When most people think of a car to put extensive modification into, the Toyota Camry is usually very far down that list. The lowly Camry, once the top selling vehicle in the world, is often scoffed at by car enthusiasts. But what Tom Tran has done with his silver 2001 example is nothing to joke about. Tom has poured his passion into this vehicle, and created something truly special among modified import vehicles.

From outward appearances, there are subtle cues to the beast that lies within this car. The carbon fiber hood and aggressive stance hint that there may be more than just standard Camry spec motivation under the hood. Where most StanceBro cars may stop short, Tom has stepped up.

Although the 1MZ V6 that orginally propelled the Camry is no slouch, Tom opted to swap in the 3MZ motor from the later model Camrys and Solaras. The 3MZ bumps displacement up to 3.3L from 3.0 as factory equipped, making more power and torque than the stock powerplant. Tom utilized a “Camry Guru” for this swap, who fabricated a custom EGR setup (the only one in the world) to keep it all CARB legal for stringent California laws. Although this motor swap moved the performance of this vehicle into a respectable range, Tom was not done.

Under the hood, Tom has added JPP headers, Magna Core wires, a larger Walbro fuel pump and return system, Supra injectors, and throttle body spacer. TRD goodies include rear sway bar, front strut bar, thermostat and….Supercharger blower.

Thats right, this Camry whines.

Running on a piggyback system and methanol injection, Tom’s car puts down a very stunning  331 HP and 390 lb/ft TQ.

However, with this much fun available, trouble with law enforcement can be expected. In the summer of 2014 Tom was dealt a devastating blow in the form of a modified emission ticket and a trip to the State Ref. Where most would have parted out, or returned their car to stock, Tom did not step down. He was out of a car all summer while his custom EGR was fabricated and other changes were made to make his car 100% California smog legal.

Entirely funded by funds made while slaving as a shift manager at McDonalds, Tom has added a well rounded package of modifications to make his Camry truly unique. His car is suspended by D2 coilovers and rides on a staggered set of JLine  10rl2 wheels. The interior sports an ES300 cluster swap, upgraded stereo, and a boost gauge to keep an eye on that added boosted air.

Tom Tran’s Camry shatters what most people think about what a Camry can be. The passion and dedication put into his car is remarkable. Being given the opportunity to drive this tamed beast, I can attest that this car marks very high on the smiles per gallon test, and I am excited to see what he has planned for the future.

Tom Tran

Instagram: @ChinoTRD

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