Nissan 240SX - Silvia

Wait a minute-did I just say turbo timer and remote boost control switch? Why does the KA24 powered 240SX need a turbo timer or boost control switch? Well, when you've done what Phan has done and swapped out the K-motor for a Japanese-spec SR20DET from an S13 chassis, those two GReddy electronics pieces make much more sense. Under the hood of the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration, a host of GReddy parts complement the powertrain symphony beneath the red valve cover. Liquid containment is handled by a GReddy oil catch can and an application-specific GReddy aluminum radiator designed especially for the Silvia and mated to dual FAL Slimline radiator fans. Keeping everything in perfectly ensured working order and looking good while doing it is the job of the Injen hot pipe and hose and the radiator overflow tank.

Injen also has a hand in Phan's power production department. An Injen air filter and heat shield are responsible for bringing in cool air for the turbine system, while a front-mounted GReddy Silvia intercooler keeps the intake charge air temperatures as low as possible. After the air/fuel mixture is ignited by the GReddy Racing spark plugs, the exhaust gas makes its way down a GReddy upgraded downpipe and through the A'PEXi GT Spec exhaust system, also specially designed for the Silvia. Back under the hood, the ACT clutch transfers the rotational force of the JUN lightened flywheel to the limited-slip differential and finally to the special-offset Racing Hart CRs, sized 19x.85, front, and 19x 10, rear.

All of this power potential without an appropriate suspension setup would be foolhardy, and since Phan is no fool, she added a complete suspension tuneup to the mix. Tein HE full coilovers occupy the four corners, while a pair of Cusco carbon-fiber strut tower bars tie in the opposing sides. Stopping power was also upgraded to powdercoated Z32 (that's 300ZX chassis for those that don't know) calipers and the corresponding Brembo cross-drilled rotors. The grunt work is handled by a quadruplet of KVR brake pads.

There were no dyno numbers given in the spec sheet, but we do know that Phan's Silvia conversion is her daily mode of transport, making the vehicle that much more inspiring. And, without being patronizing in any way, the fact that a girl owns, drives and basically rules this car puts it on a completely ethereal and goddess-like plain. We could all take a hint from Phan and abandon those "Powered by..." stickers and look to new places for inspiration. Be it mythological gods and goddesses or import tuning, there's nothing quite like grrrl power.