Tom’s needs your help to restore the JGTC Castrol Supra

Toyota has built numerous successful race cars over the years, some of which have become legends in their own respective ways. But probably their most popular race car would be the Castrol Tom’s Supra that competed in GT500 class of the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship (JGTC), now called Super GT.

In fact, the Castrol Tom’s Supra is easily one of the most recognizable and beloved cars from the early years of JGTC alongside the Calsonic Nissan Skyline GT-R. What made it unique was that it used a 3SGTE instead of the iconic 2JZ that came in the production model Supra. However, it was ultimately thanks to the Gran Turismo series that this GT500 race car became renowned all over the world.

Unfortunately, after its stint in JGTC, the Castrol Tom’s Supra just disappeared without a trace. It wasn’t until recently did the Number 36 car that ran in the 1998 JGTC season surface once more. As the photos show, it appears to have been neglected, parked in a warehouse, and never used again. Most of the pieces have rusted and the engine is missing.

Considering the importance of the car, Tom’s Racing has decided to restore the car back to its original glory, and see it run on the circuit once more. However, they won’t be doing it alone. The Toyota and Lexus tuner is asking the help of fans around the world to donate for JGTC Supra’s restoration. They have even started a donation page wherein people can help.

Tom’s hopes to raise a total of 50 million yen (Php 23.4 million) in order to make the Castrol Supra capable of running on the circuit again. Those who wish to donate can choose between ranges of 5,000 yen up to 10 million yen. Depending on the amount you donate, your name will be included on a special website and will be given a participation sticker. Those who choose to donate a bigger amount will have their names engraved on a special plaque located in various parts of the vehicle and even have the chance to drive the restored vehicle on track.

Currently, Tom’s has only raised 395,000 yen (Php 185,000) and is still quite far from their goal. If you happen to have some extra cash, why not help in the restoration and be part of bringing the iconic race car back to life.