“I LOVE GOOLLLLD!” Not only a popular catch phrase coined by Austin Power’s wacky arch nemesis, but this phrase can also be used to describe Dan Brashear’s vision for his 1992 MR2. Now you may be saying to yourself, “The only thing gold on this car are the wheels”, but I say, “Au contraire!” What you don’t realize is all the extraneous goodies on this gorgeous MR2 are worth more than any rare, precious metal. With 320+whp on tap, this MR2 smokes the competition. Sitting shotgun in this MR2 will put a larger smile on any man’s face than all the smelting one could imagine.
Sparkling like a gem in the sunlight, this MR2’s exterior sports Graphite Grey Pearl, a Lexus factory paint color; however they beefed up the flake and pearl which makes this thing shimmer more than Goldmember’s sequined blouse. Needless to say, gold, has gone a bit out of style, which is why Dan chose to mix it up with a little bit of JDM bling. Most obvious, are the Bomex front bumper and side skirts and Volk GT-N wheels. A Toms rear bumper and a 98 MR2 spoiler finish up the aggressive styling.
Comparing the engine bay to anything other than platinum would be a sin. This MR2 actually just returned from a visit with the doctor. No, not the proctocologist, this doctor would be more like the equivalent of a plastic surgeon. Dissecting the engine and giving it a more youthful, more hip character. First on the list was an extensive “turboectomy,” replacing the CT26 turbo with a T/3 T/4 50/63 Trim Turbo. With the added power from the turbo, Dan thought an “injectorplasty” was needed. 550cc injectors and a Walbro fuel pump help to boost this MR2’s confidence. What’s plastic surgery without a little “butt lift?” Dan chose to redo this things rear with dual Greddy Power Extreme Exhausts. To finish off the surgery, a full engine makeover was needed. HKS cams, a HKS BOV, an ACT clutch, titanium valve springs, and a custom downpipe from Autolab are just a few of the tweaks made.
Not to be ignored, the interior is decked out with plenty of electronic jewels. An A’PEXi turbo timer ensures that this MR2 gets noticed, as it has passing admirers in the parking lot yelling, “Hey, you forgot to turn your car off!” A Blitz boost controller, GReddy boost gauge, GReddy EGT gauge, Panasonic touch screen CD player, and Infinity Kappa component speakers round up the rest of the I.C.E.
Being that I began with an Austin Power’s quote I feel it’s necessary to end with one as well. If this lil’ treasure of an MR2 could talk, I have the feeling it would use the profound words of the one and only Fat Bastard…”I’m dead sexy!” And I for one would have to agree!
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