My $300 Turbo 1ZZ Corolla Build

After my recently deceased Audi left a bad taste in my mouth, I’ve decided to go built not bought! I bought this previously ratted Corolla for $300 with the intention of building this to be even more unique then it already is!

The car has a newer, wire tucked 1ZZ-FE as the original blew up. It’s matched to the factory 5 speed manual. It has sketchily rolled fenders and some very JDM inspired cosmetics. The suspension consists of factory struts (blown) with, and no I’m not joking, trailer springs. That setup will not be staying.

The wheels are my first modification. Used Centerline rims; 4x108 14x6 0 Offset in the front and 4x108 14x7 0 Offset in the rear. The tires are 175 65 r14’s on all four corners giving a small amount of stretch in the rear and level in the front. In the future will be new struts and much stuffer, more legitimate lowering springs and fender flares allowing for actual travel. The engine will be getting a small turbocharger pumping a whole 7 psi into the 1zz with a goal of 180hp.

I’ll mention as well that this is an extreme budget build. Pricing so far is as follows.

1999 Toyota Corolla: $300

Centerline Wheels: $100

1” Wheel Adapters: $70 + $80 Shipping

Tires Mounted and Balanced: $180

Bonnet Pins: $40

Intake: Free

Total So Far = $770

Still to Come: Turbo and supporting components, suspension mods, further cosmetics and adjustments, new drivers fender, fender flares.

The final price I want to try and keep under $2500. I think I should be able to keep it under $2k if I’m patient with my parts search. Let me know if you have any suggestions or ideas. Totally open, it’s a car to have fun with!