When someone mentions the Toyota Hilux, it is highly unlikely that “Hill Climb Monster” or anything to do with performance for that matter, comes to mind…
FatBoy Fab Works, however, see the Hilux in a different light, and as such, they decided to purpose build a Hilux for the 2021 Simola Hillclimb. How do you turn a trusty workhorse/lifestyle product into a rip-snorting racer? Shoehorn a twin turbocharged V12 under the bonnet, of course…
Between 1997 and 2017, Toyota produced the second-Generation Toyota Century, their answer to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Offering the best that Japan has to offer in the way of automotive luxury, the Century was powered by Japan’s only production V12, the legendary 1GZ FE.
And so, the 1GZ FE would prove to be the perfect powerplant for FatBoy Fab Works’ Hillclimb Hilux, especially with the addition of two Garrett GT35 turbochargers.
The final product is 402 kW and 970 N.m from the 5,0-litre V12, mated to the Century’s four-speed automatic gearbox. In addition to this, the brakes and suspension have been uprated and a custom propshaft installed.
After a few technical gremlins on day 1 of the 2021 Simola Hillclimb, the bakkie managed an impressive run on day 2.
“What an Awesome Experience this was. Can’t thank everyone enough for this, but most of all, Thank You Jesus,” said FatBoy Fab Works in a Facebook post.
