With the show season still on hold and some of the biggest names in the game locked away in their garages devising diabolical new builds for the coming season it has been difficult to find events worth attending lately with the closest big name event being Slammed Society in April. That being said, Tommy Le of Fresh on Stance fame contacted us early Tuesday morning to plan a last minute car meet and new up and coming garage Blackwood Motorsports to be held just 4 days later. With a battle plan set in stone, and a challenge to see how big of a crowd we could gather at such a last minute scenario we set out to plan an awesome way to kill a Saturday afternoon. 

The boys at Blackwood did a fantastic job making each and every attendee feel like party of the family, taking a second out of their day to introduce themselves and the shop to any willing to lend a few moments to check out some of the awesome project cars and performance parts for sale at the meet. Though the crowd amassed fairly slowly, the end result was a better outcome then we could have ever expected. 

Tommy, and our boy Max even went as far as to give each car a personal photo shoot just for making the trip to the Downey based garages last second car meet. Though for most it was just a gimmick to put smiles on the attendees faces, I must say there were quite a few cars that may indeed have been worthy of an actual feature.

At around 2:00pm the crowd really began to pour in. Growing our humble gathering of 15 or so cars to a moderate size of about 65 or 70 cars. That being said, with only 3 days to promote the meet, the boys at Blackwood, Fresh on Stance, and us here at Stance Stories were more than happy with the humble outcome as it served a rare opportunity to interact with tons of new faces from a community that we all claim to love! This got us thinking, with such a great turnout in only 3 days, what would happen if we gave an event a month or two to build up steam? Could this be the start of something bigger…? A collab show to end all collab shows? Guess you’ll just have to wait and see!

• Story by Aleksey Royt
• Photos by Max Montague
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

What does the term visionary mean to you? Websters defines the term as “One who is given to impractical or speculative ideas; a dreamer.” However to us it means something much different; much purer. For us, a visionary is one who will pursue the ideals he sets upon himself without a shred of seamless regret or attention to nay-saying that he will no doubt encounter along the way. Over the course of this feature keep repeating the initial question to yourself, let it resonate in your head as you ponder your own definition of the term. In retrospect of this shoot and the discussions had along the way we feel the term rings true within the confines of this article. Will you? 

The above being said, our culture is one of constant evolution and change. Those at the front of the newest trends take the greatest social risks in pursuing something they feel will be the perfect car; a true masterpiece of metals, bolts, and gears. Where most fall flat on their faces; a choice few may revel in the success of a job well done and all the notoriety that comes with it.  For these people, it’s not about falling in with the crowd and falling in with the styles that so many have set and reset the bar for over the years. It’s a never ending pursuit to stand out amongst one’s peers and show the world the artist hidden within. It’s all about creating something unique. Something nobody has ever witnessed before.

It always starts the same way. You sit in your cozy office chair scrolling along through your news feed, flipping through the pages of a magazine on the bus ride to work, or maybe just strolling through the grocery store parking lot. All of a sudden you see it; something so special and different that it makes you want to jump and and scream “‘What is this and why was I not informed?” It sets itself apart in your brain and sits in that special nook you revisit every time you think of a perfect execution of concept like the perfect color scheme or wheel choice. Maybe something completely different that you would have never expected. “Why didn’t I think of this first?” you ask yourself… The answer is simple. To create a vision like this; this work of art before you. It takes someone just as different as the build itself. It requires a stand out idealist with an eye for beauty and a drive for perfection. In our eyes, it takes a visionary.

These risk-takers envision the progression of an idea, their goal is to go beyond their peers to the next step. A new unforeseen form of perfection.  Sometimes this comes in the form of incorporating concepts from another style, building on a classic concept, or just trying something crazy and new that’s never been conceived before.  They strike a chord in our brains that resonates down to our vary being, every time you see it you can’t help but think of that particular car that defines your sense of perfection.

We have to keep a constant eye out for genuinely original ideas and keep our minds open to the new and different;  for visionaries and their creations. This doesn’t mean that we have to stop using a critical eye when we look at quality of parts and workmanship, but that we can be excited about the successful execution of a new idea and look at it with an eye towards evolution.  We know right away when there’s been a quick and easy attempt to grab attention and it usually does, just not in a positive way.  The real game-changers are the ones that keep quality, style, and performance at the top of their priority list. The few true remaining artists hidden in the world of motorsport.

