For enthusiasts deeply entrenched in the automotive scene, certain builds linger in the mind long after they’ve been seen. Nat Huynh’s Lexus Ls460 is undeniably one of those vehicles. Spotted initially at a local car meet nearly a year prior, this meticulously crafted machine has remained a point of fascination. While VIP-style cars might not universally capture the hearts of all automotive aficionados, this LS460 stands as a compelling exception, redefining preferences and challenging preconceived notions.
Nat’s stewardship of this Lexus LS460 spans almost a decade, a testament to his dedication and evolving vision for the car. Each modification and upgrade has been thoughtfully integrated, creating a cohesive and breathtaking final product. The concern, as with any vehicle that pushes boundaries, is the potential for divisive opinions, especially when discussing the ‘stance’ aspect, a cornerstone of the VIP style. However, to overlook this LS460 due to stylistic debates would be a disservice to its sheer quality and innovation. Beyond its striking stance, this LS460 boasts a supercharger, a performance enhancement that resonates universally with car lovers. This build transcends mere aesthetics; it’s a holistic transformation marrying visual appeal with potent performance.
Lexus LS460 VIP Style Front View
Before diving into the intricate details under the hood, the setting for capturing this LS460 demanded careful consideration. The Alameda Naval Air Station, while visually rich, risked becoming a predictable backdrop. However, its unique blend of industrial decay and waterfront vistas ultimately proved irresistible, offering the perfect canvas to showcase this automotive masterpiece.
Lexus LS460 San Francisco Skyline Backdrop
The allure of framing the LS460 against the San Francisco skyline at sunset was a particularly strong pull. The juxtaposition of the luxurious car against the urban landscape, coupled with the nautical environment, created a compelling visual narrative. After all, what better location to photograph a vehicle with such presence than amidst boats, further emphasizing its ‘land yacht’ VIP persona?
Lexus LS460 Alameda Naval Air Station Location
The air station provides a versatile backdrop with its extensive waterfront and industrial remnants from World War II, offering a multitude of photographic opportunities. While aiming for location diversity is always a goal, the unique aesthetic of this spot makes a return visit almost inevitable for future features. But, back to the star of the show, the Lexus LS460.
Lexus LS460 Stanced VIP StyleThe initial draw to Nat’s Lexus LS460 is undeniably its VIP styling. The first element that immediately captures attention is the breathtaking paintwork. Originally white, Nat prioritized a color transformation early in his ownership.
Lexus LS460 Brandywine Paint Job
The result is a stunning candy ‘brandywine’ finish, intensely responsive to varying light conditions. Previous encounters with the car under overcast skies or indoors concealed the full spectrum of its red hues. Under direct sunlight, the depth and vibrancy of the color are truly remarkable.
Lexus LS460 Red Wine Color Tone
As daylight fades, the car’s persona subtly shifts, adopting a richer, deeper red, akin to a fine red wine. This Lexus LS460 is a testament to continuous refinement, evolving over time into a unique expression of Nat’s personal style and automotive vision.
Exterior Aesthetics: The VIP Transformation
Lexus LS460 VIP Exterior KitIn the realm of VIP car builds, paint is merely one element in a comprehensive aesthetic overhaul. Key components defining the VIP style are the body kit, wheels, and the crucial element of stance.
Lexus LS460 Black Pearl Body Kit Detail
Lexus LS460 Wald Fenders and Wide Body
The flawless integration of the aggressive Black Pearl body kit is a testament to the craftsmanship of Josh White at Priola Bodyshop. Its seamless lines flow beautifully into the Wald fenders and rear wide-body enhancements. Furthermore, the F Sport front end conversion subtly modernizes the LS460’s appearance, harmonizing perfectly with the overall design direction.
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Lexus LS460 F Sport Conversion Front
Lexus LS460 Black Pearl Kit Side Detail
Lexus LS460 Aggressive Stance and Fitment
The choice of Work Wheels W10Ms in a commanding 21×10.5-inch specification on all corners is exemplary. Wheels are pivotal in shaping a vehicle’s persona, and Nat’s meticulous selection of offsets achieves the precise visual impact he envisioned. The subtle rear tuck perfectly positions the large sedan close to the asphalt, amplifying its VIP stance.
Air Runner OTG suspension underpins the build, offering both dramatic lows and practical adjustability. The neatly concealed controls allow for on-the-fly ride height adjustments, ensuring the LS460 maintains its striking presence even at more street-friendly settings. The stance is integral to the VIP aesthetic, and this LS460 embodies it flawlessly.
