MotorEx 2023

With a record number of unveils and so many spectacular, new builds across all halls, finding a favourite at this year’s Meguiar’s MotorEx was not an easy task. The judges deliberated long and hard before deciding on their top picks which are, without a doubt, Australia’s finest show cars. Of course tastes vary and we all have our own biases, so below, in no particular order, are our own favorites.

Adam Rogash’s 1970 MK1 Capri. Powered by a 3000hp, twin-turbo, 596ci Big Block Chevy and aiming to run consistent 6-sec passes, this car sets a new standard for dedicated street and track cars.

“It’s got everything from page six of the Haltech catalog to the end! Including a Nexus R5, PD16 and sensors on just about every moving part for data collection when their radial racing journey begins.”

Steve Holland’s WRXMini started its life as a genuine 1961 Mini but is now powered by a mid-mount EJ25 sourced from a 2010 Subaru WRX. The WRX also donated the gearbox, which, remarkably, still fits! It’s all controlled by a Haltech Elite ECU. The RWD Mini is a stunner and, we are told “lots of fun to drive”.

Trent Blainey’s 1800hp Group A Walkinshaw VL replica is a true work of art. The attention to detail is mind-blowing as is the overall build quality and finish. Built by Total Workz and MPW Performance, powered by a twin-turbo 427ci Dart LS and controlled by a full Haltech system from end to end.

This beautifully presented Holden Rodeo Mini Truck was built by Darrell Leemhuis and runs a 2.6L 4ZE1 with a GT35R turbo. The setup is controlled by the old-faithful Haltech E6K. The ECU might be getting a little long in the tooth now, but hey, if it ain’t broke….

Chris Pearson’s 1972 HQ is powered by a 468ci big block with a 6/71 blower, BAU injector hat with Jo-Blo EFI conversion. The whole lot is controlled by a Haltech Elite 2500 ECU.

And how’s this for a modern touch – the interior has been custom-adapted from a VF GTS-R complete with a dash console, seats and even door trims. Aussie utes don’t get much better than this!

Matt McIntosh’s HQ Statesman followed its Summernats success with a whole bunch of awards at Meguiar’s MotorEx for bodywork, engine, and undercarriage. The Statesman is powered by a twin-turbo SBC and controlled by Haltech’s Nexus R5 VCU.

One of the coolest Silvias at this year’s show was the STNDBY S15. Beautifully finished in House of Kolor’s Kandy Apple Red and powered by our “engine of the month” SR20DET with Wiseco pistons and Tomei cams. Boost comes via Garrett GTX3071R turbo with a 6Boost manifold. The whole package is controlled by a Haltech Elite 1500 ECU with an iC-7 dash displaying all the necessary information.

It’s hard to stand out in a sea of Toranas at Meguiar’s MotorEx but Heath’s 1978 LX hatch achieved exactly that, and more. Looking amazing in its blue and orange livery, the Torana is powered by a Holden 383ci V8 with ITBs and controlled by a Haltech Elite ECU. Nicely done!

This absolutely stunning 1989 VN Commodore features a custom Group A Kit and is powered by a 6L alloy block with a billet, 8-71, 3-lobe Teflon Blower from The Blower Shop. Controlled by a Haltech Elite 2500.

Those pesky Barras find their way into everything! This 1976 Jaguar XJC looks absolutely stunning in British racing green and with its tastefully restored interior. But what’s that in the engine bay, we hear you ask? Oh, yes, it’s the Australian iconic straight-six – sourced from an FPV FG F6 Typhoon.

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