Drifting with Matt Waldin

Words by Mike Centola / Snaps by Mike Centola

Not too long ago, we had a chance to catch up with Matt Waldin, owner of Import Intelligence, and pilot of this 1992 S13.5 240SX. Matt has been drifting for over 7 years and really demonstrates some great moves out on the "dance floor."

rspeed.org: What was your first car ever owned?
Matt Waldin: 1978 Buick Skylark (Lasted 1 week, engine seized)

rspeed.org: How did you get into drifting?
Matt Waldin: Seven years ago I bought a 240sx not knowing anything about it. As soon as there were organized events, I was there.

rspeed.org: Why did you pick this car to build?
Matt Waldin: The headlight winked and it had a digital speedo.

rspeed.org: Who are your inspirations for drifting?
Matt Waldin: JR Gitten, D1 drivers, [and] signal auto for bringing the first large drift event to the east coast.

rspeed.org: Do you like ham and cheese sandwiches?
Matt Waldin: Only if they are toasted and smothered in underwear.

rspeed.org: Does your milkshake bring all the boys to the yard?
Matt Waldin: I love to rub lettuce all over my body.

rspeed.org: Anyone you want to thank or give props to?
Matt Waldin: JR Gitten, My Staff @ Import Intelligence, Right Coast Cars, Dunlop Tire, Drift Brigade and the Driveshaft Shop.

rspeed.org: What do you do for a living and what is your daily driver?
Matt Waldin: Own Import Intelligence by day, and by night, I'm a professional drinker. Crown Baby! DD is an all OEM RHD 89 Silvia.

Matt Waldin: Thank you!
rspeed.org: No problem, Matt! Thanks for the interview!


We were able to catch some rides with the Import Intelligence drift team after the interview and had a great time sliding around. Many people don't realize how much is involved in drifting and how well these drivers can handle their vehicles. Fortunately for us, Matt, and his team are very good at what they do!

For the build of the s13.5, Matt chose a Garrett twin-scroll turbo, mated to a Full-Race manifold. Along with the typical supporting mods, the engine has s15 pistons, and HKS 264/272 cams. An Apex-i N1 exhaust and GReddy intake manifold help with the breathing, while a Haltech Engine management and Apex-i AVCR are used for engine management. On the rollers, he put down 430whp, a great number for the modifications.

Since drifting requires some serious footwork, Matt chose custom valved and springed Tein SuperDrift coilovers, along with front and rear strut bars to keep contol of the monster.

In order to turn those heads, Matt chose the VIS Racing s15 front end conversion, a House of Kolor Orange Kandy paint job, and rolls on 17x9/18x9.5 Volk CE28N Wheels. He also fitted a painted carbon fiber hood, bomex drift spoiler, and a silvia rear badge for some extra good looks!

Quick Specs:
VIS Racing S13-S15 Conversion
House of Kolor Orange Kandy Paint
17x9F - 18x9.5R Volk Racing CE28N Wheels
D1 Star Spec Awesomeness 275/35/18 (R) 255/35/17(F)
Tein SuperDrift CoilOvers w/ custom spring rates & valving
Painted Carbon Fiber Hood
Bomex Drift Spoiler
Tinted Windows
Silvia Rear Badge

Interior
AutoMeter Boost, Oil Pressure Gauges
Import Intelligence Gauges and Needle Kit
Apex'i AVC-R Boost Controller
Shaved Steering, Move Start Key to Center Console.
Rear shelf / storage Area Installed in place of Rear Seats
ACARS DVD/MP3/CD Radio Head Unit

Engine
430whp
Garrett 3071 Twin Scroll Turbo fueled by Full-Race Manifold
2.75" Polished Intake and Intercooler Piping
S15 Pistons
HKS 264/272 Cams
Spyder Prep Racing ported head
300zx Twin Turbo Fuel Filter
Walboro 255lph Fuel Pump
MSD 72# Injectors
JGY Customs Fuel Rail
Aeromotive Fittings
Custom Power Steering Cooler
Koyo Radiator
SPAC Radiator Cap
FAL Cooling Fans
Battery Re-Located to Trunk
Greddy Intercooler
Front and Rear Strut Bars
Custom Painted Valve Cover
Greddy Valve Springs
Greddy Anodized Blue Pulley Set
Tial 44mm External Wastegate
TurboNetics Godzilla BOV
Greddy Intake Manifold
Blitz Twin Plate Clutch
Apexi N1 Exaust
Haltec E-11 Engine Management
T.E. on board Wideband 02 Sensor


We wish Matt the best of luck in all his upcoming drift events!