Billetworkz Builds - 2012 RB26 Subaru WRX
Billetworkz Builds – 2012 RB26 Subaru WRX
At Billetworkz, we don’t just make performance parts—we live for them. And nothing embodies that passion better than our owner Austin Barnett’s personal build: a one-of-a-kind 2012 Subaru WRX swapped with a Nissan RB26DETT engine.
Nicknamed the "Heavy Mental Machine" by PASMAG and featured on multiple media platforms including Hoonigan, Gears & Gasoline, and the Philadelphia Auto Show, this WRX is anything but ordinary.
From Flat-Four to Monster Inline-Six
The factory 2012 WRX comes with Subaru’s signature 2.5L turbocharged Boxer engine, putting down a respectable 265 hp. But for Austin, “respectable” wasn’t going to cut it.
Instead, this WRX now roars with a Nissan RB26DETT inline-six twin-turbo power plant—originally from the legendary R34 Skyline GT-R. Built by FAST of West Chester and Schmuck Built, the swap involved a completely redesigned engine bay, subframe, wiring, and drivetrain integration to house the larger engine while retaining all-wheel drive.
Power and Precision
This isn’t your average RB26 swap. The engine has been:
- Stroked to 2.8 liters
- Outfitted with a Borg Warner EFR 9174 twin-scroll turbo
- Tuned to run on E85 race fuel
- Fitted with Injector Dynamics 2,000cc injectors
- Built with stronger internals and a dry sump oiling system
Current output? 713 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, spinning to 9000 RPM. And that’s with a turbo that’s limiting peak performance. With a bigger turbo setup, the sky’s the limit.
Watch it on the dyno: YouTube Dyno Pull
AWD, RWD—Your Choice
Thanks to the R34 GT-R Getrag 6-speed transmission, R33 GT-R rear diff, and Full Race Motorsports center diff controller, this WRX can switch from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive at the flip of a switch. Want drift-mode? You got it.
It grips hard with 315-section Toyo Proxes R888s wrapped around custom 18x12 Nessen Forged 3-piece wheels. Behind those wheels are Runduce big brakes—8-piston up front, 6-piston out back.
Styled to Kill
The exterior is equally wild:
- Custom tri-stage white with gold pearl flake paint
- MNT Rider Designs widebody kit
- Carbon fiber fenders, flares, splitter, and Viper-style diffuser
- APR and Blacktop Aero aero pieces
- Custom angel eye HID headlights and taillights
Inside, it’s all business (with style):
- Billetworkz shift knob & steering hub adapter
- Exact Art Alcantara & carbon interior
- AIM MXG dash, iPad for air suspension control
- Takata seats, 6-point roll cage, relocated steering column
And yes—this WRX was on the cover of PASMAG Issue #145.
Featured On
This build has caught attention everywhere:
-
PAS Magazine Article (Oct/Nov 2017)
Build Highlights
Engine & Turbo Setup
- RB26DETT stroked to 2.8L
- Borg Warner EFR 9174
- Schmuck Built V-mount intercooler, exhaust manifold, hood-exit exhaust
- Plazaman intake + throttle body
- Haltech ECU, Zeitronix flex fuel system
Fuel & Oil
- Dual AEM 320 E85 pumps
- ID 2000cc injectors
- Ross Tuffbond Stage 4 dry sump
- Turbosmart Comp40 wastegates (x2)
Drivetrain
- R34 GT-R AWD 6-speed
- R33 GT-R diff
- Nismo LSD
- ATS triple carbon clutch
Suspension & Chassis
- Air Lift 3P system
- Whiteline sway bars
- FAST custom subframe & diff mount
Interior
- iPad dash for suspension control
- AIM MXG digital dash
- Tanabe gauges
- OBP Racing pedal assembly
- Carbon Fiber Element steering wheel
Final Thoughts
This RB-swapped WRX isn’t just a shop car—it’s a rolling statement of what Billetworkz is all about: performance, innovation, and attention to detail. Whether it’s custom work or billet shift knobs, we believe in building machines that move people—literally and emotionally.