Nissan Skyline C10 - Hakosuka: A JDM Legend

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Shingo Mendoza - “El Bandolero” - 1970 Nissan Skyline C10 - Hakosuka 

Instagram: @decepcionez

Photographer/Author - Donnie Rochin

Instagram - @r0cean11

Facebook - r0cean11 Photography

http://www.r0cean11.com

“There are people with half your potential doing big moves. Go get yours!” ~ Shingo Mendoza

A Passion for Cars

My name is Shingo Mendoza, and I’m known as “El Bandolero.” I’m 47 years old, originally from Mexico, with a Mexican mother and a Japanese father. I run a food truck, but my true passion lies in cars. Like many kids, my love for automobiles started with die-cast models. I was captivated by their fantasy and racing lines. After school, my friends and I would race our little cars on the sidewalk for hours. As I grew older, my passion only intensified. One game that I loved and still enjoy today is Tokyo Xtreme Racer Zero.

Nissan Skyline C10 - Hakosuka: Why This Car?

When it comes to my favorite car, the 1970 Nissan Skyline C10, or Hakosuka, it stands out as one of the most beautiful cars ever made. I’ve owned a few Skylines in my time, but they were always too pristine to modify. This particular one had the perfect character and didn’t need much to be done. I’ve modified every car I’ve ever owned because I can’t leave a car stock; once I start replacing little things, it becomes almost impossible to stop.

Building My Dream Nissan Skyline C10 - Hakosuka

To be honest, I built this car for myself. Cars make me happy, and every time I drive one, I feel a sense of pride. If you don’t look at your car or take a picture every time you park, you might have the wrong ride.

One crucial piece of advice I can offer is to do your research. Building a car becomes much easier when you’re prepared. Seek out people who have done similar work in the past; you’ll likely encounter the same issues they faced and can benefit from their insights.

This Hakosuka reflects the time, effort, sweat, tears, and sleepless nights that went into its creation. Every car aims to please a specific crowd, but mine stands out because it combines details from different places and cultures.

Modifications: Nissan Skyline C10 - Hakosuka

Engine and Drivetrain Modifications

• G15 Engine with dual Webers by KUYSHA HOUSE

• Custom manifold

• R31 steering pump and box

• Odyssey battery

• Silk Racing exhaust

Suspension Modifications

• T3 280ZX front coilover conversion

• T3 adjustable camber plates

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires Modifications

• 280ZX slotted brakes

• Star Sharks wheels (13x8 and 13x11 -25)

• TOYO Proxes R888R tires (225/45/13 and 185/60/13)

Interior Modifications

• Speedhut custom gauges

• 09 Racing carbon fiber rearview mirror

• Full actual cowhide front and rear seats

• Custom dash cover

• Custom carpet

• Lonely driver cup holder

• Retro belts front and back

• Custom rear louvers

• 1 of 1 Spyder shift knob

Audio/Video Modifications

• Retro Manufacturing head unit

• Retro Manufacturing custom pods (x4)

• Retro Manufacturing quadraphonic 4-channel amplifier

• Retro Manufacturing 8” subwoofer

Exterior Modifications

• 09RACING carbon fiber mirrors

• 09RACING carbon fiber gas lid

• Custom fender and rear flares

• Custom front grill

• 72 Skyline trunk spoiler

• OFFDMKT front turn signals

• Laurel fender lights

• SEV Marchal headlights

• Longhorns hood ornament

Community and Support

As usual, everything was done in my backyard. Most of the work was done by me, but I couldn’t have accomplished it without the help of friends like Michi (@09racing), Jessi (@speedhut), Mark (@meltkamp), Jose (@orangelz20), Taka (@kyushahousetaka), who drove from Houston to work his magic, @jarasuka, and @offdmrkt. But in reality, none of this would have happened without the support of my family: my mom, my wife La Kuki, El Tacon, and El Princeso.

Looking Ahead

For now, I’m satisfied with how my Hakosuka looks and performs. Eventually, I’d like to add air ride suspension and A/C to enhance my driving experience. The car scene has taught me that I can build my dreams. It opened my eyes to a whole new world, and all I had to do was put in the work and let the outcome unfold. I’m also excited about a future project: a 1970 Hako Wagon that I’ve already acquired. Keep an eye out for it!

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