Dax's JDM Nissan 180SX

Admittedly, it's been a long time since I've done a shoot for myself. I'm usually trying to cater my content for publication, and not that it compromises my work, but it feels good to just hang out and not have to worry about a spec sheet. My friend Dax recently purchased this imported JDM 180SX from a dealer in Orlando and hit me up about some pictures, knowing that it was right up my alley. It's over the top '90s Japanese drift style. From the mild wheel wheel fitment, to the over-the-top aero, to a dozen other touches, this thing is a time capsule for those in the know. 

When Dax picked the car up, the seller told him that the wheels were likely unbranded replicas and that he'd do better to just toss them. When he got the car home and in the air, a little internet sleuthing revealed that they were in fact a set of three-piece Speed Star Dupond wheels (now SSR). He took them apart, polished the lips, and had the centers powdercoated white. I think the results speak for themselves. 

The aero around the 180SX is a combination of classic JDM drift brands, including Bomex, one of the biggest names in the 1990s and early 2000s body kit fad. 

One of the coolest parts of the car was the installation of a loudspeaker system, visible through the air inlet in the bumper. Wild details like this are what JDM imports are all about.

The interior of the car was standard drift-spec fare with a single Recaro, Personal steering wheel, and gauges to monitor various performance stats. There was also a period-correct mini-Disc player, with a single Japanese album filled with what could be the worst music I've ever heard. 

This Nissan is powered by the venerable SR20DET, putting down a little over 200hp to the wheels. I got a quick ride and can assure everyone that it pulls plenty hard. 

Dax has a few plans in store for the 180, so I'm sure I'll be revisiting in the future. Even left alone though, this car is perfect how it sits, as a survivor from a time that has come and gone. Details galore, without being in your face. Different without distraction.