Richard McMickens' Nissan GTR R35: Project HAKAI - A Dream Realized
Dive into Richard McMickens' passion-driven journey with his 2014 Nissan GTR R35, a build that embodies automotive dreams and personal evolution.
Share this story on social using the buttons above the image.
Order Your Car Magazines From Our Amazon, or Etsy Store!
Already A Member? Click Here To Read Your Car Magazines FREE!!!
Richard McMickens
2014 Nissan GTR R35
Instagram: @RichardMcMickens
Photographer/Author:
Donnie Rochin
Instagram: @r0cean11
Facebook: r0ccean11 Photography
The Journey Begins: Automotive Roots
"Enjoy the ride; it goes by so quickly." ~ Richard McMickens
My name is Richard McMickens. I am 39 years old and work in real estate. I am originally from South Philly but now live in California.
Influential Beginnings
My Uncle Cliff is the one who got me into cars. He used to mod his cars, and when I was a kid, he was the person I wanted to be like. He was in the import scene, went to shows in Philly, and participated in the weekend street races, which were local cultural events. There would be cars at the street races from all makes, from old-school domestics with big builds to MK4 Supras with upgraded turbos, featuring the classic HKS or Greddy modifications that made all the sweet sounds I fell in love with.
I learned how to install audio and do custom fabrication from my Stepfather. We would go on eBay and look for deals on car parts back in the day, and we would be excited when they arrived to install them on our cars. I would later learn additional skills from my dad and stepfather. My dad was huge on power and how a car looked and performed. I realized that the details were always crucial in a car and that we should not ignore the small stuff.
The Car Journey: From First Rides to Dream Machine
Early Automotive Experiences
I've had my share of cars. The first car I tested was my dad's Cadillac Seville with the Northstar Engine, white with a cream-colored interior, a rag top, and 20-inch chrome wheels. The first car I bought was a Caddy Seville, just like my Pops. I installed a sound system, wheels, and tires on it.
I would then ditch the domestic and jump into my first DA9 Integra. I did all the Honda Boy modifications and built the B18 until I sold the car. I would buy another clean DA9, all-white, named "Nintendo" and build the B18C high-compression motor. I later purchased an S13 240sx (pig nose) that I used to drift. While having the DA9 and S13, I picked up a DC2 Integra to daily drive, adding typical bolt-on modifications. Fast forward to California, I bought my first California car, a 2009 370Z. This car would take me places I only dreamed of, such as being in the car community, winning car shows, having track days, and being featured in well-known publications.
The GTR: A Dream Realized - Project HAKAI
Why the Nissan GTR?
Why this car? Because of the heritage and charisma of the GTR. I've always wanted to build it my way.
The Emotional Connection
When I drive the car, I feel humbled that life has granted me the opportunity to drive and own the GTR. When I see it parked, it's bittersweet. I see all the cars of my past that led me to this one. When people see the car driving, they either speed up to get a closer look and give me a nod of approval, or when it's parked, people will take pictures with their phones.
When people ask me questions about it, I feel thankful that they think my car is exciting and want to know more. I honestly built the car for myself. I just wanted this build to be the most incredible street car to date.
Building Advice and Inspiration
Modifications:
Engine/Drivetrain Modifications –
-
Linney Borg Warner 6758 EFR Turbos
-
Injector Dynamics 1300cc injectors
-
Visconti stage 2 fuel pump kit, Walbro 485 Dual Fuel pumps
-
Visconti hardwire fuel line
-
Visconti fuel pressure sensor
-
Omni 4bar map sensor
-
Sbd speed density kit
-
Fabworx catback exhaust
-
BoostLogic 3inch turbo inlets
-
MaPerformance stainless 3in intakes
-
HKS limited edition oil cap
-
HKS Coolant tank cap
-
AMS coolant expansion tank
-
AMS 3.5inch downpipes
-
AAM RaceSpec intercooler w/HKS Charge piping
-
HKS IV Bov's
-
T1R air/oil separator kit
-
CSF aluminum radiator
-
AMS Coolant reservoir
-
Csf X Cicio oil cooler
-
Shep trans
-
Ecutek engine management - Tuned by Sam Barros, currently dialed to 850whp & 645wtq
Suspension Modifications –
-
ISC Suspension 32way fully adjustable coil overs/upgraded springs
-
Whiteline adjustable sway bars and end links
Brakes/Wheels/Tires Modifications –
-
SBD stainless steel brake lines
-
Motul Race brake fluid
-
Brembo Pads & Rotors
-
Gold Yokohama Advan GT 20x10 Front / 20x12 Rear
-
Toyo R888RR Tires 285/35/20 Front / 325/35/20 Rear
Interior Modifications –
-
Recaro SR6 Japan red glass mesh seats with rails and sliders
-
Custom carbon E-brake w/laser etched GTR logo
-
Carismo Design dry matte carbon w/Alcantara D-shaped steering wheel
-
Led Dom light Upgrade
-
Nagrita wide lens rear mirror
Audio/Video –
-
Alpine Type R speakers
Exterior Modifications –
-
Kansai Service full carbon GT wing
-
Kansai Service carbon lip w/brake ducts
-
Kansai Service full Dfy matte carbon canards
-
Trackspec Auto center hood vent & wicker
-
Custom paint with flakes
-
Carbon rear diffuser with aluminum 4-fin design
-
Overtake Japan hood gurney flap
-
JDM clear corner light assembly
My Advice
Get the car if that's what you want. Do right by the car, and it will take care of you. Buy quality, authentic parts, and do it right the first time. If genuine parts are discontinued, work with reputable shops and companies that can "custom build" parts for your needs.
Project Name: HAKAI
The theme/name of the build is called "Project 破壊" (HAKAI), a Japanese word meaning "destruction." This pays homage to Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball Super series, representing a technique harnessed only by the gods that can destroy anything.
Community and Future
I've done some modifications, while my buddies @Davidsautoworks, @jdm_chow, @the_great_barros, and @jesus_takethewheel did other more in-depth work. As Goku once said, "This isn't even my final form." Stay tuned for the body kit installation by a legendary and well-respected Japanese brand.
As for the future, I'm happy with my current stable. I would like to continue enjoying driving and growing my friendships in the car community.
Shoutouts and Acknowledgments
Much love to my hometown family @Wulfpac @Raceworz @Toyotires @Iscsuspensions @giftedlifestyles @_spider_events @kanjospecd. These are some of the people and organizations that have shown me love from day one.
The Car Scene: More Than Just Cars
The car scene has always been a portal to a whole other world for me. It's my hobby and an extension of like-minded people. I've made many new friends I love, and I hope they achieve everything they pursue. The car scene is one of my passions.
My dream car is the one we are discussing—the Nissan GTR R35.
Remember when we were kids standing outside screaming, "That's my car?" Now think, "That's now your car." All things arrive with time. Enjoy the ride; it goes by so quickly.
Please leave your comments below!
Your feedback helps us reach more readers and the Printed Car Magazine. Thank you.
So you think you know all about Cars, prove it! Take A JDM Car Quiz
Do you Need A Freelance Photographer?
Our Photographers Are Available For Hire
UKTM no: UK00003572459