Jeff Zhu, in our collective opinion, is one of these visionaries. A Mitsubishi Evolution equipped with air ride seems like a blasphemous concept, and indeed it may be to those committed few who keep the car true to the cars rally-bread roots, however, to others it serves as a bold statement of rebellion, a testament to change and individuality that this culture has needed for quite some time. The car culture doesn’t have a need for anymore so-called “trend setters” trying to dominate a game that so many have already pursued and succeeded in; instead we need more people like Jeff. Those willing to stand up against the peer pressure and addicting draw of repetitiveness, and do what they want too. Oblivious to the out looks or opinions of others.

Jeff’s car went through some changes through out the course of us shooting this feature. He changed his wheels as well a few small things here and there. His taste and style is constantly evolving, as you have probably noticed from the photos. This car is all about doing it big, doing it different, and doing it proper. That being said; Jeff has hit every single goal point dead center in it’s chest. The man has set out to innovate the way people see the Evolution platform, and we can’t wait to see what he comes out with next. This is not just a stand out build, this has been a small glimpse into the mind of a game changer, a trend setter…. Finally, in our opinion; a true automotive visionary.

• Story by Aleksey Royt & Max Montague
  
• Photos by Aleksey Royt & Carlos Rivera
• Video by Ali Aletha & Aleksey Royt

It was four days into 2013, the new year and I was already sitting at my computer scrolling through facebook when I get a message asking if I was going to ‘anal beads’.  Luckily I had noticed a post earlier that evening for a Royal Origin meet with special guests Lowballers.  The photo in the background was a bit of a non-sequitur but having seen numerous members of the club in every major show last year made me hungry to start the year off right. 

As if the promise of aired-out cars on rare and expensive wheels wasn’t alluring enough, the meet was set at M&M Donuts – a local favorite stop for the ultimate late-night snack: blueberry donuts.  Every night of the week cars line up and park to wait for the bakery to open.  I wasn’t visiting just for the sugar fix though, that last-minute facebook message sent me out on a quest for a choice selection of Southern California’s most serious players in the scene.

The truly inspiring Rocket-Bunny kitted Stay Crushing Scion FR-S.  Not only is this thing stunning in person, the story behind its builder is a classic example of the tenacity and sacrifice required to build a car at this level. The owner carries a full load at Cal Poly Pomona, works over 50 hours a week, and developed an ulcer getting his car built for SEMA on time! 

It’s one thing to see these cars in photos on your computer screen, but watching them tackle the rough parking lot and steep driveways is like watching someone lead a bull through a china shop.  One of the criticisms that always follows show-quality cars is that they’re completely impractical and therefore never driven, but this parking lot and the local streets of Anaheim are nothing like the smooth parking lots of local shows and these guys show up all the same.

The best part about meets like this is the donu… er, the people!  There was a pretty serious crowd gathered at one point and everyone was smiling and chatting about the cars as they rolled up but even as a few people revved on the way out the atmosphere stayed laid back and positive, a perfect example of the SoCal car scene for members of Lowballers visiting from Japan.

• Story by Max Montague
  
• Photos by Max Montague
• Edited by Max Montague

Once a year Irwindale Speedway ditches it’s title as the “House of Drift” and procures the monicker of the “House of Drag”. The Moon Eyes Christmas Party this year topped it’s presiding years with great gusto the first weekend of December as hotrodders, low riders, bobbers, and drag cars poured into the Azusa race park early Saturday morning on December the 8th. The young adults and teenagers of the car culture today stand sort of oblivious to this side of automotive tuning so we thought we’d roll back to our respective roots, and show all you kiddies what you’ve been missing out on! 

For those of you who aren’t aware of what hot rods are, the definitions can be wide spread and nebulous. My explanation to people has always been that the hot rod is a fairly simple idea. Take a vehicle that’s cheap and readily available, cut it up to remove some weight, lower it and fit some fat tires on the frame. Build or swap out the engine, open up the exhaust, and then customize it or paint it a wild color. By using some good ol’ Yankee ingenuity, you were able to modify an inexpensive vehicle into one that performed better and looked cool.

In fact, as the above photo demonstrates. The stance sub-culture and the hot rodder culture have many things in common. Back in the olden days, Rods were about self-expression and doing something un-conventional. There wasn’t a prescribed set of rules. In fact, rules were meant to be broken. Insane ingenuity and creativity behind a build that ends up getting laid flat on the pavement. If that sounds familiar to you… It should. Maybe even sounds something like your own build at home? By idea, the stance scene may have never come into fruition without our grandfather Ratrod community. 

The hot rod community can serve as inspiration to aspiring car enthusiasts. A prime example would be Rusty Slammington of Stance Works frame. Yes it was a slammed BMW on Rotiforms, but at his heart. Rusty was a rat rod indefinitely. Some of the craziest, most innovative, and insanely creative modifications can be found in rat rods. If you think curtains and interior tables are creative and original, ponder then over the hand fabricated aluminum seats. The use of old beer cans for oil catch tanks, shift knobs, and even cosmetic modifications. Are these modifications practical? No. Are they incredibly awesome? Absolutely.

