MICHAEL JARRETT TOYOTA STARLET (KP60)

SPECS

ENGINE: Toyota 4A-GE, 1598cc, four-cylinder; 4A-GZE block, 4A-GZE forged rods, redtop 4A-GE pistons, custom TRD camshafts, blacktop individual throttle-bodies, distributor delete, MRP coil-on-plug conversion, Yaris 1N-ZFE coils, MRP baffled sump, Tomei headers, ARP fasteners, 0.8mm head gasket, twin Walbro fuel pumps, Megasquirt ECU

DRIVELINE: Rebuilt Toyota

K50 five-speed manual, 3.6:1 locked diff

WHEELS/TYRES: 14x6-inch Autobahn mesh, 165/60 Vitora Citylife

SUSPENSION: Custom front struts, Fortune Auto rear coilovers, Keto lock kit, KE70 inner tie rods, KP60 outer tie rods POWER: 95kW

FUEL TYPE: BP98

NZPC: Why this chassis and engine combo?

Michael: This was the second car I’d owned. My mate was always talking about AE86s but I couldn’t afford one of those so I bought this KP60 instead. I went with the 4A-GE 16V for reliability and because it sounds so awesome with the individual throttle-bodies that are fitted to it. I’m not really after any big power, just a package that’s fun to drive.

What is it about drifting that brings you here?

I actually have no idea; it just sort of turned into drifting. One of my mates was always on about his AE86, showing me videos, and I just kind of got the bug. Started drifting the Starlet with an open diff and original 4K motor — it evolved from there.

Do you have any future plans for the car?

Plans for the car now are to upgrade the gearbox and diff for a better-suited ratio, and just keep sending it, getting in track time. I’m pretty happy with the car naturally-aspirated (NA) for now but maybe I’ll slap a little turbo on the side when I get bored of the NA life.