H20i featuring Scraped.Crusaders.
Although the weekend was filled with rain, thousands still traveled down(and up) to Ocean City, Maryland for one of the biggest VW shows on the East Coast. I met a lot of new people and had the chance to see some old friends. I got the opportunity to meet some of the guys from Scraped.Crusaders. Having been a fan of Gill’s Legacy for some time now, it was exciting to finally see it in person. If you haven’t already, you will definitely be seeing Matt’s, who goes by DeathLens on Flickr, photos floating around the net. He put together an impromptu shoot on our last night down there to really give the event a nice closing. Here is the result…
brian | arthus
Check out DeathLens’ Flickr HERE.
http://scrapedcrusaders.com/
Value Wheels
The image below displays a wheel that divides the house into two parties, one of which appreciates the appearance and price of the XXR wheel and the other, a party who will attempt to list every dissatisfaction with life (and death) that could possibly be related to the mag. In my opinion, as if counts anything anywhere but here, XXR has managed to release a wheel that not only works with the most budget minded tuner but is also relatively unique in comparison to their previous offerings and the products of other economy wheel companies. Win, Lose, or Draw? Win
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photocredit: unknown
Shaggin’ Wagon
This thing is awesome. Few things stand in your way between yourself and your dream girl if you’re driving this. One of such items would be your physique, your wallet… yeah the wallet thing concludes that list.
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masterpiece belongs to TTyphoon
DooDoo Brown…
Mike Wasserman’s Porsche Macadamia Metallic bugeye has been one of my personal favorites for quite some time now. I was able to grab a few shots of it at this past weekend’s Island Import Day. I look forward to getting a real shoot in of it sooner than later. Take a gander at these for now.
-Brian
What’s Next?
Time is running out, summer 2k11 is nearing an end, and within the next couple weeks I’ll be back sitting at my desk writing essays and figuring out 20+ step statistical equations in order to determine the best way a corporation should manage their financial risk. Soon the warm summer breeze will disappear once again for what seems like forever and the green grass covering my front lawn with vanish beneath inches of powdery white snow. Previously, when mother nature decided it was time to create ice skating rinks of our highways and back country ski slopes of our local roads my STi found itself forcibly sitting in the warm comfortable garage while others were out partying. Being that my gal sits only a couple inches off the ground and the procrastination to buy a winter wheel/tire setup got the best of me, I didn’t have much of a choice. But this winter I reckon things will be a bit different. This afternoon I found myself rummaging through winter threads on NASIOC and for the first time in a while I honestly got excited for the changing seasons.
Being that I want to move to South Beach or California within the next couple years this notition of excitement was a bit peculiar for even myself. When I was younger, as with any child, I loved nothing more than a snowball fight and an igloo build, but as I aged snow became nothing more than an inconvience to my lower back compliments of shoveling and a house arrest sentence being that I couldn’t drive anywhere without risking damage to my precious car. While I felt good about the fact that my car wasn’t getting pounded with salt and sand, I still felt like a bit of a piker seeing all my friends out and about snow drifting till early hours of the morning.
So after a little while on NASIOC I left and proceeded straight to google. My research has commenced and with a local set of 04-07 STi bbs stockers for sale it appears that this winter “Candice” will get to play with her Subaru friends. The coilovers will come off and get replaced with the stock suspension and if all goes to plan a roof rack will get fitted and my k2 ski’s will get thrown up top. I’d love to make it to Vermont more than a handful of times unlike previous seasons and closer Mountains like Mt. Creek will hopefully turn into my weekend home away from home. I might be jumping the gun with these thoughts being that September hasn’t even began but who ever said proper planning was a bad thing? Later!
-spilner
Winners Circle
The IvyLeagueEast family has grown far beyond its britches into realms that we’ve never thought were within reason a year ago. Having been featured on the “super-blogs” such as SpeedHunters, Canibeat and Just Stance the growth has been exponential and the experiences have been worth sharing.
Living in close proximity to the Hamptons, as you already know, Spliner, E, the most recent of age, Chris Amodei, and I made an appearance at Beach Bar, our Friday night shindig. Always planning ahead, E sourced two Four Lokos to alleviate Spilner’s race inspired driving but the alcohol only succeeded in developing unique conversational topics for the drive LOL.
