Gus Rodriguez, Rafhin Mir, Pierce Sams, TWC Media, Gertie Reyes, Caden Underwood, Daniel Swan, Ricardo Jeldes, Shane Nation, Jake Sherbno, Darren Paul, Jadin Fakih, Matthew Wilson, Alex Brewer, John Luong, Joshua Kregeloh, Brandon Hamid, Donnie Roc, Jag Imaging
ART + PRODUCTION
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Queue Gonzalez
PRODUCTION + SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Patrick Dinglasan
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Edward Shintani
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR: Patrick Beltijar
DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR: Julia Neukom
SALES + ADMINISTRATION
DIRECTOR, CLIENT SERVICES: Richard Robles
DIRECTOR OF NEWSSTAND SALES: Craig Sweetman
SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR: Anna Rutledge
Performance Auto & Sound Magazine welcomes unsolicited contributions including stories (typewritten), photos, club news, events, etc. (Forward to PAS, 115-42 Industrial Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 1Y9) Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40069655
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TUNER BATTLEGROUNDS 10 RECAP
This issue of PASMAG is all about some of the coolest cars in our audience - from Tuner Battlegrounds Champions, TBGLIVE winners, and award winners from our Tuning365 shows over the years. On the cover, you saw Paul Sagnay’s rotaryswapped S13 Vert, the winning vehicle from the Tuner Battlegrounds Season 10 Championship. You’ll also find the runner-up from the same Championship in the form of Raymond Tsang’s incredible TCP Magic RX-7 FD3S. Needless to say we have some bangers this time around.
You’ll find both of these features surrounded by Tuning365 award winners from the past year, TBGLIVE winners, and as usual, new products in the industry, PASMAG Tuning365 TV segments, and some fun editorial we cooked up along the way. If you’re looking to enter a future Tuning365 or TBGLIVE event, you’ll want to take notes in this magazine to see what it takes to secure an award. We hope to see you out there at the next events!
As always, thanks for picking up this special issue of PASMAG.
Member
Photography by Gus Rodriguez
HOTNEWPRODUCTS
ADVANCED CLUTCH TECHNOLOGY
Mod-Twin Clutch for LS1/LS2/LS3/LS6/LS7
AdvancedClutch.com
10.5-inch Mod-Twin Clutch Kits, specifically engineered for the LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7.. These kits offer a modular hub system, allowing drivers to choose between spring or solid hubs and either Street or 6-Puck race discs, providing tailored performance to suit different driving styles. The single Mono-Drive hub reduces wear on the input shaft, ensuring consistent and clean clutch release over time. The forged aluminum cover further enhances pedal feel, delivering a more responsive and engaging driving experience. Designed for versatility, the Mod-Twin clutch kits cater to both street and racing applications. With torque capacities ranging from 1,169 FT-LB for daily driving setups to 1,496 FT-LB for high-performance builds, these kits are ready for superchargers, turbochargers, and nitrous. Available in various configurations, the Mod-Twin kits are built for easy installation and compatibility.
GRASSROOTS PERFORMANCE
19-Row Direct-Fit Oil Cooler Kit for LSX
GrassrootsParts.com
Simple installation is key for this custom direct-fit oil cooler kit. A vital upgrade to any performance/track builds for added cooling and engine bay space. The oil leaves the block and travels through an adjustable length of high temperature/high-pressure hoses. Grassroots line of performance oil coolers can be used for a variety of oil types, increasing cooling efficiency and oil capacity. Classic design and proven engineering, this 2-inch thick dual pass oil cooler kit allows your oil to maintain peak performance temperature, also aiding the engine cooling system from heat-soaked internals.
ODX LIGHTING
E-Bryd Series LED Kit
ODXLED.com
The ODX high-performance E-Bryd series is the most versatile and smart LED kit in the ODX lineup. It can be installed as a low beam, high beam, or fog light. It is designed with a built-in ballast and is cooled by the built-in heatsink, making it no bigger than a regular halogen bulb. It is comparable to 6000 lumens per pair. Like all ODX products, the E-Bryd series is covered by their limited lifetime warranty.
