- Name: Andre Finney
- Age: 22
- Location: Auckland
- Occupation: Automotive parts sales at Dasko
- Make/model: 1991 Nissan C33 Laurel
- Engine: RB25DET, top-mount manifold, T3/T4 turbo
- Interior: Standard
- Exterior: Full respray gloss black
- Wheels/tyres: 17×10-inch (+15P) BBS replicas, (F) 215/45R17 Nexen, (R ) 215/45R17 Achilles ATR Sport
- Suspension: Tein coilovers
NZ Performance Car: Hi Andre, it seems you have a bit of a thing for Nissan Laurel C33s, care to explain what attracted you to this model in the first place?
Andre: I have always had a thing for them as they aren’t the most common RWD Nissan around, and it’s pretty rare to find a tidy example any more. Also they were always my fiancé Kelley’s favourite car, and I started developing a stronger passion for them once she bought it.
Tell us more about your own Laurel, is it a bit more serious than this one?
My Laurel is also a C33, however, I am running an RB26DETT in mine, which I have just had tuned by ST Hi-tec, and it managed to make 300kW, which I was pretty stoked with. I’m running a full, genuine Japanese Final Konnexion bodykit, with a few extra engine mods that have come from Japan.
What was your main goal with building this car, was it intended as a fun streeter, or something you can take to the track?
This was built to be a nice street-driven car with the occasional track day possibly in-between. The aim was to make something that stood out from other Laurels while looking clean, and having the power there when needed.
The front mount is a good indicator it has been turboed, what exactly is under the hood?
Yeah, we tried to avoid the front mount for a while to keep it as a sleeper, but we gave up on that. It is now running an RB25DET, which has been fully rebuilt less than 5000km ago, we are also running a steam pipe top-mount manifold with a T3/T4 turbo set-up and 38mm external wastegate, and a full three-inch exhaust system from turbo back with a custom intercooler. The aim was never to go over the top, we just wanted something that was fun but reliable at the same time.
What modifications do you have planned next?
We wouldn’t mind buying an aftermarket computer (either Link or A’PEXi Power FC) and getting the car tuned, which will include doing the injectors and other components for reliability.
Lastly, is there anyone you would like to thank?
Would definitely like to thank Kelley for putting up with my obsession for cars, I think I’m starting to wear off on her though, as her passion is getting stronger for them as well.
I would like to thank Wayne at North Shore Engine Reconditioners for assisting with the rebuild, Josh at Rodney Auto Centre for helping out with the welding when needed, and all my mates who have put in the effort to give me a hand.
