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| image = Mighty Car Mods logo.png
| image = Mighty Car Mods logo.png
| caption = Mighty Car Mods Logo
| caption = Mighty Car Mods Logo
| genre = [[Documentary]], [[comedy]], [[mini-series]], [[cars]]
| genre = Documentary, comedy, [[mini-series]], [[cars]]
| creator = [[Blair Joscelyne]]<br/>Martin Mulholland
| creator = [[Blair Joscelyne]]<br/>Martin Mulholland
| theme_music_composer = Blair Joscelyne
| theme_music_composer = Blair Joscelyne
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| num_episodes = 565
| num_episodes = 565
| location = Sydney
| location = Sydney
| runtime = 20-40 mins
| runtime = 20–40 mins
| distributor = [[YouTube]]
| first_aired = {{start date|2007|12|14}}
| first_aired = {{start date|2007|12|14}}
}}
}}
'''''Mighty Car Mods''''' is a [[YouTube]] channel that focuses on [[Do it yourself|DIY]] car modifications and car culture. Created by [[Blair Joscelyne]] (known as [[Blair Joscelyne|MOOG]]) and [[Martin Mulholland]] the show is centred around the journey through buying, modifying and then testing or battling cars of various levels of modification and budget.
'''''Mighty Car Mods''''' is a YouTube channel that focuses on [[Do it yourself|DIY]] car modifications and car culture. Created by [[Blair Joscelyne]] (known as [[Blair Joscelyne|MOOG]]) and [[Martin Mulholland]] the show is centred around the journey through buying, modifying and then testing or battling cars of various levels of modification and budget.


While typically based in [[Sydney, Australia]], Marty and MOOG have travelled extensively to experience car culture all over the world and create movies from these experiences. They have filmed in locations including [[Japan]], [[Cuba]], [[Germany]], the [[UAE]], [[America]], [[Switzerland]], the [[UK]] and [[New Zealand]]. They also host The Unicorn Circuit on their MCMtv2 YouTube channel, which keeps fans up to date with automotive news and includes fan submissions.
While typically based in Sydney, Marty and MOOG have travelled extensively to experience car culture all over the world and create movies from these experiences. They have filmed in locations including Japan, [[Cuba]], Germany, the [[UAE]], America, Switzerland, the UK and New Zealand. They also host The Unicorn Circuit on their MCMtv2 YouTube channel, which keeps fans up to date with automotive news and includes fan submissions.


==History==
==History==
Line 28: Line 27:
Marty actually works in the music/audio production industry and is a sound engineer by trade, while MOOG is a composer and music producer whose work can be heard in commercials for [[Telstra]], [[Arnott's Biscuits Holdings|Arnotts]], [[Optus]], [[American Express|Amex]], [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]], [[BMW]], [[Coles Supermarkets]], Loveable Lingerie, [[IBM]], [[L’Oreal]], [[Heinz]], [[OPSM]], [[Subaru]], [[Origin Energy|Origin]], [[Lexus]], [[Jetstar]], [[Touchstone Pictures]], [[Visa Inc]], [[Mazda]], [[Cascade Brewery]], [[Discovery Channel]], [[Renault]], [[Wrigley Company]], and [[Village Cinemas]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blairjoscelyne.com/About.html|title=BLAIR JOSCELYNE : ABOUT|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121224103221/http://blairjoscelyne.com/About.html|archive-date=24 December 2012|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref> He has released a number of solo albums and he has been involved with a variety of different bands and musical projects.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.beatmp3.net/artist/blair-joscelyne.html|title=Blair Joscelyne Biography|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref>
Marty actually works in the music/audio production industry and is a sound engineer by trade, while MOOG is a composer and music producer whose work can be heard in commercials for [[Telstra]], [[Arnott's Biscuits Holdings|Arnotts]], [[Optus]], [[American Express|Amex]], [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]], [[BMW]], [[Coles Supermarkets]], Loveable Lingerie, [[IBM]], [[L’Oreal]], [[Heinz]], [[OPSM]], [[Subaru]], [[Origin Energy|Origin]], [[Lexus]], [[Jetstar]], [[Touchstone Pictures]], [[Visa Inc]], [[Mazda]], [[Cascade Brewery]], [[Discovery Channel]], [[Renault]], [[Wrigley Company]], and [[Village Cinemas]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blairjoscelyne.com/About.html|title=BLAIR JOSCELYNE : ABOUT|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121224103221/http://blairjoscelyne.com/About.html|archive-date=24 December 2012|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref> He has released a number of solo albums and he has been involved with a variety of different bands and musical projects.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.beatmp3.net/artist/blair-joscelyne.html|title=Blair Joscelyne Biography|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref>


