Path To Perfection

Boosted to levels unheard of without the assistance of modern aftermarket technology, this Acura Integra LS has laid down 640hp and 490 lb-ft of torque, and has run a best time of 10.84-second at 138mph in the quarter mile. Impressive statistics indeed, but outrageously quick drag-racing Integra's don't just fall from the sky. The path to speed is often a multi-layered drama composed of equal parts determination, sweat, blood, time and money. Jason Park's story is no different.

As the owner and proprietor of Parks Racing Engines, Park had his fair share of velocity-addicted customers. One such patron was Robert Coronado, the proud owner of a 1997 Acura Integra LS, which had just dropped a valve in a swapped GS-R powerplant. Originally discussing the options for all-motor performance, Coronado and Park eventually changed the game plan to include the concept of boost. The Integra's stock LS motor was dragged out of a dark corner, slapped together with a B16A cylinder head, fitted with a Spark Racing turbo kit, and tuned by Bubba of Do It Dyno. The results were impressive for what was essentially a stock LS/VTEC engine--394hp and 365 lb-ft of torque. Coronado continued to abuse the LS on the dragstrip, but kept the Acura street-legal as well. Drive to the track, show the domestic boys how it's done and then hop back in and head home--it was all in a day's work.

As time wore on, Coronado looked forward to building a new project and Park stepped forward to give the LS a good home. With the competition in the NHRA Sport FWD class growing faster by the day, Park knew that he would need a few upgrades in order to keep up with the competition. Founding Ghostworks Racing in 2004, Park specified a full renovation for the Integra in order to demolish all challengers in the quarter.As an ASE certified technician and self-built fabricator, Park got down and dirty on the build, working on the car largely by himself. After pulling the LS/VTEC engine, Park dissembled the motor to its core components. The LS block was sent to Golden Eagle Manufacturing for machine work and the installation of iron ductile sleeves. Once returned, the original 1.8L displacement was bumped up to 2.1L using a Crower billet 92mm stroker crank, 84.5mm bore Arias gas ported pistons and Crower billet connecting rods.

For the full story, along with more pictures and specs, pick up the September 2006 issue of Import Tuner Magazine, on sale at your local newsstand now!

By Joey Leh

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