I like my steak like I like Matt’s wheel fitment: Meaty & Beefy! Back for this week’s feature is a JDM wagon; a Subaru WRX wagon that is (a first on Avantturous Blog Entry feature!)
It’s hard not to miss this specific WRX wagon: one look and you know that it’s packing some punch under the hood; especially when it sports those wide 265s all around to put some traction down. While it almost looks “stock” under the hood, Matt’s wagon has a twin scroll turbo; complete with supporting hardware upgrade. STI 6-speed transmission made its way to replace the factory 5-speed. Steering rack was also upgraded with one from an STI. What’s power without traction? In order to fit those 265s, Matt went wide with STI front fenders and sedan rear conversion. Matt perfected the exterior appearances by swapping the hood scoop with one from an STI and a JDM wagon front lip. The wagon was then lowered on coilovers and a set of Advan RZ II wheels wrapped with Kumho Ecsta PS91 tires were chosen to complete the exterior. The only addition made to the interior was STI driver’s side seat. 100% all business,no BS… no frills…
In Matt’s own words, WRX wagon with STI widebody conversion is pretty much reaching the God-level in the Subaru community. With a look that kills, backed with power that bites and wide grip to put those power down on the ground, I think Matt wasn’t wrong about being at the top of the food chain! Next on the list is meatier tire setup! Wowww!!! BRB, going to be on my way to the market to buy some rib-eye steak to grill!
Introduce Yourself:
My name is Matt, So-Cal resident, Born and raised.
For the past 10 years, I have been following my passion as a “graphic designer” or digital illustrator,
Currently serving a melting pot of industries; but mainly in the street wear apparel & merchandise field.
WHY A WAGON?
I’ve always a blob eye Subaru in some way shape or form. Something All-Wheel-Drive, Turbo and FUN. The perfect balance in between the Bug-Eye & Hawkeye model, combined with favorite body style meshed together was a no-brainer for me.
What inspired you to get a WAGON in the first place?
I was mainly inspired by older Volvo Wagons and hatchbacks when I was younger. It wasn’t until I was older when I realized not too many sportier wagons were being made. On top of that, not many people prefer modding the Subaru wagon models for whatever reason.
Did you consider a different WAGON instead of this one?
I did consider very heavily getting into a Lexus IS sport wagon. Those things are sweet!
What was your original objective with your car and has that objective changed?
My original objective for the wagon was to have a fun reliable daily driver and learn the basic maintenance along the way, I wanted to enjoy what the platform can offer. .
What style would you say best describes your car?
Style I would say is OEM+. More grip orientated., I like’em wide.
Who assisted in the planning/building/modding of your car?
Planning is mainly done by myself going down JDM wormholes for months, Engine building on the other hand I have to givea huge shout-out to my brother Eddawg Built @eddawg_built. He is solely responsible for all major mechanical work done. I would’ve gone through 2-3 engines if it wasn’t for his presence, A true Subaru wizard.
What do you feel makes your car unique / special in your eyes?
The JDM twin scroll turbo conversion I feel makes my car unique. Not many Subaru run a twin scroll due to the dollar per horsepower bargain. I understood the conversion isn’t a high horse power setup, but in return I get amazing boost/ torque response. 23 twin scroll pounds of boost does the job. Shout out to Henry @hc_tuned for blessing me with a solid tune.
If you could pick one thing you aren’t satised with about your car, what would it be?
Right now im in no rush for perfection, but like any 20 year old car that gets driven, I would like it to get a full body overhaul and O.E.M paint. Maybe more tire meat?
What is your favorite part/feature/function of the car?
Without a doubt the sedan rear conversion is my favorite feature, All metal, none of that glue and plastic junk. I also still can’t believe I found an authentic JDM wagon front lip, that’s cool. Swapping the 6-speed and STi steering rack into the wagon has been the largest leap in performance difference from stock, this would have to make it my two favorite functional parts on this setup.
What has been the biggest obstacle you’ve faced while building this car?
Driving in California every day is an obstacle itself, riding around with a 3 inch shiny exhaust can get dicey.
What one word best describes your car?
MEATY
What is your final goal with this car?
Final goal I won’t say exactly which kit. But eventually I would like to get an authentic wide body setup. I haven’t seen too many wagons with a legit wide body done.
If money is no object, which make & model wagon would you get into?
Outside of Subaru I can see that RS6 Avant getting my attention.
