Team Hybrid EVO IX Lands PAS Feature

Charleston Panesa and his 2006 Mitsubishi EVO IX with AMSOIL under the hood has been turning heads in the tuner scene for some time now. A member of Team Hybrid based out of California, Panesa recently landed a feature article in Performance Auto & Sound Magazine titled Generation Nine.

Team Hybrid consists of a group of close-knit enthusiasts who share the same passion for cars, with the philosophy of creating vehicles with total package capabilities: Race-Street-Show. They all know what it takes to make a star in a scene where competition is rampant.

Panesa started his EVO IX project with the goal of creating a show car that could still hold its own as a street car. He succeeded, turning this show-worthy ride into a daily driver capable of over 500-awhp. That much horsepower on a street car alone earns him respect, in addition to the many tweaks and mods that make this EVO IX so unique. He uses E85 fuel, which has major advantages to tuner owners with increased horsepower, lowered cooling charge temps, and reduced emissions. The modification list is extensive, with everything from the inside out redesigned to make it the stunner it is today. From the wide-body kit with its gleaming Tangelo Pearl paint to the explosive sound system installed, it looks every bit the part of a winning show car.

Tuner owners seek out only the best products to stand out and enhance performance, which is how AMSOIL came to be the lubricant of choice for Panesa. We'll be keeping up with Team Hybrid as they continue solidifying their reputation as a leader in the tuner market.

Tuner Evolution Revolution

AMSOIL has joined forces with Fox Marketing in an effort to spread the AMSOIL word (even more than it already is) in the tuner world. On Saturday, August 15 at the Toyota Arena in York, PA hundreds of tuners are expected to turn out for Tuner Evolution 2009 and compete for various titles. AMSOIL has been keeping close tabs on the tuner industry where the excitement is rampant and there is always something new and fresh. This year the AMSOIL presence is even bigger, and is always gaining momentum due to its reputation of quality and superiority over other products. Tuner owners won’t use just any old lubricants in their expensive engines… hence our strong affiliation with this industry.

This year AMSOIL is installed in what are sure to be some of the hottest tuners in the entire arena. First up is S-Max Intercoolers, a Race Prepped Nissan 240 built by Dave Hary to be featured in the AMSOIL booth. Dave has an established track record within the industry, and we have had the pleasure of sponsoring other vehicles of his in past events including SEMA. His vehicles are always a hit both on the street and on display, and AMSOIL is pleased to once again be associated with this talented builder.

Over in the Fox Marketing booth, be sure to look for a couple more sweet rides with AMSOIL 0W-30 under the hoods: A 2009 Twin Turbo 625hp wide body Lexus IS F, a 2008 Focus Coupe, and the debut of the 2010 Lexus IS350C. With awards ranging from the usual ‘Best in Show’ and ‘Best in Class’, to the unusual such as ‘Outstanding Female Ride’ and ‘Outstanding Old School Ride’, the Tuner Evolution show is sure to make your jaw drop. Come see for yourself why the tuner movement is growing, with no signs of stopping.

Photo Caption: Billboard (top right) for the upcoming Tuner Evolution features an AMSOIL lubed Lexus by Brian Fox of Fox Marketing. Dave Hary's builds (S-Max at left) always generate heart-pounding excitement.

AMSOIL + Tuners = High Profile Performance

AMSOIL is always on the lookout for sweet tuners, and owners of said tuners are always on the lookout for the best products. This is where our paths cross, and performance is taken to a new level for these impassioned tuner builders. Below are two hot rides currently in the national spotlight with feature coverage, and of course AMSOIL is under the hood.

The cover story for the July issue of DSport Magazine features a JDM Nissan Silvia S13, built by Mike Sullivan of Mishimoto Automotive. Originally meant to be a show car for SEMA, Mike decided to kick it up and use it to compete in drift and time-attack events as well. This led to a time constraint since it needed to be complete in time for SEMA, but through determination and sheer drive Mike pulled it all off. Enlisting the help of Kenny Strickler of Turbochargers.com, his crew stripped the car down to a bare shell and prepared it for the paint job. Meanwhile, work was being put into the cage, chassis and selection of aerodynamic packages and tires. An SR20DET engine was removed and upgraded for power increases, and hydraulic lifters were replaced to enable the use of higher-lift, solid-lifter camshafts. A few more tweaks later the completed project turned up at SEMA with Mishimoto’s trademark orange and black paint, ready for its close-up.

Next up is Tony Nguyen and his 93’ Mazda RX-7, featured in the July issue of Super Street. Nguyen is already a rising star in the tuner industry, and this latest feature is testament to his talent. The RX-7 is hailed as Mazda’s most legendary ride due to the design, engine format, lightweight chassis and all-around sports-car feel. Decked out in BASF Tungsten Pearl Silver Paint usually found on a Lexus, this Mazda is a head-turner. Running a 13B-REW motor, Nguyen has squeezed 345 horses out of a standard 276 horsepower engine by installing an A’PEXi AVC-R Turbo-boost controller, fuel pump and GReddy intercooler and pipes. Interior modifications include A’PEXi gauges that light up the seats, and a center console filled with switches and embedded gauges. Built exclusively for weekend street racing, the RX-7 is the manifestation of Nguyen's vision to leave a cloud of dust for everyone else to catch up to.