Lexus LS460 Air Runner Suspension System
Lexus LS460 VIP Rear End Ducktail Spoiler
The rear of the LS460 maintains the cohesive design language established by the Black Pearl kit. The integrated ducktail spoiler adds a subtle yet assertive edge, transforming the original LS460’s gently curved lines into a more commanding and purposeful silhouette.
Lexus LS460 Complete and Polished VIP Build
Many stanced car projects often appear perpetually unfinished, lacking a clear endpoint. This LS460 is a stark contrast, embodying completeness and refinement. It’s not only visually striking but also remarkably driveable and surprisingly quick, a testament to Nat’s meticulous execution and dedication to creating a fully realized vision.
Interior Sanctuary: Refined VIP Luxury
Lexus LS460 VIP Interior Overview
Stepping inside Nat’s Lexus LS460 is akin to entering a different realm. The interior immediately conveys a sense of bespoke luxury and meticulous attention to detail.
Lexus LS460 VIP Interior Detail Stitching
While retaining many of the original Lexus components, only those that aligned with the VIP aesthetic were kept. In contrast to some show cars where interiors can become excessively ornate and arguably gaudy, Nat has opted for a cleaner, more refined approach. Starting with a 2007 LS460 base, the inherent high-quality materials and craftsmanship were enhanced, not overshadowed.
Lexus LS460 Restitched Leather Seats
Lexus LS460 Custom Floor Mats
The seats and door panels have been expertly restitched, complemented by custom-made floor mats. The level of detail and finish is so high that entering the cabin feels almost too pristine to wear shoes inside. The subtle green tint from the window film adds a unique ambiance to the interior environment.
Lexus LS460 Green Window Tint Interior
The rear cabin echoes the same level of meticulous customization.
Lexus LS460 Rear Seat Detailing
Lexus LS460 Custom Rear Woodwork
Re-stitched rear seats, matching door panel treatments, and bespoke woodwork for rear occupants underscore the comprehensive nature of the interior transformation. Despite the extensive in-car entertainment system, the interior maintains an air of sophisticated restraint.
Lexus LS460 In-Car Entertainment System TV
The in-car entertainment is a significant highlight. Featuring a full Focal/Arc audio system, a prominent 32-inch television, dual 10-inch subwoofers, and 9-inch screens integrated into the headrests, the system is seamlessly integrated with impeccable fit and finish. The audio setup ensures a concert-quality sound experience, while the visual entertainment transforms the rear cabin into a mobile cinema.
Lexus LS460 Premium Car Audio System
Under the Hood: Supercharged Performance
Lexus LS460 Engine Bay Supercharger
While many VIP builds prioritize aesthetics, Nat’s LS460 extends its commitment to excellence beneath the surface. The engine bay is as meticulously crafted as the rest of the vehicle.
Lexus LS460 HKS Supercharger Kit
Lexus LS460 Stainless Steel and Carbon Fiber Engine Bay
An HKS supercharger system elevates the already potent 1UR-FSE V8 engine, injecting a significant boost in power and torque. This enhancement transforms the driving dynamics of the LS460, providing exhilarating performance to match its visual impact.
Lexus LS460 Custom Engine Bay Detailing
The engine bay itself is a showcase of meticulous detailing. Compared to the factory engine bay aesthetics of many 2000s-era vehicles, often cluttered with plastic covers, Nat’s LS460 engine bay is a study in clean design and premium materials. Stainless steel and carbon fiber elements replace the original plastic, creating a visually stunning and durable engine compartment.
Lexus LS460 Show Car Quality and Driveability
This Lexus LS460 represents a holistic build, leaving no aspect untouched. Despite family commitments, Nat dedicates time to showcasing the car at select events, enjoying the camaraderie of the car show scene.
Lexus LS460 Futura Big Brake Kit
Even in motion, the LS460’s presence is undeniable. To manage the enhanced power, a Futura big brake kit is installed behind the large wheels, providing substantial stopping power. This upgrade, combined with the supercharger, belies the car’s two-ton weight, making it feel surprisingly agile, even with its low ride height.
Lexus LS460 VIP Build Beyond Novelty
While VIP builds are sometimes perceived as primarily for static display, Nat’s Lexus LS460 transcends this notion. It exemplifies how a show car should be executed – a harmonious blend of striking aesthetics, refined luxury, and enhanced performance, creating a truly exceptional and complete automotive creation.
Trevor Yale Ryan Instagram: tyrphoto TYRphoto.com
Cutting Room Floor
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Lexus LS460 Additional Shot 7
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