Lexus IS F Powered 1969 Toyota Corolla Is the Perfect Restomod

Track Tested

These days, restomods are all the rage, but we typically only see those kinds of builds being based on things like older Corvettes, Mustangs, or various American models. However, there are also some pretty cool Japanese restomods out there, including this amazing 1969 Toyota Corolla with a Lexus IS F powerplant under its vintage hood. Recently, MotorTrend was able to test out this super cool build on the track, too.

Modern Power

While it lacks a lot of modern electronics - such as traction control or ABS brakes - this vintage Corolla does have newer bits and pieces where it counts. That means the IS F's naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8, which cranks out 416 horsepower and 371 pound-feet of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic. 

Big Money

Tipping the scales at 3,351 pounds, that should result in impressive performance, but this build wasn't terribly cheap to put together, as one might imagine. In fact, MT estimates that the owner sunk around $250k in the build, which is big money for a vintage Corolla no matter what's going on underneath that attractive exterior. 

Straight Line Performance

Even with a somewhat modest output, the big V8 in this small car overwhelms the rear tires, but it still manages to do 0-60 in 4.3 seconds, which is solid if not spectacular. It could be faster, of course, but that would also require some additional modifications to help it hook. 

Quarter Mile

Keep going, and one will complete the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at 112 mph, which are also respectable numbers, though nothing eyebrow-raising. However, it's plenty quick enough - and fun - for a daily driver, if nothing else. 

Handling

In terms of handling, the story is much of the same, as the restomod Corolla completed the figure eight test in 25.8 seconds, averaging 0.73 lateral g's as well. Those aren't mind-blowing numbers by any means, but then again, this old ride certainly looked cool doing it. 

Hell of a Ride

Regardless, our host calls this "a hell of a ride," admitting that it's "disorienting" to hear the V8 rumble coming from a car that was quite slow and economical when new. To us, it certainly seems like the perfect daily driver, and a car that we'd love to spend some time behind the wheel of ourselves. 

>>Join the conversation about this Lexus IS F powered Corolla resromod right here at ClubLexus.com.

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