change rear end by ASD ∂ PPRE custom differential cradle ∂ The Driveshaft Shop axles WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES ∂ Rotiform SLC 3-pc. forged wheels – 17x9.5 (f), 18x10.5 (r) ∂ Nitto NT05 tires – 235/40 ZR17 (f), 265/35 ZR18 ∂ Wilwood (Dynapro forged billet calipers – 6-piston (f), 4-piston (r), Ultralite rotors (f/r)) ∂ ASD hydraulic handbrake CHASSIS / SUSPENSION ∂ PPRE Formula Dift-spec roll cage KW Competition 3A 3-way coilovers w/ remote reservoirs ∂ Megan Racing adjustable control arms & links ∂ Wisefab custom steering lock kit EXTERIOR ∂ Rocket Bunny FD3S RX-7 modified rear over-fenders ∂ Autokonexion front over-fenders ∂ Goodwin Racing carbon fiber (doors, hardtop) ∂ Hybrid Lab FRP rear fenders ∂ Mazda modified OE (front fenders, hood) INTERIOR ∂ Racetech RT9009HR carbon-Kevlar seats ∂ Takata Race 6 harnesses ∂ Haltech/Racepak 1Q3 digital dash ∂ Sparco Competition steering wheel ∂ Lifeline plumbed fire extinguisher ∂ Racepak switch panel PARTNERS ∂ Pulse Performance Race Engineering (PPRE), Mazda NZ, Red Bull, Mobil 1, Nitto, Rotiform, PWR Performance, KW Suspension, Holinger, Turbo by Garrett, Megan Racing, Haltech, Rocket Bunny, Wilwood Disc Brakes, After Market Industries, Racetech, Takata, ilabb, Direct Clutches, Brown & Miller, Wisefab, Plazmaman, Turbosmart, The Driveshaft Shop, Autosport Dynamics (ASD), ProStreet Performance, Any Mazz Spares, Hybrid Lab, Autokonexion, Goodwin Racing

for. Up front, Autokonexion front over-fenders provide the perfect complement to the Rocket Bunny lines, while Goodwin Racing carbon doors provide weight reduction and a bit of style. Once Whiddett started testing the car, a few adjustments were made to help with performance. A custom Lexan diffuser now tops the windshield to create an air pocket in the cabin and clear out the smoke, while the original Rocket Bunny rear wing was replaced with a lower profile custom carbon fiber spoiler out back. As with all of his cars, Mad Mike handled the livery design and application, a unique trait that is rarely allowed

by Red Bull.

Always one to pave the way with his wheel fitment, Whiddett knew this build had to uphold his reputation. Working with Rotiform, forged SLC three-piece wheels in 17x9.5 (front) and 18x10.5 (rear)

sizes fill the arches nicely, while 235/40 R17 and 265/35 R18 Nitto NT05 tires in the front and rear, respectively, provide the grip.

Sitting just behind the wheels are Wilwood brake calipers and Ultralite rotors on all four corners, with six-piston calipers in the front and a pair of four-piston calipers at each rear corner.

Suspension and steering modifications are often carefully guarded with drift cars, but we know that KW Suspension V3 adjustable coilovers with remote reservoirs take care of the height, compression and rebound adjustments, while Megan Racing adjustable arms and links handle the camber and caster tweaks. Steering angle is provided by way of a custom Wisefab setup as well.

With the 2015 Formula Drift season coming to a close, Whiddett has already seen some success with a chassis many

felt would never be competitive, though prior to the final fight at Irwindale, still finds himself outside of the top 20. Shipping delays caused Whiddett to miss the first event of the season in Long Beach, and a schedule conflict with Goodwood Festival of Speed caused Whiddett to miss New Jersey, but otherwise, Mad Mike has consistently earned Top 16 appearances and shown signs of being one of the fastest and most stylish drivers on course.

Despite a five-year layoff, Whiddett continues to be one of the most popular drivers, with hordes of fans lining up in the paddock to get his autograph being the norm between rounds of competition.

With more seat time and fine tuning, we won’t be surprised to see the RADBUL land its first podium in the U.S. at some point in early 2016.

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COMPETITION Jacob's Drift

FORMULA DRIFT INTERATIONAL

Facebook: /JacobLevetonDrift Website: www.jacobphoto.com

BY JACOB LEVETON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW BOHAN, NELSON AYRA, JEREMY ALAN GLOVER & JACOB LEVETON

In 2015, Formula Drift created the first truly global world championship of drifting, spanning two continents on both sides of the Pacific. While Formula Drift Asia was lightly attended by Formula Drift USA drivers in the past, the increase in participation this year was a welcome sight by fans. Fans from around the world have been travelling to the U.S. to attend rounds of Formula Drift, and as the sport continues to grow, many fans in the U.S. are looking for opportunities to travel abroad and experience drifting in other countries. We decided to take a look at four events that occurred this past summer as opportunities to plan a future vacation around — not just traveling the world, but going to watch some of your favorite Formula Drift drivers compete as well.

