The Retro Selection
The early models are still readily available here in Thailand, plenty of these have been restored and updated and are quite a common sight on the roads, probably due to the popularity of pickup trucks in general. Modifications vary from restorations using standard or OEM parts , right up to builds were no part has been left untouched or unmodified.
A lot of builds here in Thailand use later engines and running gear, mainly due to the sheer amount of late model Isuzu and Toyota parts being available and the relatively cheap cost of tuning and modifying them. A modern TDI from a DMAX or Revo ( Hilux) can be cheaply tuned to produce some decent horsepower and more importantly big lumps of instant torque and still last forever.
Here are a few lovely examples ….
The Toyota Hilux Mighty X from Fridays Restaurant , more about this awesome place later!
A trip to Fridays with one of the “Junior Modifieds” to take a look at their ever growing collection of awesome cars, trucks and bikes! The Hilux Mighty is an iconic workhorse that still has a big following here in Thailand, even most of the parts are available from places like the Hilux Shop.
Spotted in a local Khon Kaen market, immaculate early model "lifted" 1988 Hilux
We don’t know any more details about this one, we spotted it while food shopping at a local market, all we can say is that it was immaculate and has a retro monster truck vibe about it.
1979 Toyota Hero YN50
This beauty is owned and and restored by an Australian expat, we 100% love the styling on this, it just sits right and has a subbtle look that is spot on!
The owner has big plans for another build, using the same model shell but with a full on massive horsepower Barra turbo engine( a legendary Australian Ford straight 6), 9 inch rear, and 2 speed powerglide box.
Now that’s one we want to see when it’s done!
Lowrider Lovely
One from our Spot of the Day series, early 90’s, air-ride, retro cool at it’s best!
Foam and Family