LIQUI MOLY
Cera Tec
$32.49 | Liqui-Moly.com
Cera Tec is a high end wear protection additive. Once added to the oil, it protects the engine from wear and tear in two ways. Firstly, it contains tiny ceramic particles as solid lubricant. They are so small that they easily pass the oil filter. They adhere to metal surfaces and prevent direct metal-to-metal contact. In addition to this physical protection there is a chemical protection, too. Cera Tec comes with friction modifiers which smoothen the metal surfaces in the engine.
GARRETT ADVANCING MOTION
GVW External Wastegates
GarrettMotion.com
Garrett’s GVW External Wastegates come in various sizes - 40mm, 45mm, and 50mm, catering to a wide range of applications. From compact engines to high-performance setups, there's a size to fit your specific needs. Additionally, they are available in both stainless steel and V-band inlet/outlet configurations, offering versatility and seamless integration into your turbo system. Boasts replaceable valve and bushing components to increase service life, and a robust design for easy diaphragm replacement.
LIQUI MOLY
Special Tec AA 0W-8
Liqui-Moly.com
Modern engines require ever more modern motor oil, which is why the industry invests a great deal of development work in this area. Hybrids have special requirements in terms of motor oil. LIQUI MOLY Special Tec AA 0W-8 is the company’s thinnest oil to date, and meets the latest JASO GLV-1 standard, as required for hybrid models from Mazda and Toyota.
LIQUIMOLY
TOP TEC 6310 0W-20
Liqui-Moly.com
Just because your Jeep has the aerodynamic characteristics of a brick doesn’t mean your wallet has to suffer! Jeep owners, and any other Stellantis Group car owners can benefit from LIQUI MOLY’s newest drop, the TOP TEC 6310 OW-20 designed for the PSA Group’s stringent PSA B71 2010 requirements. Top Tec 6310 0W-20 is primarily intended for petrol, petrol/ hybrid and diesel engines from the model year 2018 for Citroën, DS, Fiat, Jeep, Opel, Peugeot and Vauxhall vehicles. This low-viscosity lubricant helps particularly small engines from these series to achieve the best possible performance with low wear. The new product masters the balancing act between maximum fuel savings and an extremely thin but durable lubricant film.
PRODUCTS
MXP
SP Exhaust for 2023 Nissan Z w/ Helmholtz MackinXtremeProducts.com
Elevate your Nissan Z driving experience with the MXP SP Exhaust designed specifically for the Nissan Z with Helmholtz technology. Crafted by Mackin Industries, this exhaust system offers a perfect balance of power, sound, and style. The SP Exhaust enhances your Z's performance with optimized exhaust flow, resulting in increased horsepower and torque gains. The innovative Helmholtz resonator technology eliminates unwanted drone and cabin noise while delivering a deep, aggressive exhaust note. Constructed with high-quality materials, this exhaust is built to last. The direct-fit design ensures a seamless installation.
CLUTCH MASTERS
Flow Control Valve
$189 | ClutchMasters.com
The Flow Control Valve or FCV will help reduce shock loads by allowing the clutch to slip slightly during engagement. This is accomplished by precisely controlling the return flow of the hydraulic fluid by selecting one of three control jets.
HOWELL EFI
LS + LSA Swap Harnesses
HowellEFI.com/ls-swap
Howell EFI, a trusted name in electronic fuel injection conversions since 1997, is expanding its lineup with new LS and LSA swap harnesses and components for Gen 4 LS-based truck engines. This includes the 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L Vortec engines, along with the high-performance LS7 7.0L and supercharged 6.2L LSA platforms. These harnesses use genuine GM components and can be configured for both manual and automatic transmissions, with options for drive-by-wire or mechanical throttle control. Whether it’s emission connectors, fan wiring, or gauge sender leads, Howell’s harnesses can be built with the extra length or cover options you need, including OEM-style plastic split loom or nylon braid sheathing.
OPTIMA BATTERIES
OPTIMA Batteries Mounts
OptimaBatteries.com
OPTIMA Batteries’ cases and trays are on their way to shake up the auto industry. This new line of accessories, available in a variety of sizes and designs, will give you more protection and further customization for a wide range of applications, including off-road, drag racing, street rods, boating, and more.
AEM INTAKES
Cold Air Intake System for 2020 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
$372.99 | AEMIntakes.com
This air intake system was developed to accommodate the Corolla Hatchback engine’s factory emissions control devices including the mass airflow sensor and breather tube. The tapered cylinder shaped AEM Dryflow air filter is made from an oil-free, synthetic filter media that can be used for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is needed (depending on driving conditions). The air intake system is easy to install with commonly available tools and it is backed by AEM's Lifetime Limited Warranty.