In 2022, Mighty Car Mods opened a Collobarative workspace named '[[Super Garage]]' in [[Sydney, New South Wales|Sydney, Australia]]<ref>{{citation | url = https://supergarage.com.au/ | title = SUPER GARAGE | publisher = Super Garage | access-date =23 July 2022}}</ref>
In 2022, Mighty Car Mods opened a Collaborative workspace named '[[Super Garage]]' in [[Sydney]], Australia<ref>{{citation | url = https://supergarage.com.au/ | title = SUPER GARAGE | publisher = Super Garage | access-date =23 July 2022}}</ref>


==Format==
==Format==
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Typically, cars featured in builds will be given a name—often a pun such as Yaris Hilton or Taylor Drift—to build an identity with viewers. The show was originally filmed on Marty's mother's driveway and garage, but was moved to a private indoor location in Sydney in 2015, following issues with people posting spoilers or causing traffic issues in the suburban street.
Typically, cars featured in builds will be given a name—often a pun such as Yaris Hilton or Taylor Drift—to build an identity with viewers. The show was originally filmed on Marty's mother's driveway and garage, but was moved to a private indoor location in Sydney in 2015, following issues with people posting spoilers or causing traffic issues in the suburban street.


The MCM duo have released several critically acclaimed feature-length films documenting automotive-focused travel, such as ''Turbos and Temples'', ''Kei to the City'', ''Chasing Midnight'', and ''Turbos and Temples{{nbsp}}II,'' and ''The Cars of Cuba.'' MCM are the first Australian-produced automotive show to be aired globally on Discovery Channel, and MCM also appears on Qantas in-flight entertainment.
The MCM duo have released several critically acclaimed feature-length films documenting automotive-focused travel, such as ''Turbos and Temples'', ''Kei to the City'', ''Chasing Midnight'', ''Turbos and Temples{{nbsp}}II,'' ''The Cars of Cuba,'' and most recently; ''Turbos & Temples III.'' MCM are the first Australian-produced automotive show to be aired globally on Discovery Channel, and MCM also appears on Qantas in-flight entertainment.

Some vehicles that were featured in the films, such as the [[Daihatsu Mira|Daihatsu Mira TR-XX]] in '<nowiki/>''Kei to the City'<nowiki/>'', and the [[Nissan March Superturbo|Nissan March Super Turbo]] in ''<nowiki/>'Turbos & Temples II''' have eventually led to the duo making multiple extended series, after having them imported from Japan and remodified or retrofitted to comply with the safety regulations set by [[Australian Road Rules|Australia's Road laws]].


All music used in the show and associated films is composed and produced by MOOG, with editing and uploading handled by both he and Marty. The mix of technical content with irreverent humor and high production quality has found a fanbase among a wide demographic of people. This has led to ''Mighty Car Mods'' videos being viewed more than 780 million times, making MCM one of the most successful shows of its type on YouTube.
All music used in the show and associated films is composed and produced by MOOG, with editing and uploading handled by both he and Marty. The mix of technical content with irreverent humor and high production quality has found a fanbase among a wide demographic of people. This has led to ''Mighty Car Mods'' videos being viewed more than 780 million times, making MCM one of the most successful shows of its type on YouTube.
Line 47: Line 48:
Marty typically shows more hands-on mechanical experience in videos, while MOOG will often handle creative tasks involving design or [[aesthetics]]. Due to their background as amateur mechanics Marty and MOOG will sometimes enlist the help of industry-qualified experts for complex builds.
Marty typically shows more hands-on mechanical experience in videos, while MOOG will often handle creative tasks involving design or [[aesthetics]]. Due to their background as amateur mechanics Marty and MOOG will sometimes enlist the help of industry-qualified experts for complex builds.