The night slowly transitioned into early morning and winning is the only word that would accurately describe the evening. As I woke this morning I recalled that I had won a trip, for TWO, to a private island concert on behalf of BudLight. Without needing to further describe our Friday I’ll close with a most attractive hawk-eye STi equipped with classic BBS LMs amongst other complementary aero parts.
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The night
Waterfest 17. From a different lens…
Even though it was a scorcher, much fun was had during that fine Sunday. The early morning rendezvous only meant that we would be heading home earlier that day but I was fine with that. It meant escaping the heat (sort of, my car has no AC ughhhh) and beating some traffic (not really, we live on Long Island cmonnn). Either way here are some more shots that were taken that day. (The rollers were taken by Fran Matura.)
-Brian
Full set can be found here on Flickr.
Frank’s ride for the day…
Rolling out of the heavens…
RS4′s were plentiful in NJ that day…
Did I mention it was really hot out? That might explain their lack of pants. I hope…
The BOSS…
Enkei NT03 and STI = Love
Much like the S2000 and the Enkei RPF1, it seems that the STI (any generation) and the NT03 are a match made in heaven. What I admire most about Enkei is the brand provides quality light weight wheels at a reasonable cost. Might I add that they also have unique designs? Winning!
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Arceo Photos
Summer Slam…
Waking up early on a Sunday is not something that I usually look forward to, but this past weekend I was headed out to Raceway Park in Englishtown, NJ for the 16th annual Summer Slam. Being that my wheels were to be traded very soon I didn’t feel like risking any damage on those crappy NJ roads, so I hopped in with a friend and her Mini Cooper S. We were cruising with another friend on his Yamaha R6 so we were not alone on the drive. After some trouble with the EZ Pass and some paperwork at the toll for the Verrazano Narrows Bridge it was smooth sailing. I had never really been in a Mini for more than a short drive before so I was curious as to how the ride was going to be. Several weeks ago she had installed some BC Racing Coilovers and after we made some recent adjustments to them they rode great. Aside from some occasional rubbing from her stock wheels and giant tires everything was gravy.
After a short stop to take advantage of Jersey’s cheap gas and to scarf down some less-than-healthy BK breakfast sandwiches we pulled up to the gates at E-Town. Walking through the parking lot up to the grand stands and the pits where the show was held I could almost swear I saw the entire Rota wheel catalog. If the show was going to be anything like the lot was I was ready to head home, but I was pleasantly surprised once I walked through the pits. I was instantly bombarded with the potent aroma of combusted race gas. That combined with the style of drag cars present put a smile on my face. From the classic Toyotas, Datsuns to the old rotary Mazdas I was in awe of the actual size of these cars in person and the fact that they run sub 8 second 1/4 mile times at speeds in excess of 180 mph. From the pits we made our way over to the bulk of the show cars. Liberty VIP car club had some of the finest vehicles there. Those guys keep raising the bar every time I see them. There were a few hidden gems intertwined with the retarded sound systems and the Lambo doors.
To finish the day off, we baked ourselves in the sun on grandstands to watch some races. It started off slow but got really good as the faster classes took to the track. Watching a car dial in at 7.90 only to break out and watch the team get just as excited as if they had won was entertaining and refreshing as well. It’s that kind of excitement that let’s everyone know that they were really pushing the car to its fullest. All in all it was a great day and the event is definitely on my list for next year.
-Brian.
Check out the full set HERE.
Wicked Big Beattttttt (Meat, er Meet)
Last weekend, Stafford Springs, CT played host to North America’s Largest gathering of Subarus. As you could imagine my assumption that the lot would be filled with “stage 2″ WRXs and STIs was completely accurate but that’s what helps define what is genuinely special. Without black, there would be no white, without shitty friends there wouldn’t be best friends, you get the idea. That said below are some cars and people that I felt required some special attention.
