IT: When you started on the EK Civic, where or how did you come up with Feels wide body concept?LJ: Actually I saw it in a Japanese book. Right when I saw it I was like, that's it, I gotta have it.
IT: That was the first time we'd seen that kit in the U.S.LJ: Yeah, I imported it as soon as possible and the first time anyone got a really good look at it was when Import Tuner put it on the cover.
IT That was our second issue on the newsstand. The first widebody Civic, and of course Francine Dee, were both really popular. We don't even have any of those issues left in back issues anymore, and I heard they were going for like $50 on Ebay.LJ: No shit! Damn, I got like a dozen of those things left at home. Time to get rid of 'em huh?
IT: So, now that you've completely cleaned up just about every prize and every magazine cover you could, what's next for the EK, I heard a "retirement" is on the horizon?LJ: Well, for 2002 I'm bringing out a four-door Civic that I've been working on, although it's not really for competition purposes.
IT: Oh yeah? What do you mean?LJ: Well, I'm looking at getting into a different aspect of import shows. I want to start building promotional vehicles for manufacturers and aftermarket companies. The hatchback got plenty of exposure itself,but this new car is just a new platform to show these companies what I can do for them.
IT: That's a good idea. There's people doing it, and you've gotta figure if these companies really want to reach this market what better way to get across than through L.J. Garcia?LJ: That's what I'm saying.
IT: So, you're trying to step up?LJ: That's right!
IT: What's with this product endorsement gig?LJ: Do you mean the wheel one?
IT: Well yeah, but I heard there might be a couple more in the works?LJ: Yeah it's cool, I've some things cookin' and I've gotta see if they really come through first before I say too much, but I'm working with an air suspension company right now on some really dope import stuff.
IT: What about a race car? I heard you are thinking about building a drag car?LJ: Shit! What don't you know!
IT: Well?LJ: Yeah, I'm gonna build Quick Class car. I miss racing sometimes, so I'm gonna build one hopefully that'll run in the 10s, nothing too crazy yet.
IT: Cool. Well I'm gonna wrap this up 'cause I've spent enough time with ya already. But before I get on, who or what inspires you to keep going?LJ: Hmm. Honestly, I'd say the reaction from the showgoers whenever I display my car. That's what fuels me go keep going bigger and better. Mind you, I also love the competition, I'm a competitive kinda guy.
IT: You can say that again!!