TUFFY SECURITY PRODUCTS
Console Safe for 2021+ Chevy/GMC Trucks
$287 | TuffyProducts.com
Specifically designed for 2021 and newer Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickup trucks equipped with a wireless charging pad. This safe features a quick-access, keyless entry system with a three-digit combination lock. It seamlessly integrates with the OEM center console, preserving the factory appearance. The console safe accommodates OEM internal lights, USB, SD, and AUX ports, ensuring all your connectivity needs are met. A standout feature is the exclusive lid support bracket, designed to keep the lid open while you reach for items inside, preventing accidental slamming and ensuring user safety. Crafted from heavy-duty welded steel with a black powder coat finish, Tuffy's console safes offer robust protection. The package includes all necessary mounting hardware for a quick, no-drill installation.
HOW DOES FUEL STABILIZER WORK?
Picture this: Your car has been in storage all winter, and it's finally time to bring it out. You get in the car, turn the ignition, and it sounds... bad? Did you know fuel starts to go bad as early as 30 days after the refinery? It’s not like milk where it goes completely off immediately, but it’s also not like honey where it lasts basically forever.
uel
STA-BIL Storage is the quintessential fuel
Photography by Patrick Beltijar
“STA-BIL Storage is the quintessential fuel stabilizer, which can protect your car’s gas tank and the fuel within it for up to two years.”
It will prevent your fuel from getting sludgey, through the use of antioxidants. Just like the human body needs anti-oxidants, so does fuel.
If you think of STA-BIL Storage as the “cure” for fuel going bad in the tank over storage periods, you can think of STA-BIL 360-Protection as the prevention method for keeping your tank in tip top shape, especially with high ethanol fuels. This will prevent water buildup in the tank, and you can use it frequently throughout the year. It’s also helpful for a classic car using high octane fuels to maintain a healthy gas tank.
Check out our video on the STA-BIL product unboxing to learn more!
As seen on
Photography by Patrick Beltijar
Graphene is a scientific development that's been at the forefront of innovation across multiple industries and technologies.
ecently, it's been introduced in chemical form into detailing products, with promising results. Is it just another trendy buzzword? No! Let us explain as best we can. In this unboxing, we crack open a care package from 303 Products which includes some of their latest advancements, as well as some awesome protecting and cleaning options. We also consult the experts behind the science of graphene in liquid form to get an in-depth explanation of how it works.
(f), 335/30/18 (r) + Sickspeed (neo-chrome extended spiked lug nuts Valve Caps, neo-chrome APR carbon fiber rotor cooling ducts) + R1 Concepts Forged Series BBK front and rear - 345 drilled/slotted rotors w/ 2-piece hat, 6 piston calipers (f), 330 drilled/ slotted rotors w/ 2-piece hat, 4-piston calipers (r)
Photography by Matthew Wilson
LOCATION: Long Beach, CA
LOCATION: Allentown, PA CLUB: Slammed Imports
@ricky_jdm_toys
Photography by Ricardo Jeldes
Photography by Jake Sherbno
2020 TOYOTA GR SUPRA JOSHUA KREGELOH
Designed specifically for Projector Headlights, the ODX Projektor Evo delivers unmatched brightness and precision. With LED chips carefully aimed to 180 degrees ensures that 100% of the light shines through the lens—maximizing visibility and creating a sleek, defined beam with a sharp cut-off.
▪ High-output LED chips, comparable to lumens
▪ Precision-engineered for projector lens headlights
▪ LED chips aimed to 180° for maximum light output through the lens
▪ Adjustable bulb for proper light beam alignment
▪ Equipped with an internal driver for optimal performance
▪ Built to withstand harsh conditions (-45°C to 85°C)
▪ 9-30V compatibility for broad vehicle applications
@josh.kregeloh Photography by Joshua Kregeloh
WINNER
Darren Paul 1998 HONDA CIVIC
HORSEPOWER:
WINNER
Winner's Circle
We don’t usually give out Best Team awards at our Tuning365 shows, but the guys and girls of Winner’s Circle Utah chapter earned themselves an honorary mention in our publication because of their invaluable help getting cars in and out, organizing, and helping everyone else in the showcase get situated at FD Salt Lake 2023. We are immensely grateful for their help, and we wanted to introduce you to them.