It is then this writers inquiry, why don’t we see more stance enthusiasts attending rat rod and low rider shows? Is the barrier between different car communities so thick that nobody can stomach seeing something different for a change? I invite you to step outside the comfort zone of slammed Civic’s at your local Burger King and make the trip to one of these shows. Inspiration is always to be gained, but who knows, you might fall in love with an entirely different beast. Stance Stories has always been a fitment & flush based blog but the fact of the matter is that most of us started our journey at the local drag strips and fabrication garages building rat rods just like these!

The car community is one of constant change and expansion, regardless of what type of car you drive, or what “style” it may fall into. We are just what I just stated. A community, although a community divided. I implore our readers to get out to shows like these and meet new people. See new cars, new styles, open your mind and who knows… You may invent the next big style. Rat rod influence can already be seen in the stance sub-culture if you meet the right people. For example Jesse Ortiz of team Low N Slow with his 1J-Celica, or as previously stated, full custom fabricated builds like Rusty Slammington.

After careful consideration post our adventure through this years Moon Eyes Christmas Party, we have decided to start bringing you guys small hints of rat rod and drag coverage from time to time so that everyone can get a fresh look at something different that most of you have never been exposed to before. Same great stance coverage with something a little more seasoned mixed in. We love the creativity and originality that goes into some of these builds, and even if you don’t, you should still show respect for the hard work and originality that the community invests into their own cars.

For 3 years now Moon Eyes has been my favorite annual car show to attend. I could sit here for years and talk about how incredible and innovative this culture continues to be some 75 years since it began. For a style that has been around almost as long as the modern automobile there is still always something new and different to see at every show. Moon Eyes has always done a great job pulling it the most beautiful builds California has to offer. Be that their reputation for near flawless products, the attraction of the atmosphere or the show, or just the amazing promotional work they do for the shows. It always ends up being a massive success and this year was no different. Who knows, maybe next year we will spot some of you out amongst the crowd.

• Story by Aleksey Royt
• Photos by Juan Mazariego
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

There is something to be said about people who strive for their own definition of perfection. Look for example at DaVinci’s famous painting; the Mona Lisa. To the naked eye it is just a picture of a woman with an awkward smile. However, the painting has come to be recognized as a pinnacle of artistic beauty set by one of the greatest minds of the Italian Renaissance era. With this being said, most feel the simplicity of the painting serves as it’s greatest asset. Zach Spusta’s Subaru Impreza STI serves a similar homage to the artists vision. Perfection achieved through the subtle and rare art of simplicity. 

Zach’s Subaru is an example of the impact you can make with an approach towards clean simplicity, keeping the natural body lines of his hawk-eye in tact and true to their designer’s original intent.  The details bred into the Subaru’s 4th generation of STI keep this build true to its roots, but far from stock. While I admit it took me a long time to accept some of the re-stylings done by Subaru on this Impreza, a build like this does a good job convincing all those in doubt that they can still induce violent double takes with the best of them.

Stance Stories: Tell us about yourself and how you got into the car culture.

Zach Spusta: Well, my name is Zach and I was born and raised here in sunny Southern California. I’ve been into cars practically my entire life, so I figure it was more than likely a natural addiction. An instinct of sorts. I’ve always leaned towards imports and the thrill you get from ripping them around a race track at high speeds, feeling the g-force as you enter a corner. It’s almost an obsession.

Stance Stories: How did you obtain your car and why did you choose it?

Zach Spusta: The hawk eye has always been my dream car. Through a lot of hard work and sleepless nights I finally saved enough money to buy my own 2007 STI in the famous World Rally Blue. I chose it as a build because I knew the platform had what it took to impress the masses with the plans I had swirling around my head.

Stance Stories: What do you feel sets your car apart from other similar builds?

Zach Spusta: I feel my baby stands out from all the others almost solely because you can tell how much love I have put into it. The condition of the car is immaculate and I keep it as if it were my own flesh and blood. The major thing that catches peoples attention is the license plate though, go figure?

Stance Stories: What are your future goals and plans for this project?

Zach Spusta: I have quite a few big plans for the future of the car. As most car enthusiasts are aware, a project is never really done. With that said, I plan on getting a little more technical with the car and get it ready to dominate the track. Lots of suspension and performance modifications lay in the very near future for me and the Subaru.

Stance Stories: Is there anyone you would like to thank that has helped you on the road to getting your build to where it is today?

