From Stock to Showstopper: Glenn’s 2004 Nissan Fairlady Z Evolution

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Glenn 

2004 Nissan Fairlady Z 

Instagram: @m.a.d.16

A Passion for Modifications: Over 20 Years in the Making

I’m Glenn, and I’ve been modifying cars for over 20 years. In that time, I’ve learned a lot, primarily because I’m the type of person who likes to try everything myself. This hands-on approach has driven me to explore all aspects of car customization. My experiences eventually led me to start a YouTube channel called “MAD L1fe” with a few mates. We create “how-to” videos to share our journey, and if you’re looking for behind-the-scenes content, you can find more on my Instagram account, @m.a.d.16.

But enough about that—let’s talk about my pride and joy: my 2004 Nissan Fairlady Z. I picked her up back in 2018, and she was completely stock, with only 22,000 miles on the clock and a full-service history. The car was so untouched that it still had the original cassette player. However, stock didn’t last long; within the first five hours of ownership, I had already purchased a set of concaved 19s. Though those wheels are no longer on the car, they marked the beginning of a significant transformation.

The Transformation: From Stock to Custom Marvel

Exterior Enhancements: Aggression Meets Elegance

The Fairlady Z has undergone a fair amount of work over the years. The Do Luck wider over-fenders and custom rear bumper vents give the car a more aggressive stance. I’ve also fitted sports cats, a full stainless exhaust system, a custom air intake, and a recently added plenum spacer. My next step is an Uprev tune to maximize the performance of these breathing mods. You’ll also notice that I airbrushed a Hellboy theme on the top of the engine for an extra touch of personality.

The suspension is equally important. I’m running Eibach Sportline springs with OEM poly-bushed anti-roll bars and adjustable drop links. The modifications carry on inside the car, with an OMP steering wheel, D1 Spec quick release, NRG reclining bucket seats, and OMP harnesses connected to a rear harness bar.

Interior Upgrades: Comfort and Control

Inside, I’ve outfitted the car with several upgrades, including NRG red reclining bucket seats and a deep-dish OMP steering wheel. The interior features red leather handbrake and gear stick gaiters, a Richbrook alloy handbrake handle, and a Hellboy-themed centre console. An Android head unit with JBL component speakers and a Vibe subwoofer brings the entertainment, while the HUD keeps me informed at all times.

Spec list

Engine and Exhaust

• Engine: VQ35DE

• Induction: Custom cold air intake, carbon intake pipe, Mishimoto pop charger

• Exhaust: Japspeed K1 exhaust, Japspeed sport cats

• Upgrades: Blox plenum spacer, red silicone hoses, HKS earth lines, custom cooling plate

Braking and Suspension

• Brakes: Mtec dimpled and grooved discs, EBC pads, Hel braided hoses, full fluid flush

• Suspension: Eibach Sportline springs (F1.7", R2.3" drop), adjustable drop links, Strong Flex poly bushes

• Wheels: Cades 20" dished wheels (F8.5", R11")

Bodywork and Aerodynamics

• Bodywork: Custom headlamps and rear lights, INGS front bib, INGS rear spoiler, Do Luck wider over-fenders

• Carbon Fiber: Mirror covers, door handle overlays, custom diffuser, rear bumper vents, bonnet lift spacers

• Graphics: Hellboy roof wrap, blood splatter graphics, Hellboy Z logos

Interior and Audio

• Seats: NRG red reclining bucket seats, OMP 4-point harnesses

• Steering: OMP deep-dish wheel, D1 Spec quick-release

• Audio: JBL component speakers, Vibe 10" subwoofer and amp

• Console: Hellboy comic strip center console, Android head unit

The Latest Additions: Bringing It All Together

Since my last cover feature in Stance Auto Magazine, I’ve made several significant updates. I’m still running the Do Luck arches, but now I’ve added a 370Z Nismo-style bumper by Tarmac Sports, complete with a James Bond-style flip-away number plate. I also swapped the bonnet for a fiberglass vented version and upgraded the rear spoiler to an Esprit GTR model. The rear end now sports an APR carbon fiber number plate surround.

One of the biggest changes is the new race livery. After months of searching, I chose a Le Mans/GT Proto-style livery reminiscent of the 1990s Nissan 300ZX LM car. After fitting the livery, I discovered that Gran Turismo 4 featured the same design on the Nissan 350Z LM concept, and my gamer friends still send me screenshots when they spot it.

What’s Next for the Fairlady Z?

My next modification will definitely be the Uprev tune to optimize all the mods I’ve completed. I’m also considering creating a custom boot build soon to take the car’s functionality and aesthetics to the next level. The journey with this car is far from over, and I’m excited about what the future holds.

Taking the Fairlady Z on the Road

I live near the Goodwood race circuit, so I often visit and have showcased my car at various breakfast club events held at the track. I was also scheduled to attend an event called Players in June, but it was postponed. When I’m not at Goodwood, you’ll find me attending other shows like Japfest, Tunerfest, and Simply Jap.

A Passion Project That Continues to Evolve

Since picking up my 2004 Nissan Fairlady Z in 2018, this car has evolved from a stock ride with a cassette player to a custom masterpiece that reflects my passion and dedication. Every modification tells a story, and every upgrade marks a chapter in my journey. The Fairlady Z is more than just a car—it’s a part of who I am, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.

Please leave your comments on my story in the comments section at the bottom of the page, it helps the story get more views and reach the Printed Magazine, Thank you.

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