The five page spread in Super Street is resplendent with sponsor logos, but the shot above give you a glimpse of the start point. Tony sent us a very strong endorsement note to go with this story. Nice!

I have recently been running AMSOIL products on all my cars and I must say that this is the BEST product I have ever used hands down! I have used other competitors' products in my car, from synthetic oil to octane boosters and I must say there is no other product on the market that can compare to the quality of AMSOIL synthetic oils. I will continue to use AMSOIL products for the life of all my vehicles. Whether it is for normal day to day use or high performance race and drag applications AMSOIL is my #1 choice.

Thank you,
Tony Nguyen

AMSOIL Lubricates Three High Profile Cars in the Big Apple

The 2009 New York Auto Show is underway at the Jacob Javits Center in New York. This is one of the world's premiere events for showcasing the latest and greatest in the auto scene. Though some of the glam has been muted due to the rocky economic terrain for U.S. automakers, it's still a prestigious ten day event.

This year, John Pangilinan’s aggressive wide body SCION TC struts up front in the SCION booth running a full line of AMSOIL products. SCION introduced the new iQ at the show which is making this booth a huge media draw.

Over in the Lexus booth is the Fox Marketing/Artisan 625hp Twin Turbo Lexus IS F. Hip Hop Artist Jadakiss was on hand to promote his new TV show on MTV which comes out this summer, the IS F as a background. Jada then took a few shots with the car, hopped inside, and fell in love all over again.

A major source of buzz at the New York Auto Show this year has been the National Guard Black Ops 350Z. Here's the backstory on this tuner's dream car.

Sgt. Nicholas Ashby of the California Army National Guard (CAARNG) became part of the 2007 Hot Import Nights Tour with a rolling memorial he built for three fellow Guardsmen who lost their lives in Iraq. The Fallen Heroes car was a very popular attraction at the National Guard display among attendees and won more than 23 trophies throughout the season. In 2008, the National Guard and Sgt. Ashby built a tuner car that used the Citizen Soldier as an inspiration. "I built and designed the new Citizen Soldier Tuner to show the fine line of being a Citizen and a Soldier," said Ashby. For 2009, Sgt. Ashby is back with the Black Ops 350z that combines the spirit of The National Guard with the performance of a race car. At the heart of this striking beast you'll find AMSOIL synthetic motor oils lubricating all the moving parts to provide optimal performance throughout.

The Black Ops 350Z will be attending Hot Import Nights shows around the country throughout the year. If you get a chance, ask the personable Ashby how he combined his Passion for Cars and his Service to Country to create the Official Guard Tuner.

"The Guard can help you to find your passion in life. It's where I found mine." ~Sgt. Nicholas Ashby

Cool Blue Continues To Look Hot

"Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude." ~Marston

John Pangilinan and his 2009 Scion tC just completed a photo shoot for Toyo Tires. AMSOIL has been a sponsor of this talented builder for the previous couple of years, and has been keeping up with this rising star in the tuner industry. With plenty of achievements already under his belt, his most recent was a 1st place win at the annual Scion Tuner Challenge that won him a trophy and $10,000. Not bad for fueling your passion.

From the first project car, a 2000 BMW 3-Series, John has tasted success. That first project car won him over 40 awards, was featured in the film Herbie: Fully Loaded and also featured in a national advertising campaign for Meguiars Car Care. As a result of the national and international coverage of the BMW, John emerged with both respect and experience in the tuner world.

AMSOIL teamed up with John two years ago when he was exhibiting at the SEMA show. We caught up with him a few months ago and asked some questions about his passion for the tuner market.

AMSOIL: How long have you been involved in building cars?
JP: I’ve been building cars since I was 16, but back then it was mostly to impress the girls in high school. During my college and after college years I really became involved in entering car shows such as Hot Import Nights and Import Showoff. Eventually this lead to winning awards and receiving magazine coverage along the way. After I retired my last show car I started consulting on various project cars for different clients and companies. This SEMA I was asked to participate in the Scion Tuner Challenge, where I will compete against 3 other builders with a Scion tC.

AMSOIL: How many vehicles have you built to date?
JP: I’ve built a few vehicles including my 2000 BMW Widebody E46, the Motegi Racing G35, BN Sports Nissan S14 drift car, and my current project a 2009 Scion tC.

AMSOIL: What is your favorite part of being a builder, and why?
JP: My favorite part of being a builder is incorporating personal style and creativity into the project. I really enjoy being able to design the look and feel of vehicles and seeing the end result.

AMSOIL: Do you have a philosophy on the goals you want to achieve in this industry?
JP: I would like to leave a lasting impression in this industry and enjoy my time in it. I have made some really great friends along way and nothing beats doing what you enjoy.

AMSOIL: What is your proudest achievement in this arena?

