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My 1998 2-door convertible RAV4

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Luke W

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
Hello all. I come from a background of swapping JDM engines and turbo kits into old Hondas, but recently became enthralled with the idea of a 3SGTE in a RAV4 (260 hp in a 2500 pound car!) I got super lucky to find this gem of a RAV4, with the 90s vibe dialed way up. It has the 5-speed 4wd manual transmission with the locking center differential.

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The paint was badly sun-faded and the interior a bit dirty, but a full wax and detail and it looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor.
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I will post updates on here as the project progresses.
 
#3 ·
That may be the ultimate Rav4! 2 door manual convertible AWD, with the VERY 90’s decals in red with a few OEM accessories, I’m jealous! I’ll be interested in following this engine swap too because that’s my plan when the original engine dies
 
#14 ·
Luke W said:
Hello all. I come from a background of swapping JDM engines and turbo kits into old Hondas, but recently became enthralled with the idea of a 3SGTE in a RAV4 (260 hp in a 2500 pound car!) I got super lucky to find this gem of a RAV4, with the 90s vibe dialed way up. It has the 5-speed 4wd manual transmission with the locking center differential.

View attachment 160798

The paint was badly sun-faded and the interior a bit dirty, but a full wax and detail and it looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor.
View attachment 160799

View attachment 160800

I will post updates on here as the project progresses.
Click to expand...
She’s beautiful!! I’m searching all over the country for one, with no luck 😞. Where’d you find her? Did you see anymore? Or would you be interested in selling? Lol
 
#16 ·
Luke W said:
Finally sourced an additional 3-spoke wheel for the spare and got some fresh 235/70/16 Falken Wildpeak A/T tires.
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Sorry I may have missed something but how come the 235 70 fit? I've tried 235 65 and they only worked on the rear, on the front they rub when cornering. You may have seen my post. I'm a newbie but I have tyre source problems in Portugal. Originally its 235 60 16 but I'll put anything on that will fit and drive.
 
#17 ·
Truckscum said:
Sorry I may have missed something but how come the 235 70 fit? I've tried 235 65 and they only worked on the rear, on the front they rub when cornering. You may have seen my post. I'm a newbie but I have tyre source problems in Portugal. Originally its 235 60 16 but I'll put anything on that will fit and drive.
Click to expand...
Truckscum said:
Sorry I may have missed something but how come the 235 70 fit? I've tried 235 65 and they only worked on the rear, on the front they rub when cornering. You may have seen my post. I'm a newbie but I have tyre source problems in Portugal. Originally its 235 60 16 but I'll put anything on that will fit and drive.
Click to expand...
Not OP, but I have 235/65r16 on my rav and it’s lifted and I still rub a bit on full lock. I think it’s just the width of the tires. It could be either the wheels offset or the tire type/brand that makes it fit better. I’m considering some hubcentric spacers myself.
 
#19 ·
#20 ·
JulienPier said:
Start your own post, I want to write a poem about how beautiful your Rav is!
Seriously. Your Rav is GORGEOUS! I wished mine was a convertible.
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Thanks man!

My 1999 Rav4 2-Door Convertible AWD

I originally had a bunch of plans for offroad mods (OME lift, lights, tires, ARB front&rear air locker), but I decided to keep it as stock and retro as possible after I saw how awesome Luke W's turned out! I do want to get the same size A/T tires like Luke W's, but I've read everywhere that 235/70/16 would rub without a lift.

Luke W said:
Finally sourced an additional 3-spoke wheel for the spare and got some fresh 235/70/16 Falken Wildpeak A/T tires.
View attachment 161952
Click to expand...
Are you on stock suspension? Or do you rub only at full lock and just deal with it?

Luke W, your Rav4 is freaking awesome and it's even in my favorite color. I have an FJ with that same color :)


Let me know if it's ever for sale! I have some friends and family here that would totally be down to start a little Rav4 crew with me haha
 
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