Zach Spusta: There are so many people I’d like to thank for helping my car get to where it is. All the folks who pitched their ideas and helped throw things together to get her riding right. Also, a big thank you to everyone who took a chance trying to get my car noticed. Gus from Gus R. Photography, my friend Brandon from Bean Bag Photography, and now, of course… Stance Stories for compiling my first complete feature to hit the web. So big ups to Aleksey and Ali as well everyone behind the scenes I didn’t get a chance to meet.

Wheels, Brakes, & Tires

• Work Emotion XD9 Wheels (18″x10″ +18 All Around)
• Federal SS 595 Tires (225/40/18 All Around)
• Work Wheels Anodized Blue Lug Nuts
• Brembo Stage 2 Big Brake Kit
• Custom Japan White Wheel Faces
• Custom Painted Blue Brake Calipers

Suspension & Bracing

• BC BR Extreme Low Coilovers
• BC Rear Extenders
• BC Front & Rear Camber Plates
• Ingalls Front & Rear Camber Bolts
• STI Front & Rear Sway Bars

Exterior & Cosmetics

• ChargeSpeed Bottom Line Front Lip
• ChargeSpeed Bottom Line Rear Valance
• ChargeSpeed Bottom Line Side Skirts
• Custom “STI OMG” Vanity License Plate
• Authentic Version8 STI Tail Lights
• Subaru OEM+ Window Visors

Interior & Electronics

• STI Blue Bucket Seats
• STI Shift Knob
• Scooby-Doo Plush Doll

Engine & Performance

• TurboXS 4.00″ Down Pipe
• TurboXS 3.00″ Cat-Less Racepipe
• TurboXS Cat-Less Cat Back Exhaust
• SPT Short Ram Intake System
• TurboSmart 50/50 Dual-Port Blow Off Valve
• Cobb Accessport Software

It is our conclusion that this build should serve as an inspiration to a new breed of car enthusiast. It represents a shining beacon of creativity, a chance to show everyone that in todays society beauty can still be found in even the simplest things in our day to day life. It stands to demonstrate to the masses that you don’t need to have deep pockets and crazy modifications to impress and shock the world. Sometimes all it takes is a keen eye, passion, and a little ingenuity.

• Story by Aleksey Royt & Max Montague
• Photos by Aleksey Royt
• Video by Ali Aletaha
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

The car culture isn’t always about going out and gravitating around a parking lot with the sickest builds in town. Sometimes it’s about kicking back with some incredible people and just relaxing. Taking time to forget about all the problems waiting for you at work, or at home. Letting go of your inhibition and being yourself around the people who make the days worth grinding through. First Friday’s by Mulholland Auto Club is a monthly car meet that lets most of us do just that. Get together with a great group of enthusiasts and let our hair down. If you’ve never been to one of their meets, read on and find out about what you’ve been missing out for the last few months. 

For those of you who remember, a few months ago we shot coverage on a small meet at MB2 Raceway in Newbury Park that was dubbed Summer’s Last Stance. This monthly meet was the brain child of the same creators over at Mulholland Auto Club. The meet usually averages eighty to about one hundred cars. Now we know what you may be thinking, it’s not really all that much. However, the quality of not just cars but people that attend this monthly meet more than makes up for the lack of numbers present at the event.

Wether your into hardcore stance, american muscle, something a little more exotic (like Roy Disney’s Lotus Exige pictured above.) the meet provides a little something everyone can relate to and enjoy. A quality that is fairly rare in local meets now a days that tend to cater to only one specific group of enthusiasts at a time. It’s much more interesting to get a small variety of enthusiasts together to discuss there builds and leave with new ideas, than show up to a meet with hundreds of similar cars and go home with the same level of creativity you showed up at the show with that night.

This Scion TC caught my fancy pretty quick. I’m a big fan of the white ESM wheels with gold rivets, but upon approaching the car for a closer look I was drawn in by something much more colorful. Though you can’t see it in the photo above, this Scion has a gorgeous pearl flake coat over the OEM-style ghostly white paint job. With a mix of orange, green, and blue flakes this car really sets off under the right lighting situation. Unfortunately, this was not the case in the dingy and poorly lit parking lot. 

If you guys saw our Krispy Kreme coverage, then you probably remember this Home Depot looking track built S2000. Equipped with weather proofing wide body, and a diffuser that bolts into the license plate. It’s hard for me to decide wether this build is an ingenious attempt at building a track car, or a complete flop. You can make your own conclusion while we ponder ours.

Before I share my final thoughts I’d like to take a second to announce our newest sponsored car. Kyle Jones and his pig-nose 240SX is being added to our family as our first sponsored Drifter. Kyle has been a very good friend of mine personally for a long time, and I’m so glad to see he finally got everything together and tuned to damn near perfection to compete next season. We love you here Kyle, and we can’t wait to see what you do in your first season of Pro-Am going into next year!

