Car culture is a realm of constant evolution, driven by passionate individuals who push boundaries and challenge conventions. For true automotive enthusiasts, the pursuit of unique and exhilarating builds is a never-ending journey. Recently, a trip to Stockholm, Sweden, unveiled a creation that perfectly embodies this spirit: a Volkswagen Caddy pickup truck unlike any other. Initially, the expectations were vague, but a single glimpse of this aggressively styled VW Caddy, powered by a legendary 1JZ engine, was enough to ignite unbridled excitement and curiosity. How did this automotive marvel come to be? Was it a limitless budget project, a high-profile demo car, or something far more intriguing? The answers lie in a story that celebrates ingenuity, friendship, and the pure joy of automotive madness.
alt text: Front three-quarter view of the purple Vw Caddy Pickup truck with a 1JZ engine swap, showcasing its aggressive stance and custom bodywork.
This VW Caddy pickup is more than just a vehicle; it’s a nostalgic throwback to an era of automotive innovation. It evokes memories of the groundbreaking cars that graced magazine covers in the UK during the late 90s and early 2000s. Visionaries like Ian Birch from Dubsport, known for his rear-engine and twin-engine VW conversions, and Squint of MJS Performance, famed for his outrageous rear-engined Ford Escort and twin-engined RS Turbo pickup, were pioneers who redefined automotive possibilities. Their creations were the epitome of automotive audacity, setting a high bar for unconventional builds.
alt text: Side profile of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck highlighting the side-exit exhaust and custom wide fenders.
While the spirit of extreme engine swaps seemed to wane in the UK’s VW scene, with a shift towards factory-style engines or subtle swaps, Viktor Martensson’s 1JZ-powered Volkswagen Caddy pickup stands as a vibrant resurgence of that bold creativity. Built with passion and ingenuity, this Caddy isn’t just about an engine swap; it’s a fusion of different car cultures, embodying the fun-loving ethos of Viktor and his friends at Japcrap Bombsquad. This project represents the core of automotive enthusiasm: transforming a humble vehicle into something extraordinary, purely for the joy of it. Viktor, a metalworker from Stockholm, along with his crew, has crafted a machine that’s all about unadulterated automotive fun.
alt text: Close-up of the front wheel and wide fender of the purple VW Caddy pickup, emphasizing the OZ Racing Futura wheels.
The sheer audacity of this build is captivating. It defies automotive norms, creating a unique Euro-JDM hybrid that resonates across various car scenes. This VW Caddy pickup seamlessly blends elements of Euro styling, JDM power, drift culture, and stance aesthetics. It’s a German vehicle reimagined by a Swedish craftsman, powered by a Japanese heart. In essence, it’s a United Nations of car culture, all rolled into one remarkable machine.
alt text: Angled shot of the VW Caddy pickup truck showcasing the front Soarer conversion and custom purple paint job.
At first glance, it might appear to be simply a wildly modified Volkswagen Caddy with a distinctive side-exit exhaust. However, beneath the surface lies a complete transformation, involving extensive fabrication and engineering. Viktor didn’t just drop in a 1JZ engine from a Toyota Soarer; he essentially grafted the entire front end of a Soarer onto the Caddy chassis. The front fascia is unmistakably Soarer, cleverly integrated with the Caddy’s body lines. Even the rear subframe is sourced from the Soarer. As Rod Chong aptly described it during the photoshoot, “There’s a ghost of a Soarer living inside that Caddy.”
alt text: Front view of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck with its aggressive headlights and stance, parked at a motorsport arena.
Perhaps it’s this “ghost” that gives the Caddy’s front end its menacing character, an almost aggressive, single-minded expression that seems to dare others to get out of its way. And Viktor isn’t afraid to push his creation to its limits, as these action-packed photos taken by Paddy McGrath at Gröndal Eskilstuna Motorsport Arena demonstrate.
alt text: Dynamic shot of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck drifting on a track, tires smoking, capturing its performance capabilities.
