Whats up, Speedhunters? My name is James Evins and I'm a freelance photographer from Houston, Texas. I'm definitely excited to be posting here today, I've always looked up to Speedhunters for being more in touch with the automotive community (unlike many forms of media this day and age)
I know alot of you may have been pretty stoked to get a closer look at Ameen's Toyota Cressida previously posted here on Speedhunters - I know I sure was. Well, today I actually had a chance to stop by 786 Motoring, meet with Ameen as well as the rest of his crew, and tag along to a local drift event out here in Houston. I definitely had a blast!
786 Motoring is a shop owned by Ameen and his brother Amir. It was originally started around four years ago, at first nothing more than a place for the guys to work on their own cars. At the time there were very few shops dedicated to drifting so their personal experience in the sport helped them to grow and gain more business and a good reputation.
Amir is also very involved in drifting. At one time, he had a S14. The car was SR swapped, kitted up, with all the run of the mill modifications. One day, he decided to scrap it in favor of something different (and four door) which led to the purchase of his Lexus GS300.
The car was purchased originally as a shell. Paint, wheels, and suspension soon followed.
... oh, and not to mention a 2JZGTE and 5 speed swap.
Amir is currently testing a custom suspension setup built by 786 Motoring. I was surprised when I was told this!
I also had a chance to meet Mikey today. Mikey is an interesting guy - he is sushi waiter who also knows muy thai, and in his spare time he loves to skateboard. Like most skateboarders, you can catch him wearing a simple pair of jeans and a plain flannel shirt, but he is always rockin' some fly sneakers.
His style in cars is very similar - while the exterior is fairly clean and simple, his wheels and fitment stand out tremendously.
Mikey had his SSR SP1's and Powered by Max coilovers fitted and installed at 786 Motoring. His sense of style and personality is very similar to the rest of the group, which is why he has became so tight with the rest of the guys.
The car is currently pushing a stock KA, but more power is in his near future. When I inquired about his decision to address the appearance and wheel fitment first, he told me, "I've got to break necks before I break the ass out"
I also met another Mikey today. To avoid confusion, I'll refer to him by his nickname - "Cutey Pie". From what I've heard, he picked up this nickname because he is very well kept, nicely dressed, and neat.
Mikey likes to keep his car very clean and well kept, also. Its pretty for a car that gets drifted regularly, and I've heard that he always keeps it washed and waxed, and makes sure to take care of it cosmetically.
Cutey Pie had his car built at 786 Motoring after having some bad experiences with other shops. The car received a built KA, powered by a 2871R turbo.
It also has Stance coilovers and nearly ever suspension piece SPL makes for the car. A set of wide Rezax wheels fill the fenders nicely, giving a tight aggressive stance.
He was so satisfied with the build that his business relationship with 786 Motoring became a friendship. So far, he has become one of the biggest supporters of the shop. He has travelled with them from coast to coast, always sticking around to lend a helping hand.
All these cars have one thing in common - they all are very aggressive where they need to be, but also very subtle when necessary. As Ameen told me, its Raw Styling that means business. Not only that, but each car reflects the owners in its build and style.
I definitely had a fun day with 786 Motoring, and I'm glad to be able to share some of these rides with you guys. If you're ever in Houston, look 'em up - not only are they excellent drivers and knowledgeable guys, but they're good people and lots of fun.
-James Evins
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