With everything said, First Fridays proves to be a perfect way to relax and unwind after a long week of grinding the nine to five. Daniel and the rest of the M.A.C crew do a fantastic job putting on a family friendly environment with tons of laughs and smiles everywhere you turn. We have been, and will continue to attend every month; just as you should take the time to drive out and check it out for yourself. Who knows, you might become a regular?

• Story by Aleksey Royt
  
• Photos by Aleksey Royt
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

A few weeks ago we were fortunate enough to sponsor an event put on by the fine folks at Jeff Jones Racing and Racers Edge Karting. Stuff’t & Stanced promised to be an exciting way to spend a chilly Sunday, but what we didn’t expect was the colorful turnout and insane diversity presented at the show. The people and the atmosphere definitely made this show one of our favorite this year, even if it wasn’t the biggest we had attended. 

We were lucky enough to snag a booth by the DJ with spots for a couple cars. We didn’t expect it, but at the last second Super Street cover boy Michael Mao and his boy Eulises Torres to roll in and represent us at the event. It was definitely a welcome treat to see the two cars again for the first time in quite a while, but a huge honor to have them represent Stance Stories at the event.

As I mentioned earlier, what really made this show stand out was definitely the diverse crowd that rolled out. It’s been a while since I was able to ogle at some new cars rather than staring at the same prize winners at every event. The crowd was slammed with tons of old school Toyota’s, specifically a large group of Cressida’s that came out and broke everyones necks. I’ve always argued that there aren’t enough old school Japanese cars at shows, but I definitely got more than my fill this past weekend.

Of all the old schools, the true stand out came to be the car that we would eventually nominate for the “Photographers Choice Award”. The Zombie Cressida of SpeedHunters fame, running a screaming 2JZGE and some of the tallest bozuko pipes I have ever seen in person. Lloyd’s car is definitely an attention grabber that appeals to almost every type of car enthusiast, and we would love to see more of it around!

The dudes from Tailored car club rolled out to represent there team in force. It’s been a while since I’ve seen any of these dudes but there cars are always a welcome site. The black Kouki, RX7 FD, and 350Z are definitely my top three favorites from the club and it was cool to see them posted up together just a few feet away from our booth, and the builds definitely made for some good conversations with the owners.

For those of us who have been in the car scene for a while now, you know that shows and meets just aren’t the same without a good group of people to run around with. Lucky for us we were able to bring along some of the greatest dudes we know, like our boy Frank Dupon from Stage Six Motoring, whose always good for a few laughs… Not to mention a few beers.

If you’ve never heard of Frank or Stage Six Motoring. His up and coming new brand manufactures suspension components, racing seats, roll cages, and pretty much anything else you can possibly imagine. If your trying to stiffen up that chassis or going Pro Am, his business is worth checking out. He has some of the greatest prices in the industry, is an incredibly talented mechanic, and on top of that one of the most down to Earth, kindest, and most modest people we’ve ever met. Which is rare in our culture these days.

Speaking of you hardcore drift enthusiasts… If you follow Formula D, or hang out at Willow Springs, then chances are you’ve met Jeff Jones. Though you may know him as one of the top drifters around, what you don’t know is that Jeff also spins a sick record. Let this be the proper introduction for our boy… DJ Jeff Jones. Catch him on tour… Well… Nowhere.

When we said there was a diverse crowd we meant it. This awesome Yamaha bobber-style bike took home the “People’s Choice Award” and it was well deserved. With the strained relationship between the bike and car communities ever raging, it was cool to see something totally different. We at Stance Stories appreciate art no matter how many wheels it’s on, and this build totally blew us away, as well as the rest of the events patrons.

All in all Stuff’t & Stanced proved to be a wonderful way to spend our weekend. An incredible crowd and overall positive atmosphere made for an incredible show. It went to prove that you don’t need to have thousands of cars at a show to have a good time. All it takes is the right people, the right cars, and enough beer.

• Story by Aleksey Royt
• Photos by Aleksey Royt
• Video by Ali Aletaha
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

This past Saturday Geisha Events and 742 Marketing collaborated for a greater good and put on the “A Child’s Smile” benefit car show in Fullerton at the Extreme Dimensions warehouse. We were lucky enough to attend the event and I must say I feel it went pretty well for a show its size. With a very diverse palette of automotive styles to choose from it proved to be equal parts gladly surprising and remotely upsetting at the same time. If you missed the event we have all you need to know about the trophy winners, as well as some of the hidden gems some may have neglected to notice. 

