Ruthlessly Roofless
In the automotive world, power and performance often take centre stage, however, there are those who embrace a different philosophy. Meet Chloe, a car enthusiast, gamer, and gym lover who has found a passion for the world of stance cars, proudly owning a 2001 Nissan Silvia Varietta.
Growing up in a small town surrounded by classic American muscle cars, Chloe's interest was ignited by her uncle's passion for vintage rides. However, it wasn't until she graduated high school that her fascination with Japanese cars and modifications truly took hold. What started as a distaste for driving transformed into an undeniable love for JDM cars.
In November 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chloe stumbled upon a hidden gem—the Nissan Silvia Varietta. Describing it as "ugly and gangster," she couldn't resist the allure of the uniqueness of the Varietta. Without even laying eyes on it, Chloe took a leap of faith and bought the car, relying solely on the words in a marketplace listing. It wasn't until it arrived at her doorstep that she got to see one for the first time and saw her dream become a reality.
Every modification Chloe has made to her car is a reflection of her style. She revels in the shiny, tilted wheels and the thrill of driving a car that hugs the ground. For her, it's about creating something that is truly unique and representative of herself, rather than attempting to replicate someone else's build.
When asked what additions to the car she felt stood out the most she responded, “I think the whole car itself makes the biggest statement which is what I love the most. People never see these cars so watching them break their necks on the highway as I cruise through traffic brings a feeling that money just can’t buy. It’s just such a statement car - people ask me all the time how I cut the roof up and engineered it and I find it so ludicrous.” She then proceeded to have a laugh with, “In saying this, one of the additions to my car that stands out the most to me is the factory-heated leather seats; bet your S15 coupe doesn’t have those huh?”
Unfortunately, Chloe has faced her fair share of criticism from those who don't understand the allure of stance cars. However, she remains unfazed, believing that diversity and personal taste are what make the community vibrant. Chloe encourages others to build cars that speak to their own passions and preferences, rather than conforming to expectations. “If we all understood each other and enjoyed the same things it would be so boring. Varietta’s specifically though, could be considered the ugly step-sister of s-chassis’. I think a lot of people don’t realise how much potential these things have. I have had so many people say that they hate how much they love my car. Anything can be cool if you do it right!”
While Chloe is delighted with her car's current state, she can't help but think about future modifications. From new wheels to upgraded seats and even turboing the engine, there's always something on the horizon.
When it comes to giving thanks she said, “My family and my partner have always been so supportive of me, they have always given my car a safe place to stay or helped me work on the car or support me in whatever ways they can. They never complain about how much time or money I invest into the car and are just happy I’m enjoying this passion I have and that I’m happy. I truly am so lucky to have them all. I also would love to thank Airflx for sponsoring me with my air suspension and making my car so comfortable and practical and allowing me to park on the ground lol, and Jayson at Dstnct Autostyle for doing such an immaculate job with the bodywork on the car and the paint in such a short amount of time for me.”
With Chloe’s Varietta as a canvas, we’re reminded that cars are not just machines but extensions of our own personalities and aspirations. Her journey is a testament to the power of individuality and self-expression within the automotive world. Her infectious enthusiasm, combined with her unique choice of car, invites others to embrace their own style and build their cars for themselves. Chloe leaves us with a simple yet profound message: “As long as you're happy, who cares?”
Modifications
Note: This may not be a true representation of the car currently
Engine/Performance
Stock SR20DE
5-speed manual conversion
Kakimoto catback exhaust
Wheels
326Power Yabaking Gangsta DeepMesh
18X9.5+5
Suspension
Airflx air struts
Hardrace rear toe
Hardrace control and upper camber arms,
Extended front LCA’s
Japwarehouse castor rods
326Power wheel nuts
Body/Exterior
Full Works9 kit
326Power Gachabari front fenders
Front strut and boot brace
Custom LED stock S15 tail lights
Interior
Likewise shift knob
Grip Royal custom 350mm steering wheel.
Get the poster
Poster print design based on the ‘Ruthlessly Roofless’ feature design theme from DYS002.
Available in A3 and A2 and in 160gsm Matte Bond, 200gsm Satin, 250gsm Ultra Matte and 310gsm Smooth Pearl - view info at the bottom of the page.
Featuring @_chloephernelia captured by @shinobi_visuals
