Is Baggsy’s 2JZ‑Powered GR Corolla the Next Drift King? – All Details Ahead of TRAX 2024

What makes a GR Corolla a viable drift platform?

When seasoned drifter Steve “Baggsy” Biagioni announced his intention to transform a Toyota GR Corolla into a competitive drift machine, the automotive community knew the project would be anything but ordinary. The GR Corolla, launched as a performance‑focused hot hatch, already boasts a lightweight chassis and aggressive aerodynamics – traits that lend themselves well to sideways action. Yet converting it into a drift car requires far more than a simple power‑add‑on; it demands extensive chassis work, bespoke cooling solutions and a powertrain that can survive sustained high‑rev, high‑torque use.

Proven Power – Why a DY 2JZ?

Baggsy’s answer to the power dilemma is a DY‑built Toyota 2JZ inline‑six. In his own words, “There is only one engine from the start because of the reliability we have found using this particular engine – the DY 2JZ.” The 2JZ has a legendary reputation in the drift world, having powered countless Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ builds with near‑flawless dependability. Baggsy notes the engine’s track record in his own GT86 project, where “all we have literally done is change oil, change the oil filter and put fuel in it.” This proven durability makes the 2JZ a sensible, rather than exotic, choice for a build that will see constant high‑load use on the track.

Fabrication Work – How is the chassis being re‑engineered?

The GR Corolla’s original layout has been radically altered to accommodate the larger powerplant and to achieve optimal weight distribution. A Radium fuel cell has been repositioned to the centre of the chassis, necessitating a custom‑fabricated mounting system and a hand‑built firewall. Large sections of the rear floor have been removed to improve airflow and to house an upgraded cooling package, while the transmission tunnel has been widened to accept a Quaife limited‑slip gearbox.

When a planned steering‑lock kit fell out of stock, the team devised a bespoke solution using a BMW E92 steering rack combined with 3‑D‑scanned components fabricated to match the Corolla’s front geometry. This type of rapid problem‑solving underlines the engineering skill required to turn a modern hatchback into a drift‑ready monster.

Overcoming Setbacks – What challenges have been faced?

Throughout the build, the team has faced typical supply‑chain delays and the occasional missing off‑the‑shelf part. Instead of stalling, they have pivoted to in‑house solutions, exemplified by the custom steering lock mentioned above. Each fabrication decision – from the relocated fuel cell to the cut‑away rear floor – serves a clear performance purpose, reinforcing the project’s focus on reliability and competitive drift capability.

When will the 2JZ‑powered GR Corolla hit the track?

The next major milestone is the installation of the engine into the Corolla’s chassis – a moment Baggsy describes as “a magic moment when we see this engine in the Corolla.” The build is slated to make its public debut at TRAX Silverstone on 16 August, competing in the Drift Kings category. TRAX is renowned for showcasing cutting‑edge engineering and side‑ways action, making it the ideal stage for Baggsy’s creation.

Fans can secure tickets to the event via the official TRAX website and experience the 2JZ‑powered GR Corolla’s first drift run live. If the build videos are any indication, this car could become one of the defining drift machines of the current era.

Get your TRAX tickets here.

Stay tuned to DealerPricing.co.uk for further updates on the build progress, technical specifications and post‑event analysis.