Driveline Surgery
To address the driveline, BPR fitted a Tilton Engineering triple-plate carbon clutch to transfer power from the flywheel to the factory Getrag transmission. A custom-length driveshaft from The Drive Shaft Shop links the transmission to a factory Supra differential. The differential housing bolts to the chassis by way of a BPR fabricated subframe. The differential turns a set of 18-inch Giovanni GFG wheels mounted with Nankang NSII tires. To keep the Lexus IS300 on track, Allen chose a set of HKS Hipermax II coilovers, while a JIC Magic carbon-fiber shock tower brace stiffens the engine bay. In addition, TRD front and rear lower suspension braces and sway bars assist the HKS coilovers in the handling department. Substantial power increases warrant bigger brakes to shed vehicle speed; therefore, Omega Tech six-piston calipers and 13-inch rotors replace the factory units.
Adding more of his fabrication wizardry to the interior, Mike Casey welded up an eight-point cage that incorporates the factory interior. Sparco Milano seats and Simpson harnesses keep the driver and passenger positioned, while an Alpine IVA-D900 head unit and JL Audio subwoofer round out the amenities. On the outside, aesthetics were left primarily stock, with the exception of a Stillen ground-effects kit.
Raw Power
Strapped to the rollers of a Mustang Dynamometer, BPR’s tuning specialists went to work on the IS300’s AEM EMS. The 2JZ-GTE pumped out an impressive 1,036 horsepower at the wheels and 879 lb-ft of torque without the assistance of nitrous oxide. To let 1,000 horsepower loose, Allen headed out to the New England Dragway to really feel the power. To maximize traction, he bolted on a set of Mickey Thompson drag slicks and laid down a scorching-fast 9.6 @ 154 MPH, off of the bottle.
The import-performance scene presents Allen a rewarding hobby that keeps him close to home and includes his wife, Kelly, and the kids too. Kelly continues to support Allen’s Lexus IS300 project and is an enthusiastic supporter at the racetrack and in the pits. Although this arm wrestler has retired, it seems that he is still going over the top.