Turbo V8-Powered Lexus LS400 Drifter Is Pure Insanity

Drift Machine

The Lexus LS is a lot of things. It's a supremely luxurious cruiser, reliable people hauler, and fun-to-drive mileage eater. But one thing we don't typically think of the LS as being good at is, well, drifting. But this particular example, built by Richard and Leon Blackburn, is quite adept at sliding around corners, as we witnessed recently in this video from YouTuber Officially Gassed.

Proper Sleeper

On the outside, this LS400 certainly looks like a beater, with weathered paint, crappy wheels, and plenty of battle scars. No one would ever suspect that the car is packing some seriously heat under its hood. The original 1UZ 32-valve V8 remains, but it's been built to the hilt with a whole host of upgrades.

>>Join the conversation about this turbo drift build LS400 right here in Club Lexus.

Big Power

The biggest of which is, of course, a rather large turbo. Other upgrades include a hi-flow fuel system, extra cooling measures, and custom pistons designed to lower the compression ratio so the newly boosted engine doesn't explode. The whole thing is controlled by a custom electronics setup, and it's good for a healthy 750 horsepower.

>>Join the conversation about this turbo drift build LS400 right here in Club Lexus.

Mix and Match

Of course, that much power would shred a stock LS400 transmission. So the U.K.-based duo ripped out that cog box and replaced it with a proper six-speed manual from a Nissan 370Z. The stock rear differential has been welded so both tires can spin freely together. And, well, it just works.

>>Join the conversation about this turbo drift build LS400 right here in Club Lexus.

Safety First

This LS400 is the epitome of old school hot rodding. Slapped together with spare parts, and likely on an extreme budget. That includes the interior, which is a far cry from the cushy stock Lexus cabin we're used to. In this case, it's been ripped out and fitted with a roll cage and racing seats. Safety first.

>>Join the conversation about this turbo drift build LS400 right here in Club Lexus.

Dare to be Different

It may be ugly, but this Lexus sedan does exactly what it was built to do - slide around corners effortlessly. And for daring to be different, we have to give its owners some credit. If this sort of project is appealing to you, you'll be happy to know that the brothers run their very own YouTube channel with all sorts of wild creations, which you can find here.

>>Join the conversation about this turbo drift build LS400 right here in Club Lexus.

For help with your repair and maintenance projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.