It’s remarkable to learn that this photoshoot marked only the second time the car was pushed to its full potential on a track in its current configuration. Viktor had recently refined the Caddy to enhance its track performance. Previously, the external wastegate’s screamer pipe, resembling the interior handbrake lever in its upward projection, delivered a raw and intense sound. While undeniably exciting, it posed a challenge for track noise regulations. Viktor has since re-engineered the wastegate system to comply with noise restrictions, without sacrificing the engine’s formidable roar.
alt text: Close-up of the VW Caddy pickup truck’s front end, highlighting the custom headlights and aggressive grille.
The 1JZ turbo engine delivers a surprisingly refined straight-six sound, an unexpected auditory experience from a VW, especially a Caddy pickup. This smooth engine note is perfectly complemented by the vehicle’s equally impressive stance and wheel setup. Viktor chose OZ Racing Futura wheels, a timeless design, with super-wide 17×10-inch wheels at the rear and 17×8.5-inch versions up front. While still under development, the stance is already aggressively perfect for enthusiasts of wide wheel fitment. The Futuras bring a classic touch to this otherwise wild build.
alt text: Rear three-quarter view of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck drifting, showing the wide rear wheels and side-exit exhaust in action.
The mastermind behind this incredible VW Caddy pickup is Viktor Martensson. With a background rooted in rear-wheel-drive BMWs, starting with an E30, Viktor’s fabrication skills were honed before he ventured into bodywork. He’s a true all-rounder, eager to tackle every aspect of a build.
alt text: Engine bay of the VW Caddy pickup truck showcasing the 1JZ engine swap, GT35 turbo, and purple and black color scheme.
Viktor’s personal touch is evident in the Caddy’s interior – the custom dash installation, wiring, and subtle details all reflect his personality. Injecting personal style into a build, rather than simply following trends, is what truly sets custom cars apart.
alt text: Close-up of the OZ Racing Futura wheels on the purple VW Caddy pickup truck, highlighting the aggressive stance and wheel fitment.
This VW Caddy pickup is built with the driver in mind. The cockpit is ergonomically designed, with perfectly positioned controls like the gear shifter and hydraulic handbrake. Despite its stance car appearance, this machine is built for driving performance.
alt text: Viktor Martensson, the builder of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck, standing next to his creation and smiling.
The Nissan S13 dash pod hints at the serious pedal box conversion using OBP (Optimum Balance Products) components, further emphasizing the driver-centric design. Viktor’s Moto X background shines through in his natural drifting ability, evident even in only his second track outing with the Caddy.
alt text: Interior view of the VW Caddy pickup truck showing the modified Nissan S13 dashboard, roll cage, Sparco seats, and hydraulic handbrake.
The interior prioritizes function over form, a testament to the car’s raw and purposeful nature. This no-nonsense approach is consistent throughout the build, reinforcing the Caddy’s aggressive character. It’s more than just angry; it’s utterly mad in the best possible way.
alt text: Driver’s perspective of the interior of the VW Caddy pickup truck, focusing on the Sparco steering wheel, gear shifter, and hydraulic handbrake.
This is only the beginning for Viktor’s VW Caddy pickup. Future plans include further enhancements to the 1JZ engine. Even at a conservative 0.6 bar of boost, dyno testing revealed an impressive 310 wheel horsepower, hinting at the engine’s untapped potential.
alt text: Close-up of the modified dashboard and pedal box in the VW Caddy pickup truck, showcasing the driver-focused controls.
The 1JZ engine swap was a monumental undertaking. The Caddy sat idle in Viktor’s workshop for years before a turbocharged ’91 Soarer, donor to the crucial 1JZ motor, entered his life. Twelve months of intense work followed, culminating in this extraordinary machine.
alt text: OBP pedal box in the VW Caddy pickup truck, highlighting the performance-oriented modifications in the driver’s area.
The Soarer’s front end was expertly grafted onto the VW Caddy, incorporating Soarer suspension components and 5×114.3 hubs, opening up a wider range of wheel choices compared to the Caddy’s original 4×100 setup.
alt text: Raw and functional interior of the VW Caddy pickup truck with roll cage, Sparco seats, and minimalist design, emphasizing its performance focus.
