Martin Richards R33

During the Drift Matsuri event at Anglesey I took the oppotunity to shoot some more car features, the first is Martin Richards R33 GTST Spec 2.

The engine has been swapped for a Toyota 1JZGTE, the modifications to the engine include race bearings, Naprec Performance high response big valve head, JUN 264 inlet, high lift camshafts, HKS adjustable timing pulleys, HKS headgasket, GReddy TD06-25G turbo kit, custom intercooler, HKS wastegate & Apexi Power FC management system.

These modifications have been carefully chosen to provide responsive, usable power although it still manages 520HP and 500ft/lb torque. The engine is paired to an Ogura twin plate clutch & Toyota R154 gearbox.

A lot of thought has cone into the suspension and geometry to get the car handle how Martin wants, this includes HSD Coilovers with custom spring rates, Richards Racing Super Lock front geometry setup with custom knuckles, modified steering rack position & custom camber arms. This provides about 65 degrees of lock, from seeing Martin on track I can confirm he uses it all! The rear geometry is handled by Driftworks GeoMaster knuckles and adjustable arms.

The wheels are PDW EuroDrift in satin black, the fronts are 9.5j with 11j at the rear, Altenzo 365/35 18″ tyres are wrapped around them.

The bodykit is a mixture of Aerokit Spec D front and rear bumpers with custom work, the sideskirts are custom and the overfenders are from Zac Pole. The bodykit and the livery designed by Infamous Creations make the car stand out wherever it is.

Martin has also modified the car to improve its balance by lightening the chassis (its possible to see through the floor of the car!), moved some components to the rear of the car including the radiator and fuel system, fitted a T45 lightweight custom cage and strengthened the chassis and suspension mounting points. All of this has been made easier with the fabrication work of Zurawski Motorsport.

Martin will be making some improvements to the car ready for the 2015 Drift Allstars season, after this year he plans to build a new car to stay competative with Europes best.

It wouldnt be possible to compete at a high level throughout Europe without dedicated sponsors, Martin would like to thank Altenzo Tyres, TyreTraders.com, PDW International, Zurawski Motorsport, Downside Drifters & Hate Hard Clothing.