I’d like to kick off our coverage with a bit of rant, as well as a hail of praise. Upon walking into the event I was instantly drawn in by this 1938 Chevy Pickup rat rod build. Though I was practically drooling over the car while I chatted with the owner, I found it kind of hard to stomach some of the comments I was hearing about the car as I wandered the grounds later on in the day.

As I roamed the area around the car inspecting every nook and cranny and practically salivating at the gorgeous work of art before my eyes I couldn’t help but notice some of the chatter behind. People saying things such as “Why does he have an air filter on top of his motor?” and “That car is disgusting, it really needs more paint and sanding.”, or my favorite “Who the fuck would build an old ass pickup when they can just buy a Honda and break twice as many necks.”, I must admit I lost faith in the human race that faithful Saturday. The art of the rat rod is dying in our generation and quite frankly, it’s sad. It saddens me that people can get away with putting a non-functional bike rack on there car and get praise, however a car built entirely from the ground up with hundreds of hours of hard work goes entirely unrecognized. For shame car community. For shame.

Moving along to slightly livelier topics, it was great to see Michael Mao and Eulises Torres roll out in there NSX and S2000 (respectively). We had just launched Michael’s feature the night before so it was good to see him and chat about his thoughts on our portrayal of his car. As usual the two went home with there fair show of awards; Eulises taking home Best Honda, and Michael taking home Best In Show, as usual, nobody was remotely surprised.

I’ve been seeing a lot of this orange Nissan GT-R around as of late on various different blogs and Facebook pages, but I had yet to see it in person. I have to say, after seeing and hearing the car. I understand the hype. This is one incredible example of the mighty beast that is Godzilla!

Creative artwork is always a cool thing to check out on cars. From bombed engine bays and interiors, to chalkboard components like the hood of our friend Oscar Fierro’s Audi A4. However, amongst all the creative paint, chalk art, drawings, and sharpie at the event these two stood out the most. The S2000 hardtop mostly for the fantastic Psyduck drawing that made me giggle like a 4 year old, and the Scion xB? Who can argue with a perfect rendering of Goku and Vegeta? If you don’t know what I’m talking about, your childhood was a waste.

Going back to cool cars I’ve spotted on the internet lately. I ran into this CR-Z I spotted on Street Functions not too long ago. I’ve yet to see one executed anywhere near as well as this one. Though it feels like it still needs a bit of a “wow factor” it’s still a pretty formidable build, and the fact that it’s female BUILT and driven makes it all that much special and original. Girl power for sure.

For lunch, my goons and I rolled out to purchase a feast most exquisite! Armed with close to $40 dollars of sweet tea, KFC, and Taco Bell we engaged in our glorious brunch party on the soggy pavement like the true gentleman we were. Whenever Danny Vu, Oscar Fierro, and Brandon Carr are around meets always seem that much more lively and exciting to me. So it was nice having the boys around to share the experience. It definitely made the meet that much more memorable for us. Danny winning Best Mitsubishi for his 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer build didn’t hurt either though!

If you’ve read our past coverage, I’ve often caught people in the act of eating ridiculous faces while they eat disgusting greasy food. Much to the subjects dismay, of course they go all over Facebook and the rest of the internet. The days victim was our good friend Brandon Carr munching on some friend chicken. We may actually have to start another tab on the website just for photos like these. In the mean time please try to refrain from laughing till your head explodes at the obliviously hilarious combination that is Brandon and his favorite food… Friend chicken and sweet tea.

Between all the laughs, gorgeous cars, and trophies that went home with our friends; it was hard not to call this event a success. The turnout wasn’t the almost 800+ people that Facebook promised, but what meet or show really ever is? Regardless, unlike most this event served a valuable purpose to raise awareness and get help to children who really could use some extra smiles. Thank you to Extreme Dimensions and Geisha Events for bringing more awareness to a desperate cause in a way that everyone can notice, and an enormous thank you to all the patrons who donated toys and other goods to help the kids that really need it. It’s good to see our community giving back!

• Story by Aleksey Royt
• Photos by Aleksey Royt
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

If you have ever been to a car show or local meet then you know that feeling that builds in the crowd when a true show stopper first arrives. Everyone cranes their heads to define the roaring engine note, or to see past the already building crowd of people gathering to witness the glory. You find yourself getting more excited as the suspense builds. “What is that?” someone may shout from the crowd… Well, more often than not, you will find yourself staring at the monstrous beast Mike Mao’s gold-clad Acura NSX. 

Most NSX owners who opt to modify there super cars trend towards the car’s inherent race-bred history, but Mike shows influence from something a little more familiar to us here in Southern California. Chrome and gold-plating has been a staple of the lowrider and classic custom community here since there the conception of modifying, and it accentuates the car nicely in the form of 24 karat gold-plated Mugen MF10 wheels matched to his equally shining components that lay in wait under the cars 2-piece bonnet.