Special guests include Miles "Dose Vader" Stinton, Scott "Tuning Fork" Hilzinger, Benny "Mechanical Stig" Neal, and Alan "Turbo Yoda" Butler. Typically, these guests are known by their nicknames, with Turbo Yoda (with his offsider, Woody) now hosting The Skid Factory from his home in Queensland, while Mechanical Stig fronts the Benny's Custom Works channel. Tuning Fork works at Haltech, while Dose Vader runs AM Auto in Noosaville in Queensland.
Special guests include Miles "Dose Vader" Stinton, Scott "Tuning Fork" Hilzinger, Benny "Mechanical Stig" Neal, and Alan "Turbo Yoda" Butler. Typically, these guests are known by their nicknames, with Turbo Yoda (with his offsider, Ben "Woody" Wood) now hosting The Skid Factory from his home in Queensland, while Mechanical Stig fronts the Benny's Custom Works channel. Tuning Fork works at Haltech, while Dose Vader runs AM Auto in Noosaville in Queensland.


==Project cars==
==Project cars==
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|-
|-
! Project Year !! Car Manufacturer !! Model || Nickname/Information
! Project Year !! Car Manufacturer !! Model || Nickname/Information
!First Appearance
|-
|-
| 2008 || [[Nissan]] || [[Nissan March#Super Turbo|March Super Turbo]] ||
| 2008 || [[Nissan]] || [[Nissan March#Super Turbo|March Super Turbo]] ||
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" |2009
| 2013 || Nissan || [[Nissan 180SX|180SX]] || 'Tay Tay'
|Ford
|[[Ford Laser|Laser]]
|'TRDLZR'
|
|-
|-
|Mazda
| 2014 || [[Subaru]] || [[Subaru Liberty|Liberty (BP)]] || 'Supergramps'
|323
|Roof chopped to make a "Convertible"
|
|-
|-
|2010
| rowspan="2" | 2015 || Nissan || [[Nissan Silvia|Silvia (S15)]] || 'Mod Max', [[General Motors LS-based small-block engine|General Motors LS]] engine swap
|Nissan
|[[Nissan Pathfinder|Pathfinder]]
|'Zombie Proof'
|
|-
| rowspan="7" |2011
|[[Subaru]]
|Liberty
|
|
|-
|Nissan
|[[Nissan Silvia|Silvia (S15)]]
|
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Y97oLjiuA How To Buy a Japanese Car (In Japan)]
|-
|Subaru
|Forester XT
|'MOOGARU'
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9O-uOKN8RE Subaru Forester XT]
|-
|Daihatsu
|[[Daihatsu Cuore|Cuore]]
|Budget Show Car
|
|-
|Subaru
|[[Subaru Fiori|Fiori]]
|$50 DIY Stereo
|
|-
|Daihatsu
|[[Daihatsu Cuore|Cuore]]
|'The Blue Turd'
|
|-
|Honda
|[[Honda Civic (fifth generation)|Civic]]
|
|
|-
| rowspan="4" |2012
|Mitsubishi
|[[Mitsubishi Galant VR-4|Galant]]
|'The Off-Brand Takumi'
|
|-
|Toyota
|[[Toyota cresida|Cressida]]
|'Old Man Sleeper'
|
|-
|Daihatsu
|[[Daihatsu Charade|Charade]]
|Supercharged using Leaf Blowers
|
|-
|Volkswagen
|[[Volkswagen Golf Mk3|Golf (MK3)]]
|'Budget Street Cred'
|
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2013 || Nissan || [[Nissan 180SX|180SX]] || First iteration of what becomes 'Tay Tay'
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouvfTA9pX_U Moog Buys Marty A Car]
|-
|[[Mazda]]
|[[Mazda MX-5|MX-5]]
|1990 MX-5 NA
|
|-
|Nissan
|[[Nissan Figaro|Figaro]]
|
|
|-
|2014|| Subaru || [[Subaru Legacy|Liberty]] ([[Subaru Legacy (second generation)|BG]]/[[Subaru Legacy (fourth generation)|BP]])|| 'Supergramps': Revival of the first iteration of 'Gramps', a 2nd generation Liberty (Legacy) wagon (BG)/[[EZ36|EZ36 H6]]-Turbo swap. Was colloquially known as "The 11 Second Car"
