Submitted by Warrick Holland

My X1/9 is a 1978 1300 which has had a hard life even though it has only done 59 000km. I bought it in reasonably good running order but the body was in poor condition. It had very little rust thanks to the dry climate of Johannesburg and a bullet hole in the right rear side panel thanks to the exciting lives we live here in Africa.

Due to budget restraints I have fitted a 1500 engine which had already been configured for turbo charging via cosworth pistons, Dellorto DRLA 45 carburettor, T2 turbo flange welded onto the stock exhaust manifold and a water cooled intake manifold.

To this I have added a GT25 ball bearing turbo from a Nissan Silvia which is only currently boosting 0.7 bar. Re-routed the exhaust through the boot and mounted an intercooler where the exhaust used to be.

I found a set of old Lancia 14”rims for a good price (also 98PCD), had them widened to accommodate the 225 wide Bridgestone eager tyres and widened the wheel arches to suit. Bumpers have been done away with and everything neatened up before spraying it black (By far the worst colour to spray as it shows up all the imperfections underneath).