Viktor adopted a resourceful approach to sourcing parts, utilizing a mix of components – some specifically purchased, like the Tial wastegate, others repurposed or found at bargain prices. This “hunter-gatherer” ethos resulted in a vehicle that demands respect, showcasing Viktor’s inventiveness and resourcefulness.
alt text: Close-up of the 1JZ engine in the VW Caddy pickup truck, showing the GT35 turbo, aftermarket plenum, and overall engine bay layout.
One thing is undeniable: this car exudes character. Its quirky charm is irresistible. Even the engine bay, with its striking purple and black color scheme, adds to the overall coolness.
alt text: Front suspension and wheel hub of the VW Caddy pickup truck, highlighting the Soarer suspension components and 5×114.3 hub conversion.
A GT35 turbocharger forces air into the 1JZ, creating an incredible sound. However, this power comes at a price – fuel consumption is substantial, with the engine capable of burning through 10 gallons of fuel in under 120 miles when driven aggressively.
alt text: Tial wastegate and other engine components in the VW Caddy pickup truck’s engine bay, showcasing the performance parts used in the build.
The engine’s positioning, set far back towards the bulkhead, is ideal for weight distribution and contributes to the Caddy’s exceptional drifting capabilities. A passenger ride confirmed its impressive handling, leaving a desire for another ride once further development is complete.
alt text: Side-exit exhaust pipes of the VW Caddy pickup truck, emphasizing the custom fabrication and aggressive styling detail.
The side-exit exhaust amplifies the build’s sheer craziness. The twin two-inch exhausts ensure this Caddy is heard long before it’s seen.
alt text: Birds-eye view of the 1JZ engine installation in the VW Caddy pickup truck, highlighting the set-back position for optimal weight distribution.
Experiencing this car in person is highly recommended. Hearing the 1JZ engine sing its smooth, powerful song on the track is a treat for both eyes and ears. This VW Caddy pickup is a refreshing departure from predictable builds, showcasing out-of-the-box thinking and masterful execution.
alt text: Close-up of the GT35 turbocharger on the 1JZ engine in the VW Caddy pickup truck, detailing the performance upgrade.
Viktor has revived the spirit of automotive craziness from past eras and infused it into his remarkable Caddy build. The dialed-in stance adds a contemporary edge, making this VW Caddy pickup a truly exceptional and captivating creation.
alt text: Side view of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck with side-exit exhaust, parked at the track, emphasizing its unique styling.
On the day of the photoshoot, Viktor’s Caddy brought smiles to everyone who witnessed it. His ingenious approach to the build is truly admirable. This isn’t a project driven by deep pockets; it’s a testament to hard work and passion. Viktor and the Japcrap Bombsquad are blending the finest aspects of diverse car cultures while having immense fun with their creations. This is the essence of car culture – something every enthusiast should celebrate.
alt text: Action shot of the purple VW Caddy pickup truck drifting aggressively on the track, captured from a low angle.
Words by Ben Chandler
Photos by Paddy McGrath and Rod Chong
Viktor Martensson’s 1JZ-powered VW Caddy Specifications
ENGINE
Toyota 1JZ motor, GT3582r turbo, Tial 38mm wastegate, 3″ downpipe, aftermarket plenum with 80mm throttle body, BMW F10 radiator with two 12″ electric fans, 19 row oilcooler, GReddy blow off valve
DRIVELINE
BMW ZF gearbox, ACT paddle clutch, home made driveshafts
SUSPENSION/BRAKES
BC Racing BR coilovers, stock Toyota Soarer brakes
WHEELS/TYRES
OZ Racing Futura 17×8.5 (front), 17×10 (rear), Federal SS595 195/40/17 (front) and Nankang NS-II 215/40/17 (rear)
EXTERIOR
Full respray in Japcrap purple, home made wide fender, side exit exhaust, complete custom rear bay with 10 gallon fuel cell
INTERIOR
Flocked modified Nissan S13 dashboard, home made eight-point roll cage, hydraulic handbrake, Sparco Sprint seats