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2A47LYAcakg Gramps – the 11 Second Car (BG)]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zo8uMdLG5lc Supergramps – Part 1 (BP)]
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2015 || Nissan || Silvia (S15) || 'Mod Max', [[General Motors LS-based small-block engine|General Motors LS]] engine swap
|
|-
|-
| [[Mini (marque)|Mini]] || [[Mini|Cooper]] || [[Japanese Domestic Market|JDM]] model, with [[Honda B engine#B16|Honda B16B]] Engine Swap
| [[Mini (marque)|Mini]] || [[Mini|Cooper]] || [[Japanese Domestic Market|JDM]] model, with [[Honda B engine#B16|Honda B16B]] Engine Swap
|
|-
|Volkswagen
|[[Volkswagen Beetle|Beetle]]
|'Miss Daisy' Subaru EJ25 swap
|
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2016 || [[Mitsubishi Motors|Mitsubishi]] || [[Mitsubishi Lancer|Lancer]] || '2SEXY'
|
|-
|-
|Nissan
| 2016 || [[Mitsubishi Motors|Mitsubishi]] || [[Mitsubishi Lancer|Lancer]] || '2SEXY'
|180SX
|'Tay Tay', 180SX project car from 2013 repurchased
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ4_OJ0IxqI MOOGS NEW CAR!]
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2017 || Nissan || [[Nissan 350Z|350Z]] || '3FIDDY'
| rowspan="2" | 2017 || Nissan || [[Nissan 350Z|350Z]] || '3FIDDY'
|
|-
|-
| [[Daihatsu]] || [[Daihatsu Mira|Mira]] || Australian-market model, retrofitted with a [[Japanese Domestic Market|JDM]] TR-XX X4 Mira body and drivetrain
| [[Daihatsu]] || [[Daihatsu Mira|Mira]] || The Main Feature for the film 'Kei to the City' – An Australian-market model, retrofitted with the then imported [[Japanese Domestic Market|JDM]] Mira TR-XX X4 from the film to comply with Australia's Road laws.
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cu6h5IoqkoA&pp=ygUPa2VpIHRvIHRoZSBjaXR5 <nowiki>Kei to the City [Drift Feature Film – Japan]</nowiki>]
|-
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2018 || Holden || [[Holden Kingswood|Kingswood (HQ)]] || Police Car livery, General Motors LS engine swap
| rowspan="3" | 2018 || Holden || [[Holden Kingswood|Kingswood (HQ)]] || Police Car livery, General Motors LS engine swap
|
|-
|-
| Mitsubishi || Lancer || '2TWISTD', [[Mitsubishi Sirius engine|Mitsubishi 4G63]] engine swap
| Mitsubishi || Lancer || '2TWISTD', [[Mitsubishi Sirius engine|Mitsubishi 4G63]] engine swap
|
|-
|-
| Nissan || [[Nissan S30|240Z]] || [[Nissan RB engine#RB26DETT|Nissan RB26]] engine swap
| Nissan || [[Nissan S30|240Z]] || [[Nissan RB engine#RB26DETT|Nissan RB26]] engine swap
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="4" | 2019 || Mitsubishi || [[Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution#Evolution IX|Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9]] ||
| rowspan="4" | 2019 || Mitsubishi || [[Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution#Evolution IX|Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9]] ||
|
|-
|-
| Subaru || Outback || 'OUTFAP'
| Subaru || Outback || 'OUTFAP'
|
|-
|-
| [[Toyota]] || [[Toyota Yaris|Yaris]] || 'Yaris Hilton'
| [[Toyota]] || [[Toyota Yaris|Yaris]] || 'Yaris Hilton'
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlCZTV2hO-0 Introducing: YARIS HILTON]
|-
|-
| [[Volkswagen]] || [[Volkswagen Golf#Seventh generation (Mk7, Typ 5G; 2012)|Golf R]] (Mk7) ||