Winner's Circle JP began as more than just a cool name - it’s a movement fueled by a shared love for driving and the connection between car and driver. Rooted in this passion, the brand promotes all aspects of automotive culture, from grassroots builds to professional-grade performance. What sets Winner's Circle JP apart is its emphasis on the person behind the wheel, transcending the make, model, or stage of a build.
The Utah chapter of Winner's Circle JP exemplifies this ethos, bringing together a diverse group of enthusiasts united by their dedication to the craft. Their influence on the local car community is undeniable, focused on collaboration, supporting businesses, and creating a network of like-minded individuals who look out for one another. While the cars are impressive, it’s the team chemistry and shared vision that drive Winner's Circle JP forward. With a growing global presence, the name reminds us of a community and connection in the automotive world. Thank you very much, Winner’s Circle.
Photography by John Luong
A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TODAYTO A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TO TODAY
Modifying a car has always been about more than just altering a vehicle’s appearance or performance. It's part cultural movement, part statement of individuality, and part of an ongoing relationship between enthusiasts and the machines they've been drawn to for any number of reasons. The history of car modi fications is rich and varied, reflecting technological advancements, tastes that changed with the times, and the unyielding human desire to improve what we have. We wanted to break down the eras of modi fication that brought us to the place we are at now, starting from the very beginning.
Story by Adam Gordon
THE BIRTH OF HOT RODDING
The first known roots of car modification can be traced back to the early 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s, young American enthusiasts began stripping down their Model T Fords to make them lighter and faster. These early "hot rodders" were driven by a desire for speed, and an inquisitive passion for mechanical ingenuity - that, or they were good old fashioned bootleggers of the prohibition era looking to evade the long arm of the law with faster acceleration, higher top speeds, and better handling. They often scavenged parts from junkyards, giving birth to a do-it-yourself tinkerer's ethos that still permeates car culture today. We owe a lot to the ingenuity of yesterday's outlaws.
THE SALT FLATS
The first organized hot rod event at Bonneville was held in 1938, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition that continues to this day. During this era, the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah became a hotspot for speed enthusiasts. The flat, expansive terrain was perfect for testing the limits of modified vehicles when the streets weren't considered a safe testing ground for new and improved top speeds - and stability at those speeds. The race was on to be "the fastest" on the flats. Back then, no one could imagine the speeds that would be reocrded on those salt flats today.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TODAYTO A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TO TODAY
"Word was starting to get around, and a once niche sect of American culture began to reach the mainstream."
THE POSTWAR BOOM
The post-World War II era marked a significant turning point in the extent of available car modifications. Soldiers returning from the war effort came back home with newfound mechanical skills and a penchant for innovation. The advent of hot rod magazines in the late 1940s turned local garage projects into national phenomena. Word was starting to get around, and a once niche sect of American culture began to reach the mainstream. Enthusiasts began to form clubs and organizations, creating a sense of community and shared identity that transcended regional boundaries. NASCAR was off and running in stock cars before the 1950s came around. The explosion of car culture at this time also led to the creation of the NHRA in 1951, as these new enthusiasts demanded new ways to prove their mettle (and metal) in competition with other builders. Motorsport was up and running across America. The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of custom car culture, with icons like Ed “Big Daddy” Roth and George Barris leading the charge into what would turn into the car scene we know and love today. These pioneers transformed cars into rolling works of art, experimenting with radical body modifications, wild paint jobs, and engine transplants. Custom car
shows like the Grand National Roadster Show and the Detroit Autorama became major events, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of builders from across the country. These shows not only highlighted individual builds for attendees in awe, but also set trends and inspired future projects for builders and would-be fabricators. Mexican-American youth in the California area began building lowridersthe antitheses to the popular fast builds in America at the time. These style icons were made to go low and slow.
Across the pond, the post-war Europeans were modifying their vehicles to compete in rally and touring car events. BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and even Fiat became popular platforms for would-be enthusiasts, as powerful engines and nimble handling were in high demand by this time. The British Touring Car Championship was launched in 1958, making it one of the oldest motorsports championships in the world.
