How does a little Toyota Corolla hatchback, a ton of Holden Commodore parts, an LS engine that certainly didn’t come from the factory, and a youth mentorship program combine into a package that works? It is an odd relationship, ain’t it? On one hand, supporting kids who might have difficulties learning, or have other issues going on in their lives is a noble cause, one that will take time, focus, and a lot of work to do properly. By comparison, treating the Corolla to the gas-axe treatment to shoehorn an extra four cylinders under the hood might actually be the easier of the two separate subjects. Combine two programs, and you have the opportunity to take some kids who could use some focus and give them something to focus on.
Josh and Nigel operate the Bumpstop Car Mods and Mentoring program, which is part of a non-profit organization, and they use the car as a kind of centering point that starts up the conversations that need to be held. The car itself was a misfiring, old crapcan that had the usual ’90s peeling clearcoat and overall run-down feel to it. After literally putting the Corolla on it’s lid, the car was converted to rear-wheel-drive via parts removed from a VY-era Commodore. The 5.7L LS1 and 4L65E transmission managed to fit after the firewall was kicked back almost eight inches to make room. At the wheels, it’s pushing about 315 horsepower, which has to be wild in a car this size.
Reportedly, they’ve promised the kids that they will have a ten-second car. Right now the Corolla has made a 13.1 second lap, so next for the car? Twin turbos. Get to work, kids!
Body by White good Appliances. Heart by GM.