| [[Volkswagen]] || [[Volkswagen Golf#Seventh generation (Mk7, Typ 5G; 2012)|Golf R]] (Mk7) ||
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="6" | 2020 || BMW || 3 Series (E30) || 'Black Ch-Ops', General Motors LS engine swap
| rowspan="6" | 2020 || BMW || 3 Series (E30) || 'Black Ch-Ops', General Motors LS engine swap
|
|-
|-
| [[Lotus Cars|Lotus]] || [[Lotus Exige#Exige S 240 (2008–2011)|Exige Sport 240]] ||
| [[Lotus Cars|Lotus]] || [[Lotus Exige#Exige S 240 (2008–2011)|Exige Sport 240]] ||
|
|-
|-
| Daihatsu || [[Daihatsu Hijet|Hijet Tipper]] || Full Custom turbocharger install
| Daihatsu || [[Daihatsu Hijet|Hijet Tipper]] || Full Custom turbocharger install
|
|-
|-
| Subaru || [[Subaru Impreza|Impreza WRX STi]] (2-door) ||
| Subaru || [[Subaru Impreza|Impreza WRX STi]] (2-door) ||
|
|-
|-
| Subaru || [[Toyota 86#Subaru BRZ|BRZ]] ||
| Subaru || [[Toyota 86#Subaru BRZ|BRZ]] ||
|
|-
|-
| Toyota || [[Toyota MR2|MR2]] || 'Mr. Poo'
| Toyota || [[Toyota MR2|MR2]] || 'Mr. Poo'
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2021 || Honda || [[Honda Civic (seventh generation)|Civic]] (EP) ||
| rowspan="2" | 2021 || Honda || [[Honda Civic (seventh generation)|Civic]] (EP) ||
|
|-
|-
| [[Mazda]] || [[Mazda RX-7#First generation (SA22C, FB)|RX-7]] (FB) ||
| Mazda || [[Mazda RX-7#First generation (SA22C, FB)|RX-7]] (FB) ||
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="7" | 2022 || Daihatsu || [[Daihatsu Midget|Midget]] ||
| rowspan="7" | 2022 || Daihatsu || [[Daihatsu Midget|Midget]] ||
|
|-
|-
| Nissan || 180SX ||
| Nissan || 180SX ||
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCK0qMUmNzs&list=PLp0KnUFYB--jALhF_X5EwD0w8k4TVVhZt 180SX – DREAM BUILD]
|-
|-
| Nissan || March Super Turbo ||
| Nissan || March Super Turbo ||The main feature for 'Turbos & Temples 2'. A successor of Martin's first March Super Turbo in 2008
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ve2hfpMOKnQ Turbos & Temples 2]
|-
|-
| Subaru || [[Subaru Levorg|Levorg]] || Impreza WRX STi engine and manual drivetrain swap
| Subaru || [[Subaru Levorg|Levorg]] || Impreza WRX STi engine and manual drivetrain swap/upgraded with an EZ30 H6-Turbo swap (known by Martin as 'Hypergramps' in lieu of 'Supergramps' and 'Gramps' prior)
|
|-
|-
| Toyota || [[Toyota Hilux|Hilux]] ||
| Toyota || [[Toyota Hilux|Hilux]] ||
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCvzxIJms6g We Bought the CHEAPEST HILUX in Australia (then fixed it in ONE DAY)]
|-
|-
| Toyota || [[Toyota GR Yaris|GR Yaris]] ||
| Toyota || [[Toyota GR Yaris|GR Yaris]] ||
|
|-
|-
| Volkswagen || [[Volkswagen Golf#Eighth generation (Mk8, CD1; 2019)|Golf R]] (Mk8) ||
| Volkswagen || [[Volkswagen Golf#Eighth generation (Mk8, CD1; 2019)|Golf R]] (Mk8) ||
|
|-
| rowspan="2" |2023
|Suzuki
|[[Suzuki Swift|Swift]]
|
|
|-
|[[Peugeot]]
|[[Peugeot 206|206]]
|
|
|-
| rowspan="2" |2024
|[[Isuzu]]
|[[Isuzu Gemini|Gemini]]
|Building Marty's first ever car. The fastest pizza delivery car in Australia
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19zgF2PBIaY My First Car (but better) Isuzu Gemini Build]
|-
| Volkswagen || [[Volkswagen Amarok|Amarok]]
|
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33CVRnbf3FQ We Built The WORLDS BEST 4X4]
|}
|}