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beyond the clouds there is a sunny day
Alan and JNA STIs arguably the best GRs this side of the country
white on white s2k :drool:
loyalty
bagged
the arthus breaking necks
Wicked Sun Burn…
This past Saturday I headed up to Stafford Springs Connecticut for the Wicked Big Meet. Spilner and Chris were headed up a little earlier due to the fact that Spilner’s car was to be featured in the EFI booth that day. I, on the other hand, was in no rush and was on the road by about 6 am. Those that know me well know I am forever late so this was after we had planned to be on the highway by 5:30. NBD.
The drive up could have been much worse. Being on the roads that early allowed me to experience the trip through metro NY without the usual bumper to bumper traffic. Win. This also made battling the warzone-like road conditions that much better. Let me tell you, NYC commuters do not appreciate you slowing down to 10 mph to go over expansion joints on the Throggs Neck Bridge!
We actually arrived about an hour earlier than the 10 am show time so we sat around and admired what was in store for us once we entered. This being an actual Subaru show I was hard pressed to find some other “fitment” enthusiasts. I did my best and scoped out a few including the BagRiders Impreza that was there. It was nice on the other hand to see the older GC’s in attendance with the numbers on their side. Definitely the most I’ve seen in one place. Some really nice representations as well.
Overall it was a great day. The venue was certainly large enough to support the 2000+ that showed up and it was really cool to see some race prepped vehicles doing their thing on the track. The one thing I did not plan for was the sun. I went home that day the same color as a lobster. Since the vendor area was hosted on the asphalt everyone baked out there. It was all worth it though. Vendors and attendees brought out their best to show off what the East Coast has to offer. Even a few from Canada made the trip down. I will be in attendance next year for sure.
-Brian
View the full set HERE.
Wicked!!
This past Saturday Spilner and I headed up north to Wicked Big Meet…..at 4am, but made some awesome time! Had to stop once on I-84 to re-fill the E-85, and knocked out (maybe killed) a little squirrel with Spilner’s front lip…. but after that, things went smooth. Here’s the shots I got and make sure you check out my Flickr for the rest of the photos!!
-Chris Amodei-
Click here for the full set!!!
And sorry to the kid that I iced!! But you took it like a champ, even though it was baking in the sun for a bit….
Island Import car show!
Spilner and I attended the Island Import show today. The Arthus showed up a bit late, but showed his face. Unfortunately the weather didn’t really want to cooperate with us, but at least the rain held off.. Very nice turnout with a bunch of nice cars. EEM was there as well with their nicely done VW’s and Audi’s. Here’s my coverage from today! Enjoy!!
Click here for the full set!!!
-Chris Amodei-
Summer’s Here…
With the recent heat that we have been having here on the Island, paired with the crazy hail-filled storm we were pelted with last night, I think it’s safe to say summer is in full effect. Pools are open and air conditioners are blasting. And for those of us who are “lucky” enough not to be graced with the wonder that is conditioned air, the windows are down and the breeze is blowing through our hair. Unless, of course, we are stuck in the traffic that plagues what seems to be every road traveled in the Tri-State area. Either way I am happy to see that the summer season is upon us because that means meets, cruises and car shows are here. Let’s make this year the best one yet.
-Brian
GST Motorsport Impreza L, 2011 Edition
Stepping away from the street culture for a second and moving towards the circuit I bring you the GST Motorsport’s Impreza L. Super aggressive.
Photocredit: Michael Warfield
Always Late!
I’m still amazed by the turnout we had for the Italian Ice meet this past Saturday. Thanks to everyone that made it out! It was one of the best days so far this season. I look forward to many many more just like it. That being said I would like to share the point of view from my lens. A good portion of these shots were taken by Fran Matura, who was my co-pilot for the day, so I have to give credit where credit is due. Check ‘em out.
-Brian
Check out the whole set HERE on Flickr.
I Heart Wagons.
After seeing this thing pop up on WrongFitmentCrew I had to share. The owner goes by TheGeeWag. Enjoy.
-Brian
Photo Credit: TheGeeWag
Good Day.
