February 2008
I used to own a 1973 KE-25 from 1988 to 1996. Sadly, I had to sell that because I needed a brand new car for daily use. But now if given the chance I would like to purchase my old car again or at the least a similar model. But mint and priced within my budget KE-25's are hard to find.

Today the company I work for provides me with a new car for daily use and this has allowed me to purchase a 1980 Toyota Starlet KP-62. This will definitely be a fun car to be used during weekends only. Here are pics of the car when I got it.

Stock 4A-GE High Horse engine.

AP racing wheels on Yokohama A539's. However, I'm looking for the classic Toyota Old School look so I purchased a set of Tom's Igetta wheels from Doc Wallace M.(he has a ton of JDM parts for old school Toyotas. Great guy also). Now, I'm looking for the right size tires. Low profile 14's are hard to come by here in the Philippines. My preference is 195/45/14 if there is such a tire.

March 2008

Bought an original steering wheel from a drop hatch. Color does not match the interior of the car. However, steering wheel is in great shape, fits my car perfectly and gives better clearance for my legs. The Starlet is a bit small for my height.

Also, was able to source a second hand USDM gauge cluster from eBay. Was a bit pricey but it looked great. Great seller also. Thanks meangranma!

Here is the picture of the steering wheel and gauge cluster installed in the car. Thanks to Mr. Atong Ko of Ichi-Ban Motors for installing the gauge cluster and for properly connecting all of the gauges and lights.

Night time view.

The spending definitely does not stop.

While on the look out for 14 inch tires for my Tom's, I ran across a set of Made in Germany ATS wheels for sale in tsikot.com complete with center caps. The owner also has his own site here in cardomain.com and previously had these babies installed in his own great looking and very clean KP-62 Starlet. Apparently, he got a set of Campagñolo wheels so he's selling the ATS. Well, his loss is my gain. You can check out his site
at beemah_drivah .

Installed the wheels with 175/50 R13 Fulda Carat Tires. Fulda's IMHO seem to have a softer ride compared with Yokohama A539's. Downside is that the Fulda's tend to wear out faster than the A539's. Let me know your comments on this please.