KS AUTO FD3S
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The first thing that stuck out to me about KS Auto’s FD3S was the yellow sticker “Realize your dreams” on the side skirts and rear bumper of the car. Everyone of us should feel some sort of connection to those words. Because of those words KS Auto feels like they’re one of us and has made their dreams happen. One of the reasons I started doing WAKAI気迫 was due to my dreams. KS Auto resonates with me and I believe there is connection between what I am trying to accomplish with what they were able to achieve. Go after your dreams, full attack. Enjoy the translation of this article from RevSpeed No. 155.
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The twin wastegate is intense! The FD on par with a GT machine has arrived
This FD is a high speed circuit model made by KS Auto exclusively for Fuji Speedway. The best time at Fuji is an astonishing 1 minute 35 seconds, which is comparable to the qualifying time of the GT300 class. There are two secrets to this speed. The first is the front and rear bumpers and 3D GT wing that actively utlize aerodynamics at high speeds. The strong downforce helps th etires grip, so you can clear high speed corners at astonishing speeds. The other secret is the side port T04R modified SPL engine that was commissioned to Pan Speed. The powerful engine, which delivers 514ps at 1.1kg boost, is set to the very limit, so much so that it requires an overhaul after each race, achieving power and ultra-high response across the entire range. At Fuji, the top speed on the straights can affect the time, so the 3.9 automatic transmission is always used in the final. This time the wheels were changed to the RZ 4/3 for the Tsukuba Circuit. The key to conquering Tsukuba is the final corner, where even a small difference in the suspension can greatly change the point at which you pedal, so unfortunately, since this was the first time I drove it, I couldn’t get a good feel for it.
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The engine is a Pan Speed SPL side port. The v-mounted three-layer intercooler is for the HKS R32 type M, and the efficiency-oriented one-off aluminum piping ensures that the intake air flows smoothly into the engine without creating unnecessary pressure buildup. The engine is also perfectly cooled, with a thee-layer radiator already installed underneath the intercooler.
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After removing all the undercoat, adding all the spots and welding the roll cage, the interior was painted the same color as the body.
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The rear bumper not only uses a diffuser under the vehicle, but also draws out turbulence in the wheel well.
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The engine is managed by F-Con V Pro. Of course, there is no air conditioning or heater, but instead there are additional meters on the panel.
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The original factory fenders look very wide, but in fact they are the same width as the standard car. A 255 can be fitted to the front.
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The suspension is the ultimate Ohlins PCV model with original damping adjustment. The brakes are F40 Brembo, which can handle even the straight of Fuji at speeds of up to 300km/h.
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Driver Kazumasa Harada-san
I usually run around Fuji and Mase, but this was my first time running around Tsukuba. I had a tough time on a circuit that was deeper than I expected.
KS Auto Mechanic Hiroshi Kosakai-san
We are proud of our original aero parts that are truly effective for aerodynamics. Just by replacing the genuine one, driving stability will be greatly improved.