Taking a Look Back at a D1GP SC430 (Photos)
It's always nice to look back down memory lane at the things that once were. This time, we look back at the infamous 2007 Lexus SC430 that was once running around the D1 Grand Prix drift scene.
1. SC430 Legend
Toshiki Yoshioka is a professional drifter from Japan. He's known for his red 2007 Lexus SC430, in which he drove to win both the D1GP and the Formula D series. The legendary Lexus did not start like this, however, and Yoshioka was involved in the build from the beginning until its current status.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
2. Initial Steps
The initial steps in the 2007 Lexus SC430 build started with stripping down the exterior to bare metal, as well as focusing on making the chassis stiffer to allow for tight drifting. Before fabricating a custom roll-cage for the Lexus, Yoshioka and his team welded extra parts to the frame, making it much stronger, more durable, and all-in-all stiffer. Shortly after, the exterior was bathed in a neutral light gray paint.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
3. Interior
The interior was next in line for a full overhaul. The team installed red Recaro bucket seats with safety harnesses for both the driver and the passenger, and most of the original interior was removed to shed some pounds off of the Lexus. The dashboard, center console, and the pedals were all replaced with Droo-p custom ones, and the original steering wheel is long gone with a Works Bell steering wheel in its place. Finally, the team equipped this drift car with paddle shifters, hydraulic handbrake, and HKS gauges with digital dash display.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
4. Suspension, Wheels, & Tires
Given this SC430 is a drift car, the suspension system had to be completely reworked. Now the Lexus has a set of D1GP-spec DG5 coilovers, Espelir springs, and Droo-p custom arms and bushings; allowing Yoshioka to push this car far past its original limits. Complementing the top-notch suspension is a set of Gram Lights 57 Accelerate Pro wheels, with 19x9.5 +22 offset in the front, and 19x10 +10 offset in the rear. Wrapped around the aftermarket wheels is a set of Yokohama Neova AD08 tires, making this Lexus officially a drift car. The team equipped the Lexus with Project Mu four-piston big brake kit all around.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
5. Transmission
Working together with the insanely-modified engine is a six-speed sequential transmission from a 1999 JGTC Supra Xtrac. The team also equipped the drivetrain with ORC twin-plate clutch, as well as ARS carbon two-way LSD. This was the perfect addition to the very powerful engine, which played a huge role in giving this SC430 a legendary status.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
6. Engine
Custom built by Prime Garage, this Lexus has a 3S-GT engine with a JUN Auto 2.2-liter stroker kit and ported cylinder head. The engine is equipped with TODA Racing 272-degree intake and exhaust camshafts, as well as HKS valve springs and cam gears. Taking the engine to the next level, the team installed a GT3240 turbocharger, blow-off valve, and boost controller; which collaborate with the 1000cc fuel injectors to make this SC430 develop 592-horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque at 5,600 rpm.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
7. Exterior
The one-of-a-kind exterior is courtesy of Tom's SC50 body kit with the dry carbon hood. On the back, the SC430 is equipped with a Gram Lights rear spoiler. Also assisting in the making this drift car light are K's FRP Factory carbon doors. Finally, the Droo-p custom FRP headlight covers and the custom paint and graphics have become well-known in the automotive drifting community.
>>Join the conversation about the D1GP SC430 right here in the Club Lexus Forum!
For help with service of your car, check out the how to section of ClubLexus.com