In Japan, the nation was finally recovering from the devastation of World War II, and car ownership became increasingly accessible, marking the beginning of Japan's love affair with cars. Evidently inspired by the influence of American hot rod culture, enthusiasts in Japan began enhancing their vehicles' performance and style as they saw fit, developing their own unique style. It wouldn't be long before Japanese enthusiasts invented drifting as we know it today.
THE 1960S-1970S & THE SNOWBALL EFFECT
The late 1960s and early 1970s heralded the muscle car era, a time when American manufacturers themselves embraced the ethos of performance and power that was influenced by the hot rodders and early builders before the OEMs got in on the fun. Cars like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Pontiac GTO came straight from the factory with highperformance engines and aggressive styling. Even with power and performance on tap at the turn of a key from the showroom, this didn’t dampen the modification culture; instead, it fueled it. Enthusiasts pushed the boundaries of these machines, seeking to extract every ounce of horsepower available, and fine-tune their handling capabilities.
In Europe, the '60s ushered in something completely different: The era of the Mini. The Mini's compact nature and relatively simple mechanics inspired a shockwave of modification throughout Europe. During this time, the racing pedigree of Minis was firmly established, with nearly uncountable wins and accolades in motorsport. The simplest amount of modification for extra power or better handling proved to pay off in spades when it came to smaller cars. Touring Car Racing also experienced exponential growth, as the influence of American racing culture and motorsport combined with the allure of European racing to reach critical mass. This led to DIY enthusiasts taking inspiration from the racecars of the time and implementing similar modifications at home. Lower suspension, racing wheels, and of course, lots of stickers. While the Americans and the Europeans were focused on going as fast as possible by making as much horsepower as they could, some Japanese enthusiasts had discovered something they considered far more entertaining: Drifting. While its origins can be debated (Ferrari driver, Tazio Nuvolari being credited as the inventor of the 4-wheel drift, or Stirling Moss steering with the accelerator pedal through corners, for example), it was Famous motorcyclist turned driver Kunimitsu Takahashi who is said to have pioneered many of the drifting techniques we know and love today.
This era in Japan also gave rise to the Bosozoku - roving gangs of street bike hooligans, who soon found themselves styling cars the same way they did their customized bikes. Giant exhaust pipes, wild and wide body kits which included long front splitters, insane paint jobs akin to American low-riders, and loud exhausts are hallmarks of the seemingly lawless Kaido Racer - a term coined by Japanese car magazine, Holiday Auto, nearly a full decade later. Modifications in this style were usually less about performance, and more about
making a bold visual statement. While it represented a relatively niche subsect of automotive culture, Kaido Racers and similar builds of the era still influence the automotive world today. The term "Shakotan" literally translates to "low car," generally referring to slammed cars with low-offset wheels and stretched tires. This movement birthed many automotive styles of today.
The wild and extreme was a constant theme across the world in the '70s when it came to modifying vehicles. Visions of porthole windows, shag carpets, and incredible flake-filled airbrushed paint jobs on big panels come to mind when we think of the custom van culture that emerged around this time. The wide availability of cars with powerful V8s also had American enthusiasts cramming big V8 engines into anything it would fit into. The ability to "tune" a carburetor became more widespread, and DIY modification became more mainstream, at least within the enthusiast niche. For the next couple decades, altering air intake volume and air/fuel ratios would be the only way to reliably add gobs of power to an engine.
The aftermarket industry experienced significant growth during this period. Companies specializing in performance parts, accessories, and all-in-one kits emerged, making it easier for car enthusiasts to modify their vehicles. Aftermarket upgrades for parts like carburetors, exhaust systems, camshafts, and suspension components were now readily available, offering a wide range of performance enhancements for any DIY builders or shops that chose to specialize in upgrading customer vehicles. SEMA began in 1967, and would grow continuously from this point onward.
The boom of available modifications and vehicle platforms led to an explosive growth in car culture as a whole during this time. The appearance of car shows and competitions increased with rapid frequency, and the demand for more and more motorsports events was uncontainable. Countless subsects of car culture emerged from this era, from dedicated dragsters on the street, big-wheel box Chevy "Donks" of the American south, wacky and wild custom built hot rods, and so much more. Low-riders, which began showing up earlier in the '40s and '50s, took a leap in quality, style, and presence in the automotive scene. An unstoppable
A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TODAYTO A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TO TODAY
1980S-1990S: ENTER THE IMPORT TUNERS
The 1980s and 1990s introduced a new dimension to car modifications with the rise of the import scene. Japanese cars like the Hondas, Toyotas, and Nissans became harbingers of the iconic platforms of choice for a new generation of enthusiasts across the world. Civics, Supras, Celicas, Skylines, 240sx, and more took hold of enthusiasts who could look past their small exteriors - especially those who already knew how the Minis of Europe performed with some slight modification. The import tuning scene was characterized by a focus on balance and precision, often emphasizing suspension upgrades, turbocharging, and aesthetic modifications inspired by motorsport.