JP: There are a few proud moments for me including my first cover of a magazine, winning Best BMW overall in 2004 by the NCCA, and being chosen as a builder in 2008 for the Scion Tuner Challenge.

My ideal car to build on would be an Audi R8 because I think it would be a challenge to make an already amazingly designed car even better.

AMSOIL: Do you do this Full-time? Part-time? As a hobby?
JP: I build vehicles part-time and as a hobby. I consult on various builds for clients throughout the year, but never really have 100% control over it. That is why I was very excited to be part of the Scion Tuner Challenge for SEMA this year.

AMSOIL: Do you have a favorite AMSOIL product in addition to the oil?
JP: I really like the P.I. as it improves the fuel mileage and reduces exhaust emissions. I like to be green whenever possible.

Look for John’s 2009 Scion tC in upcoming Toyo Tires advertisements and promotions.

AMSOIL Lubed and Hot Blue

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." ~ John Quincy Adams

John Pangilinan is no stranger to winning car builds. His first project car, a 2000 BMW 3-series, won over 40 awards, including NCCA Best BMW nationwide in 2003. The BMW gained national and international media coverage that included magazine features in over a dozen titles with numerous covers. From the start his work became a source of inspiration for other builders.

At the 2008 SEMA Show earlier this month Pangilinan’s AMSOIL lubricated, hot blue Scion won 1st place in the annual Scion Tuner Challenge. The award consists of a trophy, gear from Sparco, and $10,000 cash.

The car will be at the upcoming LA Auto Show and Detroit Auto Show. After that, the Scion will go tour across the country for various events as a display vehicle. It will also be featured in Max Power UK and Modified Magazine with details on the build.

Pangilinan, a veteran builder with 8 years under his belt, knows that a winning build requires both styling and performance. Thanks, John, for recognizing the contributions AMSOIL synthetic motor oils and drive train fluids can make toward achieving your endgame.

Hottest Tuner of All Time?

“Excellence is doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.”
~ John W. Gardner

The 10th anniversary edition of Import Tuner magazine features one super-jammin’ Integra with the headline, “Why This Integra Is The Best Tuned Car EVER.” It’s certainly got the look, and the feel, and the power. And it’s lubricated with AMSOIL.... which means this gold Integra is golden inside and out.

The feature story, which begins on page 70, highlights why Chris Rios’ turbocharged Acura Integra DC2 is a perfect pick to represent the past ten years of the Import Tuner scene. According to Ric Faderoga the Acura Integra is to tuners as Muhammed Ali is to boxing. Besides being reliable, sporty and affordable, it’s “filled with an infinite amount of tuning potential.”

Rios, who grew up watching his dad and uncle building cars in Boston, bought this ’94 Integra DC2 the minute it came into production. “It was love at first sight.”

The car is featured on the cover of this month’s Import Tuner (Congrats, Chris!) with full details within about the features that make this ride special. Attention to detail is what puts top tuners in the driver’s seat... and gets them on the covers of top mags. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are certainly a contributing variable not to be overlooked when you have an investment like this one to protect.

Or as Perry Paxton so aptly put it, "Excellence is in the details. Give attention to the details and excellence will come."

CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE

Emotional Connection

Congratulations to Huy Nguyen, whose '02 Honda S2000 is featured on the cover of this month's Modified Magazine. Spiffed to the hilt with a full array of engine modifications to its F20C 2-liter VTEC engine, Nguyen had to bounce back from a painful setback when the original Civic he'd intended to modify got stolen right in front of his home.

To his credit, the Virginia native poured his energy and passion into the s2000 featured in the magazine. Holding back nothing, he gave attention to every detail, inside and out, including the all important AMSOIL lubricants which keep this very hot car running smooth and cool.

Full feature story in the October issue of Modified.

AMSOIL Synthetics Give Edge to Import Tuner

For a cool story about a hot Subaru, check out the May 2008 issue of Import Tuner Magazine. The six page feature story, "God Don't Like Ugly," begins on page 76. The cover shot is especially sweet with the AMSOIL logo prominent enough, and more so inside.

Ad Age online describes the tuner scene in this way:

"Tuners: They're young, auto-savvy trendsetters willing to spend money customizing or 'tricking out' their cars. It's a Fast and Furious crowd, an urban, hip-hopping car culture with a contemporary twist on the baby boomers' muscle-car era of the 1960s that has inspired everything from specialized magazines to movies and video games."

Import Tuner is one of the leading magazines covering this sector. Some of the hottest tuner cars are listed below.

Chevy Cavalier 1981-2004
Dodge SRT-4 2003-Present new age horsepower wars

Honda Civic 1972-Present

Mazda RX-7 1993-1997

Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 2003-Present turbocharged AWD

Nissan 240SX 1989-1998
Nissan 350Z 2003-Present
Subaru WRX 2002-Present (2005 STI featured here in this story.)

Toyota Supra 1993-1998

The demand for high-performance modifications continues to remain strong, fueled by countless new products, technological developments, and raging dedication and excitement among its dedicated tuner customer base. It's fun to see AMSOIL in the thick of it.