2002 IS300 Goes 1JZGTE for More Scoot Scoot
Nic Michuda had to wait a long time to realize his dreams of going sideways in style. But the results were worth the wait.
Amazing Story
The story of this build and its owner is just as amazing, if not more so, as the the build itself. Nic Michuda was fascinated by drifting at an early age. And there was one car in particular that captured his imagination as a youngster, and that was a Toyota Soarer drifter manned by the venerable Takahiro Ueno. He saw the car at a D1 event, equipped with a myriad of Vertex aero bits, and he was immediately obsessed.
Photos: SuperStreet
On the Sidelines
As much as he wanted to participate, though, Michuda was nothing more than an onlooker, while his friends shredded tires on the tarmac. He was attending grad school in Chicago at the time and made his money as a teacher assistant. His opportunity to get in the game came when he bought this Lexus IS, in less-than-stellar shape, from a friend in Los Angeles. The car was lowered and showed more than a few battle scars. It even had some mismatched panels.
Photo: Caitlinshoots.com
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
Starter Build
But Michuda continued to work and spend nearly every penny he saved to slowly add parts and build it up throughout his time in school. In the meantime, he was also gaining experience behind the wheel. Once his was done with school, he moved to San Jose, CA, and that's where his love for going sideways really flourished.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
Rubbing Elbows
He even had the chance to meet and speak with Takahiro Ueno when he made a relatively unprepared trip to Grange. He showed the drift legend his Vertex-equipped Lexus, which caught the eye of Ueno, and helped secure him some sponsorship from Vertex in the years to come.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
More Power
After a few happy years, though, it was eventually time for a power upgrade. Out went the 2JZ and its place, Michuda opted for a turbocharged 1JZ-GTE. Unfortunately, the first engine was unsuccessful. But with the help of some friends, Michuda was able to source a second motor. He was able to complete the 1.5-year swap just in time for an appearance at Super D. Sadly when he got there, the engine decided not to cooperate.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
Engine Woes
He had it sent to Rival Auto in Los Angeles to help tune it up and get it ready to go. Additionally, he threw in a few more power upgrades under the hood, ensuring the Lexus has reliable grunt, and plenty of it. With the engine sorted out, it was time to give the car a look to match its capability. The beautiful Deep Crystal Blue Mica Mazda hue complements the body kit perfectly, and giving the Lexus a menacing, yet elegant look.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
Sport and Luxury
The interior matches the pizzazz and sporty feel of the exterior. And while the Lexus IS serves as a drift car for Michuda, it still maintains all of its creature comforts, making it easy to drive around town on occasion. The Vertex steering wheel serves as the centerpiece of the cabin.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
Back to Illinois
Michuda is happy with the current state of the build, but the car won't be staying in California for long. He's shipping it back to Illinois so he can have a fun ride at his disposal when he's back there. In the meantime, he's in the process of building that Soarer he's always dreamed of going sideways in.
>>Join the conversation about this IS300 with a 1JZGTE swap right here in Club Lexus.
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