JDM fever was in full effect by the mid-90s, with drifting starting to catch on in the Western world. By then, Japanese automakers were releasing vehicles so ahead of the curve that they still hold up as potent vehicles today, even in their factory forms - granted, you'll be hard pressed to find any that haven't been modified in some way. At this time, drifting was in full swing (no pun intended) around Japan, be it at the raceways or on mountain roads in the middle of the night, and the circuit racing scene in Japan was booming. The Japanese aftermarket grew exponentially over this time period, cementing brands we know and love today as figureheads of performance and style.
Video games, movies, and magazines all took notice of the potent possibilities of the Japanese compact sports cars, dubbed "import tuners" or "tuner cars" by many. Movies like The Fast and the Furious brought mainstream attention to the import scene in the early 2000s, showcasing the blend of style and performance that defined this era. The impact was global, and the flood gates were officially open, with car culture crossing borders and
influencing enthusiasts around the world. Amid international influence, modifications became borderline ridiculous, giving birth to some of the most wild and wacky body kits the world had ever seen, with car audio playing a huge role in shaping modifications.
Around this same time, Europeans were witnessing the rise of the German tuning scene, with companies like Brabus, AMG, AC Schnitzer and more pushing the envelope on the blend of performance and luxury. The compact VW Golf also became a prime choice for enthusiasts influenced by the rise of modifying compact cars in the wake of import tuner culture's widespread influence. Around this time, European "boy racer" culture also emerged, with young enthusiasts causing mayhem on their local streets in slammed and modified versions of locally available and affordable cars like the Ford Focus or Vauxhalls.
Garrett launched turbocharging for motorsport application into the stratosphere when they released their first ever ball-bearing turbo in 1993, and subsequently showed off its prowess at Le Mans 24 Hours. Turbocharging small engines became all the rage by the late '90s, when high-flowing aftermarket fuel injection became more readily available. Gone were the days of relying on turning up fuel pressure alone - now enthusiasts could really turn up the jam with added fuel and air. Those who were smart about it also got busy with ECU chips, reflashes, and even piggyback control systems. Anything to stop the factory ECU from lighting up the dashboard and throwing a fit before sending a car into limp mode.
THE DIGITAL AGE
As we moved into the 21st century, the digital revolution began to influence how cars were built, which consequently influenced car modifications. Advanced tuning software, much more complex ECUs that needed to be jailbroken or unlocked, and electronically controlled drivetrains changed the game. Luckily for would-be DIY tuners, a wealth of online resources made it easier than ever for enthusiasts to optimize their vehicles with some technical know-how. The ability to unlock the full tuning potential of a factory engine by accessing its ECU for a remap introduced some serious horsepower wars when the automotive aftermarket caught up. While four-digit horsepower was once a pipedream for most street cars, it's nearly become a baseline for what some enthusiasts consider "fast" for any car.
The rise of social media has also transformed the scene as we know it, allowing enthusiasts to share their builds, exchange knowledge, and draw inspiration from a global community faster than ever before. No longer limited by whichever magazines and TV shows were locally available, the flood gates around the world have been opened to endless possibilities and access to aftermarket upgrades. Excessive camber and bolt-on widebody kits with exposed hardware and big wheels had a prolonged moment in the spotlight due to the attention they garnered, for better or for worse. The importance placed on aftermarket wheels is higher than ever, and the conversation about replica parts occurs with increasing frequency.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TODAYTO A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAR MODIFICATION: FROM THE 1920S TO TODAY
WHAT'S NEXT?
Eco-friendly modifications and electric vehicle tuning are emerging trends today, reflecting a broader societal shift towards sustainability. Enthusiasts are now exploring ways to enhance the performance and aesthetics of electric cars, ensuring that the spirit of tinkering and modification adapts to the evolving automotive landscape. As the tuning of EVs and hybrid-electric vehicles expands, we hope to see the same spirit of hot rodding take hold in any new subsect of car culture that it births.