Question: Tell us about yourself, and how you got involved in the car scene.

Michael Mao: My name is Michael, and I hail from Long Beach. I’ve been in the car scene for over a decade with countless numbers of projects. I’ve always been attracted to the slammed and fitted style builds. It started with my dumped S2000 on CCW’s, but I felt like it wasn’t good enough for my standards. Which brought me to my newest build, the Acura NSX.

Question: Tell us how you obtained your car and why you chose it.

Michael Mao: The NSX was always my dream car, like it is for so many other people. So after when it came to choose my next project the choice for me was clear. I finally came across the car in San Diego, it did have a few mods already done to it, but what really pulled me in was the suspension, TaiTec bumper, and TaiTec diffuser. Everything else that the previous owner had on the car came off.

Question: What do you feel sets your car apart from others in the scene?

Michael Mao: What makes my ride different is I try and ensure all my parts are 100% custom and original. So I’m a fan of crazy wheels and ridiculous fabrication designs. Wether people love it or hate it is the last thing on my mind when I go into the build process. I think my car is absolutely perfect. I did a full on one off custom twin turbo kit with the help of Efren Garcia at BoomBop Inc. The mad scientist Sam Kang over at WheelFlip honed the perfect look for my wheels to really set off the rest of the car, and it’s unique fitment.

Question: What are your future plans for the project?

Michael Mao: The project has come quite a long way and it’s almost done to where I can call it completed. I am planning a subtle wide body to beer up the look of the car, as well as some light interior work. Also, I’m looking to chrome out all the turbo piping and suspension components. I’m trying to build a car that is equal parts trailer queen, and beast of the streets.

Question: Is there anyone you’d like to thank thats helped you on the road to getting your build to where it is today?

Michael Mao: I have to start off by thanking all of my sponsors. Efren Built, BoomBop Inc., TDA Motorsports, Toyo Tires, SmartWax, DownForce USA, Forbidden USA, and my incredibly supportive crew over at itsJDMyo! Also, a special thanks to the Chronicles, and most of all, my brother Bay Mao who has stuck behind me through thick and thin. I couldn’t have done it without him!

Wheels, Brakes, & Tires

• Mugen MF10 24K Gold Dipped Wheels (17″ x 9″ Front)
  
• Mugen MF10 24K Gold Dipped Wheels (18″ x 10″ Rear)
• Toyo Proxes T1 Sport Tires ( 235/40/17 Front)
• Toyo Proxes T1 Sport Tires ( 245/40/18 Front)
• Evasive Motorsports Titanium Lug Nuts
• Toyo Proxes T1 Sport Tires ( 235/40/17 Front)
• APR Extended Wheel Studs
• StopTech Big Brake Kit
• StopTech Stainless Steel Brake Lines

Suspension & Bracing

• Swift JRZ-RS Coilovers
  
• NSX-R Front Chassis Bar
• NSX-R Rear Chassis Bar
• NSX-R Front Sway Bar
• NSX-R Rear Sway Bar
• Energy Suspension Bushing Set

Exterior & Cosmetics

• TaiTec JGTC 2000 Front Bumper
  
• TaiTec JGTC Front Canards
• TaiTec Aluminum Underbody Diffuser Tray
• TaiTec Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser
• ViS NSX-R Carbon Fiber Hood
• SeiBon NSX-R Rear Trunk Spoiler
• DownForce Stacey’s Sideskirts
• DownForce Carbon Fiber NSX-R Side Scoops
• DownForce Carbon Fiber License Plate Bezel
• DownForce Carbon Fiber Side Diffuser
• DownForce Carbon Fiber Rear Window Garnish

Interior & Electronics

• Vision Limited Edition Steering Wheel
• Status Racing Special Edition Bucket Seats
• Takata 4-Point Racing Harnesses
• DownForce Center Console
• SOS Carbon Fiber Cluster Bezel
• NSX-R Shift Knob
• NSX-R Shift Boot
• Rapid Steering Wheel Hub
• TaiTec Custom Seat Rails
• Zandari Floor Mats
• NASA Certified Roll Cage
• NASA Certified Harness Bar
• Mugen Pedal Kit
• Mugen “Dont Miss Shift” Badge
• Alpine AVi-W203 Head Unit
• Alpine 5.5″ Component Speakers