If you’re looking to get a head start on planning your 2016 drift-cation, take note of these events for an amazing 2016 adventure of a lifetime!

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Irish Drift Championships MONDELLO PARK, COUNTY KILDARE, IRELAND IrishDriftChampionship.com Ireland has become just as much of a breeding ground for competitive drift drivers as Japan was at the launch of the sport. With Darren McNamara, Eric O’Sullivan and Dean Kearney all cutting their teeth at the famed Mondello Park, this track has showcased top drifting talent for years. While the Irish drivers are undefeated on their home turf over the past 10 years, several top drivers have come over to take a stab at knocking them off their own podium. Dai Yoshihara, Daigo Saito, Robbie Nishida, Chris Forsberg, Matt Powers and Vaughn Gittin Jr. have all taken turns competing in Ireland, and several other drivers are discussing coming to the track that is said to be the home of all Irish motorsport. Luckily, the mid-season round of the Irish Drift Championships often falls on 4th of July weekend, making it easy for fans to come take in the event and visit the country’s capital city of Dublin, which sits just a short 25 miles away.

Although Ireland may seem like an exotic destination, it’s one of the easiest to get around as a first time traveler. A quick 20-minute cab ride from the airport to the city center and you’re set. Most of Dublin can be accessed via either public transportation or walking, and with English being spoken as the primary language, it’s easy to navigate. If you ever feel lost, just dip into a local pub (there’s literally one on every corner), grab a pint and mingle with the locals.

It’s never too early (or late) to enjoy a pint of Guinness in Dublin!

Gatebil Festival RUDSKOGEN MOTORPARK, RUDSKOGEN, NORWAY Gatebil.no The native land of Fredric Aasbo and Kenny Moen holds a motorsports festival like no other. Often described as Woodstock meets motorsports, the Gatebil Festival is a weekendlong party with drifting, time attack, live bands and some of the craziest cars in Scandinavia.

Incredibly, Gatebil means “street car” in Norwegian, but the average car in the pits seems to be quite far removed from the street-going vehicles we’re used to seeing. Past visitors to the festival include Vaughn Gittin Jr., “Mad” Mike Whiddett and current Formula D Pro2 driver Kelsey Rawlings. While there’s an official powerslide competition that occurs at some point during the weekend, it is far from the highlight, so visitors should be prepared for a full automotive sensory overload beyond your average drifting competition. Just a 75-minute drive from Oslo, this event should be on every gearhead’s bucket list.

Oslo is quite an enjoyable city, but can be tricky to navigate around without a guide. We suggest connecting with some of the local drift fans at the track and finding one to host you for a few days post-Gatebil if you really want to see the city properly.

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Formula Drift Japan FUJI SPEEDWAY, FUJI, JAPAN FormulaD.com Although Formula Drift has held events in Asia previously, including two events in Japan in 2014, this year’s event was the first that counted towards the World Championship, and driver attendance reflected that.

Seven drivers that competed in the U.S. series also appeared in the 2015 event, including championship contenders Fredric Aasbo and Odi Bakchis, joining Japanese nationals Daigo Saito, Robbie Nishida and Masashi Yokoi, among others. As a fan of drifting, a trip to the birthplace of the sport should also be on your bucket list. Combining the famed Fuji Speedway, which has hosted all levels of motorsport, with an event hosting several Formula Drift competitors, seems like a great way to maximize the trip. The 2015 event occurred in mid-July, so expect the same timeframe for 2016, which should be announced during Formula Drift’s annual press conference at SEMA in November.

Fuji is a bit far out from Tokyo, but easily accessible via bullet train. Be sure to check and double check the train schedule, as missing the last train back to town could be costly! Once you’re in Tokyo, the subway system is fairly easy to navigate if you’ve been to New York City, and if not, most major subway stops are manned with English-speaking agents. Grab yourself an English subway map and you’ll be set. Stop by Tsukiji fish market for some of the best sushi you’ll ever have!

Formula Drift Canada AUTODROME SAINT-EUSTACHE, MONTREAL, QUEBEC FormulaDriftCanada.com The Labour Day long weekend is the unofficial end of summer, and while the weekend isn’t as big of a motorsport weekend as the Memorial Day weekend that kicks off the summer, it’s the perfect opportunity to venture north of the 49th parallel and visit one of the most motorsport-mad cities in the Western hemisphere. The former Drift Mania series spawned the likes of Mats Baribeau, Dave Briggs and Marc Landreville, all of whom have gone on to win tandem battles in Formula Drift. Initially launching a one-off exhibition event in 2014, the Formula Drift Canada round at Autodrome Saint-Eustache became a fullfledged stop on the 2015 Formula Drift World Championship schedule, and nine Formula Drift drivers entered the race.

Montreal is easily one of the most fun cities in North America, and is known for its food, culture and friendly natives. Asking a local for their favorite restaurant will not only net you several recommendations, but likely a tour guide as well. Grab some poutine and order a Canadian beer and you’ll fit right in, eh.

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