Build Masters Toyota Starlet: A Classic Hot Rod Reborn with VW Power

The debut episode of Build Masters, sponsored by Gtechniq, showcases an extraordinary project: a Toyota Starlet KP61 that masterfully combines a poignant family legacy, motorsport-inspired engineering, and impeccable show-car aesthetics. This vehicle represents far more than a simple restoration; it is the culmination of a deeply personal, multi-year statement build.

A Family Legacy Brought to Life

The inspiration for this remarkable Starlet is rooted firmly in family history. The owner, Ash, developed a long-standing fascination with the model after his father raced one in the Hot Rod scene during the 1980s. This early exposure forged a dream that persisted for years. After an extensive search, Ash finally located a suitable left-hand-drive base car in Belgium, which became the starting point for an intensive three-year transformation.

Volkswagen ABF Power & Race-Proven Performance

Under the bonnet, the Starlet's original powertrain has been replaced by a potent 2.0-litre Volkswagen ABF engine sourced from a Mk3 Golf GTI. In a clever nod to the Hot Rods his father raced, the engine has been rotated 90 degrees to facilitate a rear-wheel-drive configuration. Producing a robust 220bhp, this powertrain delivers exceptional performance, particularly given the car's lightweight construction.

The build is equipped with serious race-ready hardware to handle the power. This includes a dry sump system, a Quaife 5-speed gearbox, a twin-plate clutch, an English rear axle, and a full fire suppression system. SHP Engineering dedicated three years to the fabrication and setup, ensuring the car is not only fast but also fundamentally functional and reliable.

Styling: TRD Aesthetics Meet Hot Rod Heritage

The car's exterior pays direct homage to his father's original Arena Essex racer. A TRD N2-style body kit, imported from Portugal, establishes the aggressive profile, complete with wide arches, a prominent rear wing, and an incredibly purposeful stance. The aesthetic is pure retro motorsport, from the period-correct Avon tyres mounted on 13-inch wheels to the motorsport-spec suspension featuring Nitron adjustable dampers.

Inside, the cabin is stripped for business. It features a custom-fabricated transmission tunnel, Cobra bucket seats, a minimalist dashboard, and neatly concealed electrics. Ash's dedication was such that he even sourced a rare right-hand-drive dashboard from Malaysia, but ultimately ended up creating his own custom moulded unit to achieve the perfect finish.

Built to Use, Not Just to Show

Despite its flawless show-quality finish, Ash was adamant that this Starlet be a practical driver's car. Thoughtful touches, such as a wrapped underside for durability and an easily touch-up-able paint scheme, demonstrate that it was designed for enjoyment on both the track and the street. As Ash himself states, "I've built it to use" – a philosophy that elevates this build from a static display piece to a truly special, functional machine.

More from the Build Masters Collection

The episode also features other impressive builds from Ash's collection, highlighting his dedication to the craft.

Build Masters Mk2 Escort

This build features a meticulously crafted Mk2 Escort Harrier, representing an eight-year labour of love. Packed with hidden details and powered by a 198bhp crossflow engine, its execution is flawless.

Build Masters Mk1 Escort RSR

This project takes things to an extreme with a spaceframed, EcoBoost-powered Ford Escort Mk1 RSR, engineered to be a competitive track monster.