2016 BRZ and 1989 Mazda RX7: JDM Dift Cars

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Jason Buchanan And His JDM Drift Cars

Jason Buchanan - 2016 BRZ and 1989 Mazda RX7 Drift Cars

IG/YT: @jasondriftz

Jasondriftz.bigcartel.com 

Photographer/Author - Donnie Rochin

IG - @r0cean11

FB - r0cean11 Photography

http://www.r0cean11.com

“If you woke up today, you’ve already won…now go have a great day!”

I’m Jason Buchanan, originally from Lubbock, Texas, but I’ve moved from the dirt to the bustling city of Dallas. At 38 years old, I manage commercial pool builds and have been immersed in the world of motorsports for most of my life.

Early Influences and Drift Journey

My dad introduced me to motorsports, and I’ve been racing and riding motorcycles since I was five. He always insisted that cars were safer, a lesson I truly understood after an accident we experienced together. My journey into drifting began with a program called Drift Week 7, which planted the seed for this exhilarating hobby.

When it comes to my cars, I love the uniqueness of my builds. The pro car is just rowdy—loud, fast, and anything but dull compared to the typical S chassis and Z cars you often see at events. The same goes for my RX-7; its mechanical grip and overall aesthetics keep it an active and fun little car.

Car History and Modifications

I haven’t gone through a lot of cars per se; instead, I’ve upgraded as I’ve progressed. I passed my driver’s test in a '98 Toyota pickup, and I’ve always modified my cars, starting with simple changes like wheels and stereos. Once I had a steady income, I realized how affordable and enjoyable it was to enhance my vehicles. Now, I focus on modifications that make my cars drift-ready and fun to drive.

2016 Subaru BRZ: Built for Performance

The BRZ was built to destroy tires, and it does this exceptionally well. Many people perceive it as just a pretty version of their car, but when they see the wide-body and hear the LS7 exhaust, their perspective changes. It’s incredible to witness their reactions when they realize it’s far from the stock version they own.

Installing Chevy truck motors into Japanese cars is a challenging task. They aren’t designed to fit together easily, requiring extensive modification and fabrication. This often leads to unexpected parts runs that can confuse the counter staff. My advice? Make sure you’re fully capable of completing the modifications you envision!

BRZ Specifications:

• Engine: LS7 with a top-end build and upgraded heads

• Transmission: Built T56 transmission with straight gears

• Drivetrain: Carbon fiber driveshaft, quick change, and 1500 hp axles

• Suspension: Yellow Speed setup with Wisefab control arms and hubs

• Brakes: Yellow Speed brake calipers (six total)

• Wheels: 24 Rays 57DRs for both vehicles

• Tires: Sponsored by Valino, with over 100 in stock

• Chassis: Complete tubeless front and rear ends, stitch-welded, gutted, and caged to Formula Drift specs

• Safety: Full halo racing seats, 8-point fire suppression system, and 6-point harnesses

• Exterior: Complete HGK carbon fiber kit, including a carbon fiber hood, roof, and trunk

• Weight: A mere 2360 lbs without me in it

1989 Mazda RX7: A Unique Build with History

The RX7 is a 1989 model that has been LS swapped with a T56 transmission. It was originally featured on YouTube by Taylor Ray, giving it a bit of fame. I won the car in a raffle, and it’s the reason I fell in love with drifting. The LS power and setup were perfect for a beginner like me.

I transformed the interior into a party car, making it fun for anyone who looks inside. I’ve kept the essence of the Mazda while making it uniquely mine. The car features Origin overfenders and KBD bumpers and skirts, making it virtually bulletproof.

RX7 Specifications:

• Engine: 5.3 LS swapped with T56

• Interior: Custom party car setup with a vibrant atmosphere

• Suspension: FDF angle kit, PBM rear arms, bushings, and camber links

• Wheels: Complete set of Rays 57DRs

• Coilovers: Fortune Auto coilovers

• Steering: Electric power steering with a Sparky-built rack and Volvo pump

• Technology: Holley Terminator X Max with a 12” screen, halo seat, and complete Drift HQ roll cage

• Interior Design: Lime green carpet and wrap by my good friend, The Ragenstein

Community and Support

I’m fortunate to have friends who are excellent mechanics and willing to help me out. While I tackle all the little tasks, significant projects often require teamwork. Taylor Ray built the BRZ, while my RX7 was constructed by Forest Wang.

Future Plans for My Builds

My goal for both cars is to continue making them consistent and reliable drift machines. Although minor issues arise approximately once a month, we resolve and improve upon them each time. These cars are specifically designed for drifting and excel in this discipline. I don’t plan on adding anything else right now, except perhaps a pair of superchargers. However, I haven’t yet reached a point on the track where I feel I need an extra 250 hp or belt issues.

The drift scene can be hit or miss. There are some truly amazing events filled with good vibes, while others can be unorganized and test your patience. Overall, the drift and race communities are very supportive, but sometimes the logistics can feel chaotic. Finding balance has greatly enhanced my experience at events, and I feel I’ve grown as both a person and a driver through the ups and downs.

Dream Car Aspirations

Choosing my dream car is difficult. I find myself torn between a custom RWB Porsche and a bagged Pandem S15. Both represent the pinnacle of automotive art and performance, and I aspire to own one of them someday.

Useful Articles:

• Is Modifying Your Car Dangerous?

• Which car modifications are against the law?

• Best JDM Cars to Customize

• 5 Cheap Japanese Cars You Can Modify: Unleashing Your Inner Auto Enthusiast

• The Battle of Japanese Automotive Legends: Which JDM Car Is The Best?

• Muscle cars vs jdm cars

• What Modifications Can You Do to a Lexus IS200?

• Best Cars to Customize: Unleashing Your Automotive Creativity

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