To say I was was surprised to see the sun shining when I woke up this morning would be an understatement. With all the crappy weather we have been having lately I just figured today would be just another example of the rain that April brings. Thankfully it was not. 24 years ago today I was brought into this world. The automotive community and lifestyle has made such a huge impact these past fews. My taste has changed but I can say that I am proud of every wrench turn and purchase that I have made in honor of my obsession. From eBay intakes to my first real set of BBS wheels, you take the bad with the good. I am looking forward to this summer wide-eyed with anticipation for fun filled days and nights. Car shows, road trips, and just nights spent in dimly lit parking lots discussing what the next big thing will be. I am aiming to make this year the best yet.
After waiting what seemed like forever for my new coilover parts to ship, they finally arrived this week. The timing is just right. If I had to wait another week I feel like I would have gone crazy!
And in honor of my imminent transition back into the world of S(aab)ubaru fitment I would like to share with you this WRX. Sitting pretty on some custom Miro STP1′s this car has me wanting to respray mine in a similar fashion.
-Brian
Some photos by: KameraBoy Photo
Static!
As I patiently wait for my new coilover parts to come in from BC Racing, friend and colleague in the fitment game Abbitt Wilkerson has already installed his. And damn, has he got me jealous! Just one shot to show the ride height of his 2004 STI. No air ride here.
-Brian
Photo by High Photography
Freezer Burn: STi
The phrase TGIF never seemed so fitting as this week clearly proved to be an extremely big nuisance. One complication, after another plagued my work load and the site designer has been busy fulfilling other obligations. But All was not lost as yesterday, Friday, my friends and I trekked into NYC to see Caspa, a dub-step DJ, at Webster Hall. The evening’s adventure quickly turned into morning and I was swept away by Spilner anxious to get to the Subaru specialist, EFI Logic’s, BBQ/Dyno Day/JNA Performance grand opening in Connecticut. Exhausted from Friday evening and all of Saturday’s festivities, I’m calling it quits early as tomorrow marks my first Auto-X.
FRENCH
Let’s hope we’ve seen the last of the snow
photo by CivicSeth
Street Wars 1 (Evo VS STi) Video
Better late than never. Here is a video I put together quickly using footage from Street Wars 1 (Evo Vs STi) at Englishtown Raceway, NJ on March 12, 2011
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Mr. Clean…
In the short time I have spent modifying cars and admiring the work of my peers, the concept that seems to rise above the rest is that less is more. Keep it simple. Keep it clean. You can spend thousands changing the appearance of your vehicle by adding lips, splitters, spoilers, vents and whatever else the aftermarket can throw at you but sometimes the factory just gets it right.
Seth Byers from Paducah, KY who goes by CivicSeth on the forums has a stunning example of what I am trying to explain. Seth was lucky enough to get his hands on a clean 2004 JBP Impreza STI. JBP, short for Java Black Pearl, was only offered for the 2004 model year. Actual production numbers are unknown but it is safe to say that there are not too many out there. Matched with a set of white wheels to contrast, this car really grabs your attention.
That being said I don’t want to waste anymore of your time reading my poor attempt at writing so I will get onto the pictures. All photo credits go to the owner himself, Seth Byers.
-Brian
Modifications:
- BC Racing BR Series Coilovers
- BC Racing Front & Rear Camber Plates
- Rear Camber Bolts
- Front & Rear Fenders Rolled
- 18×9.5 Rota Torque R +35 Offset w/ a 5mm spacer up front to clear the Brembos
- Short Shifter
- Turbo XS 4″ Bellmouth Downpipe
- Blitz Nur-Spec R 3″ Catback
- Injen Cold Air Intake
- HKS Turbo Timer
- Replica V-Limited Front Lip
Street Wars 1/ Evo Vs STi (From the Pits)
After discovering that only one of us,Jon or I, could shoot track side, I volunteered to shoot the pits as Jon’s lens are far superior than my nifty-fifty and kit piece. With temperatures peaking in the mid-fifties my trigger finger was on blast! as the Wintery weather weeks before had it well rested.
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Yupp.
It seems this Subaru has been spending a lot of time with it’s VW friends. I give it two thumbs up.
-Brian
Photo Cred to: Casey Dhnaram
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