The history of car modifications as we know them is a testament to human creativity, ingenuity, and our enduring passion for cars. From the early hot rodders of the 1920s to the digital tuners of today, each generation has left its own unique mark on the culture as a whole. As technology and tastes continue to evolve, so too will the ways in which we modify our cars, ensuring that this rich and vibrant tradition remains an integral part of the automotive world. Wherever we go from here, we're guaranteed to push the boundaries of what is possible. We'll do our part to keep the hot rodder spirit alive.
SWAPPED, CHOPPED, DROPPED AND
Paul Sagnay’s Rotary S13 Vert Breaks the Mold and Wins
Tuner Battlegrounds 10
Story by Adam Gordon // Photography by Gus Rodriguez
There is a segment of automotive culture nestled in Japan that believes in rotary supremacy. Swapping any variation of rotary engine into any mismatched sports car is a regular thing for these guys, and they’ve been at it for decades. Over time, that idea spread across the world, including some enthusiasts in America. Tuner Battlegrounds season 10 winner and friend of PASMAG, Paul Sagnay, is one of those enthusiasts - and he’s gone the distance to bring that particular flavor of JDM tuning to American roads.
The S13 Vert you see here is actually a 240sx coupe, despite its RHD steeringthat part was a conversion addition by Paul in order to maximize modification, and also to truly embrace the JDM heritage of his build idea. Following that ethos, the build is assembled with quality parts from front to back, including a handful of rare period-correct pieces we’re a little jealous of - carbon fiber Ganadors and the Nismo LMGT-2 wheels are among the immediately
noticeable, but it doesn’t stop there. Bee-R goodies on the inside, Blitz / URAS collab parts, and of course, the Spirit-Rei Odyvia kit - the rare little details keep on coming.
Beautiful build and show-presence aside, the star of this vehicle - other than its bright pink paint job - is the incredible semi-peripheral ported 13B REW rotary swap, revealed cheekily by the car’s lack of a hood, and centered in frame nicely by custom paintwork and polished components. Bolstering the 13B’s output is a Borg Warner S476 SXE 76/82 turbocharger churning up 32 psi, adding airflow with an intake manifold from a Mazda Cosmo which has been machined and port-matched for the semi-peripheral port. Mating
“There is so much to take in with this engine build, we invite you to browse the spec list to see the magic.”
the 13B to the transmission from the same donor is the job of an ACT XT-6 puck clutch and flywheel package. There is so much to take in with this engine build, we invite you to browse the spec list to see the magic. The combination of high-end components and rare JDM parts come together in harmony for a special rotary build. Tuned by Angel
SWAPPED, CHOPPED, DROPPED AND
ESSENTIALS
1993 Nissan 240sx
ENGINE
13B REW 93+ RX7 block + Mazda
GSL-SE Timing Cover and oil pan
+ Semi-Peripheral Port housings
+ Dynamic balanced rotating assembly + Extended street port machining + 9.4:1 rotors
+ RX8 high power (eccentric shaft, stationary gears) + 10mm ARP Tension Studs + Rotary Aviation apex seals + Mazda Cosmo 13B RE port matched intake manifold
+ Improved Racing High-Flow Engine & Transmission oil cooler thermostat + BMW electric water pump conversion + JDL MFG (billet throttle body adapter, water adapter, side mount alternator conversion, oil cap) + Full Function Engineering trigger kit + Atkins Rotary pulley kit + Chase Bays/Wilwood (brake and clutch master kit, brake booster delete, brake bias) + Steveos Kustoms shaved and tucked engine bay w/ custom air brush and House of Kolor paint
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION CageKits tube front end powder coated super chrome + Custom Street Faction Engineering TIG welded front subframe + Custom power brace from Kaiju Fab + Parts Shop Max (Competition coilovers w/ air ride conversion, lower control arms (f/r), tension rods, toe rods, subframe risers, Limit Break camber/KPI lockout adjustable front kits) + Air Lift Performance 3P air management + Voodoo13 billet Rear Upper Control Arms and eccentric bolt kit
+ House of Kolor custom paint w/ Painthuffer metal flake + Ganador carbon fiber mirrors + DMAX LED tail lights + S13 coupe door conversion w/ shaved body line
+ Bee-R Japan (steering wheel, racing hub tilt, horn button autographed by Imai-San, carbon fiber door panels) + Bride (Zeta III carbon fiber seats, seat rails) + Takata pads and harness + Del Duca’s Upholstery Plus interior black suede and pink stitched reupholstery + Blitz / URAS boost controller, power meter and turbo timer + Veilside shift knob + URAS shift boot + Final Konnexion drift button + RE-Amemiya FD3S short throw shifter + Custom chassis harness
AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS
Optima Yellow Top battery
SPONSORS
Angel Motorsports, TDMI US, Parts Collective, Advanced Clutch Technology, Boosted Adrenaline, Dress Up Bolts, Lowered Lifestyle, Del Duca’s Upholstery, Powdercoat Express, Steveos Kustoms, Optima Battery
SWAPPED, CHOPPED, DROPPED AND
Motorsports, the final output was 730 whp and 495 lb-ft of torque. How he intends to put that power down with so much camber, we’ll never know.