Engine & Performance

• AEM EMS V1 Series 2
  
• NSX-R Torque Dampener
• Mugen Oil Cap
• OS Giken Twin-Disc Clutch Kit
• Efren Built Custom Twin Turbo Kit
• Garrett GT2871R Ball-Bearing Turbos
• HKS SSQV 4 Blow Off Valve
• Tial 38mm Waste Gates
• Injector Dynamics 1000cc Injectors
• DownForce Carbon Fiber
• WalBro GSS341 Fuel Pump
• Aeromotive Fuel Pressure Regulator
• DownForce Air Intake Scoop
• Dali Racing Carbon Fiber Coil Covers
• Odyssey Battery
• Polished Valve Cover
• Polished Charge Pipe
• Polished Oil Catch Can
• Polished Coolant Overflow Tank

Since we first saw Mike displaying his current gold dip heavy setup at the Motion Auto Show in Long Beach this year he has consistently been winning awards and serving as the background for countless cellphones, as well as being the newest cover boy for Super Street magazine. Mike and his NSX build are a show stopping example of what can happen to a Japanese super car when cared for by the right person.

Finally, we bring you a video from our new friend Ali Aletaha from ASVA Films. Do to very tight time constrains, it was very hard to get a solid amount of footage to complete a really high class video. However, instead of throwing away the footage Ali was able to make quite a stunning little teaser video with the footage he did get, and though it may be our shortest video to date. It may just be our favorite, and not to mention our classiest.

• Story by Aleksey Royt & Max Montague
• Photos by Aleksey Royt & Brandon Burke
• Video by Ali Aletaha
• Edited by Aleksey Royt

Each passion evolves from hobby, and that hobby stems from an idea or an experience. Much like every fire has an initial spark or a blaze. For me, the need to get behind a camera lens stemmed from playing competitive paintball with my friends for the last decade or so. Unlike car meets, there aren’t photographers waiting to snap photos of you and your friends at every outing or practice you attend. Many players don’t even get professional photos of themselves until they compete in major national events. With that said, I have been on a hiatus from the sport of paintball for the last 3 years, and decided to make the long trek back to SC Village this past Saturday to reunite with some old friends, and do what we do best. The boys put it down on the field, while I got my own shots behind the glass of my new Canon. 

Before the days of escaping reality at local meets and shows, paintball was the only release many of us had to escape the stresses of daily life. It was a chance to step into an almost alternate reality of sorts. A chance to live in another world for a day. Free from stress, heart ache, and head aches. A chance to see your friends and relax before getting back to the grind of the work week.

As I mentioned earlier, I have not seen the stale plastic turf of the paintball field since March of 2010, yet all my old mates welcomed me back with open arms. The car culture and paintball share a very similar sense of community and brotherhood. Everyone is always going out of there way to help others out. Whether your an old friend, or the new guy in town there are always people around to make your experience worth the over-priced admission and killer heat.

The nostalgia didn’t really set in until I first stepped onto the grimy yet glorious stretch of artificial grass and muck. From there it was like coming back to visit your parents, it felt like home. Warm and inviting with an incredibly strong sense of unity and family you could feel in the air. After all the hard work I’ve been putting into Stance Stories this past year, it was definitely a welcome change of atmosphere, and refreshing to able to experiment with something different.

If the mud and gunk soaking my 5 year old cleats wasn’t nostalgic enough, getting a few shots to the throat trying to grab some photos on the field was definitely a jarring memory. After a while though I was running out into the middle of the field with my grocery bag wrapped camera more aggressively then some of the players at the field that day.

It was nice to visit back with everyone and see how the younger crowd had grown and matured, and though there was a significant gap in the time we’d seen each other… It seemed as though we’d just seen each other weeks ago. So to everyone reading, thank you for making me feel more at home then I’ve felt in a long time. It definitely made the long drive, and over-priced gas worth it. I can’t wait to get out again, maybe this time I’ll consider getting back on the other side of the lens for a special guest appearance. 

Some of your first memories of cars may be working in the backyard with your dad as he taught you the name of all the tools you’d pass him while he tinkered around, or maybe what sparked your interest was a car meet you happened to turn up at completely by chance. For me, my love for photography started here on the paintball field, and getting back to my roots definitely helped me remember why I love doing what I do.

Maybe we all occasionally need a good hint of nostalgia to bring us back down to Earth and make us realize why we do what we love, and why we love it in the first place. Running an operation like ours can be taxing, and it’s nice to get out and unwind once in a while. I found this not only provided a relaxing escape, but helped me hone my skills and walk away with some creative new ideas to make Stance Stories a better blog, both from a writing, and photographers stand point. With that said, this could very well be a bit of a launch platform, expect to see some creative things from us really soon. This is still only the beginning.

• Story by Aleksey Royt
• Photos by Aleksey Royt
• Edited by Aleksey Royt