Reader's Rocket: purple velvet-wrapped, V6 Ecotec-powered Corolla KE55 SE

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First published in the July 2026 issue of Street Machine

Joe Cardoso
Toyota Corolla KE55

“My 1978 Toyota Corolla KE55 SE sedan now runs a 3.8L V6 Ecotec from a VX Commodore, with an auto to match.

“And yes, it’s wrapped in purple velvet, and appropriately named VELVET REBEL.

“It has a sticker on the windscreen explicitly inviting onlookers to touch it! Sometimes, you just need a car that doubles as a petting zoo to get people’s attention!

“It’s always getting looks and people asking how and why, which is why I love it.

“I’ve got some videos on the build process of the car on my YouTube channel, @joemechanic.”

Want your pride and joy featured in the mag? Just send some photos of your car (minimum file size 2MB each) and a few details of what went into the build to readerscars@streetmachine.com.au.