Sagnay’s rotary S13 was a true labor of love, and it took a couple years before it was truly ready to drive to and from the shows. Now that it’s ready to show, we can all appreciate the incredible craftsmanship. Everything from the off-brand engine swap, the unique exterior, the RHD conversion to complete the beautiful interior transformation, and everything in between right down to the hardware, Sagnay’s build is one for the ages, and it’s no surprise that this machine won him a Tuner Battlegrounds Championship title.
Being able to build and drive your personal dream car is something that few enthusiasts ever get to experience. It’s a feeling like no other to complete several years of work, changes, and aesthetic details to finally have your real deal dream car on the road. For Tuner Battlegrounds Season 10 runner-up, Raymond Tsang, this nearly lifelong dream turned into a reality after countless hours - and dollars - and as massive fans of the FD RX-7, we’re a little bit envious of this one.
Story by Adam Gordon // Photography by Rafhin Mir (@_rafhin), Pierce Sams (@disi.shot)
Tsang’s dream of a last generation RX-7 started when he was just a boy at 11 years old, with posters and Hot Wheels versions of his car. As he grew older, the vision for his dream build became more refined, with a love for aggressive functional aero and time attack aesthetics forming his style. When he finally took possession of his prized FD, he quickly got to work. Among the first, and most immediately noticeable transformations to the FD, was the timeless TCP Magic V3 widebody kit.
Complementing the aero kit is a high quality smorgasbord of pieces: RE-Amemiya hood, Seibon carbon fiber doors and trunk, Voltex wing, and Car Shop Glow duck tail and diffuser combo. The hood and fenders were treated to some custom work with RGN carbon fiber vents, which work exceptionally well with the car’s overall time attack look. The Advan RZ-F2 wheels are the icing on the cake, with enough viewing window to the AP Racing big brake kit. Even at a standstill, the quality of parts and workmanship on this RX-7 is evident.
The 13B under the hood is relatively simple, yet potent. It’s a street ported 13B done by Mazdeez, with a Garrett GT3582R boosting its airflow and output. The racecar cool factor continues in the engine bay with the V-mount intercooler and rad setup, and the signature rotary brap is echoed through a custom 3-inch exhaust and HKS Carbon Ti muffler, when it’s not screaming out of the dual TiAL wastegates.
Inside and out, Tsang’s RX-7 is a real life version of the dream he had when he was 11, with authentic quality parts making up the cockpit, the engine bay, and the silhouette of this iconic Japanese coupe. His love for the golden era of JDM tuners led him down a path of quality parts and timeless styling, and his FD is one of our favorites because of it. As you might imagine, he’s taken home countless awards and accolades from events across North America - including the Runner-Up title in PASMAG’s Tuner Battlegrounds Season 10.
ESSENTIALS
1993 Mazda RX-7
DRIVER › Raymond Tsang
LOCATION › Mississauga, ON, Canada
HORSEPOWER › 400 whp CLUB › Endgame.TM
SOCIAL MEDIA @tcp_fd3s
ENGINE Street port 13B by Mazdeez
+ Garrett GT3582R single turbo conversion + Custom V-mount intercooler + TIAL (blowoff valve, dual wastegates) + HKS boost controller + Apexi power fc
