Australian YouTube duo Mighty Car Mods has created the ultimate sleeper in the form of a turbocharged Toyota Hilux.
While the Toyota Hilux has earned a reputation as a tough-as-nails work bakkie, this third-generation Hilux was built to shred tyres. After buying the car online, the folks at Mighty Car Mods modified this example to put down some added power – all while sporting an unassuming exterior.
This 1982 Hilux is powered by the Japanese automaker’s 2.7-litre, four-cylinder petrol motor, sourced from a more modern generation of Hilux. However, for this build, Mighty Car Mods has equipped the (originally naturally aspirated) 2TR unit with breathing apparatus in the form of turbocharging. Now producing around 119 kW, the turbocharged 2.7-litre mill is coupled with a modern five-speed manual transmission, replete with an upgraded Xtreme Outback clutch. Also fitted to this Hilux are a front-mounted intercooler, a custom driveshaft, a limited-slip rear differential, larger brakes, and a custom exhaust system. A Haltech ECU was added to manage the drive-by-wire Subaru throttle pedal.
The Mighty Car Mods team bought the Hilux with the retro-inspired paintwork you see here. The interior has remained largely original. However, sound deadening has been added to the doors, while the original analogue instrument cluster is digitally operated via the Haltech ECU, and the lithium-ion battery has been relocated to sit behind the passenger seat.
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