==Reception==
==Reception==
Part of MCM's success stems from the hosts' relatability as everyman car enthusiast, as well as their humorous and laconic nature, and their desire to tackle complex tasks and learn new skills along the way. Their first feature-length film titled ''Turbos and Temples'' was well received by critics and motoring fans when it premiered at Hoyts Cinema, Fox Studios, in [[Sydney]], Australia. So far their videos have garnered more than 780 million views on YouTube, with almost five billion impressions.
Part of MCM's success stems from the hosts' relatability as everyman car enthusiast, as well as their humorous and laconic nature, and their desire to tackle complex tasks and learn new skills along the way. Their first feature-length film titled ''Turbos and Temples'' was well received by critics and motoring fans when it premiered at Hoyts Cinema, Fox Studios, in Sydney. So far their videos have garnered more than 780 million views on YouTube, with almost five billion impressions.


MCM used to publish a digital magazine, which is still available on their web store along with digital downloads of MOOG's music and show merchandise. In 2018, to celebrate their 10th anniversary, ''Mighty Car Mods'' released a limited-edition hardcover 128-page book titled ''The Cars of Mighty Car Mods'', featuring illustrations of all the cars they worked on in their first 10 years. This was updated for 2019 with a further 30 cars added and ''The Cars of Mighty Car Mods: Modified Edition''.
MCM used to publish a digital magazine, which is still available on their web store along with digital downloads of MOOG's music and show merchandise. In 2018, to celebrate their 10th anniversary, ''Mighty Car Mods'' released a limited-edition hardcover 128-page book titled ''The Cars of Mighty Car Mods'', featuring illustrations of all the cars they worked on in their first 10 years. This was updated for 2019 with a further 30 cars added and ''The Cars of Mighty Car Mods: Modified Edition''.

Latest revision as of 21:32, 28 October 2024

Mighty Car Mods
Mighty Car Mods Logo
GenreDocumentary, comedy, mini-series, cars
Created byBlair Joscelyne
Martin Mulholland
Theme music composerBlair Joscelyne
Opening themeGavin Tyrell
Country of originAustralia
Original languageEnglish
No. of seasons12
No. of episodes565
Production
Production locationSydney
Running time20–40 mins
Original release
ReleaseDecember 14, 2007 (2007-12-14)

Mighty Car Mods is a YouTube channel that focuses on DIY car modifications and car culture. Created by Blair Joscelyne (known as MOOG) and Martin Mulholland the show is centred around the journey through buying, modifying and then testing or battling cars of various levels of modification and budget.

While typically based in Sydney, Marty and MOOG have travelled extensively to experience car culture all over the world and create movies from these experiences. They have filmed in locations including Japan, Cuba, Germany, the UAE, America, Switzerland, the UK and New Zealand. They also host The Unicorn Circuit on their MCMtv2 YouTube channel, which keeps fans up to date with automotive news and includes fan submissions.

History

[edit]

Mighty Car Mods debuted on YouTube in January 2008, with the first video ("How to pimp your car for $500") showing basic modifications and upgrades on MOOG's 2001 Daihatsu Cuore that were typical of the period. The long-time friends started making videos showing people how to work on cars at an amateur level as they are typical of many car enthusiasts who like the feeling of satisfaction from doing modifications but do not hold a trade qualification.

Marty actually works in the music/audio production industry and is a sound engineer by trade, while MOOG is a composer and music producer whose work can be heard in commercials for Telstra, Arnotts, Optus, Amex, Ford, BMW, Coles Supermarkets, Loveable Lingerie, IBM, L’Oreal, Heinz, OPSM, Subaru, Origin, Lexus, Jetstar, Touchstone Pictures, Visa Inc, Mazda, Cascade Brewery, Discovery Channel, Renault, Wrigley Company, and Village Cinemas.[1] He has released a number of solo albums and he has been involved with a variety of different bands and musical projects.[2]

In 2022, Mighty Car Mods opened a Collaborative workspace named 'Super Garage' in Sydney, Australia[3]

Format

[edit]
Nissan Silvia S15 a.k.a. Mod Max

The general format for episodes involves buying different cars and modifying them in a particular style or for a particular purpose. Vehicles are typically from what is colloquially known as "late-model Japanese and European tuning" scene with cars ranging in age from the mid-1980s through the 2000s. However, MCM has also done builds on classic Australian cars (HQ Holden), as well as near-new Japanese (Subaru BRZ) and European (Audi RS3, VW Golf R, Lotus Exige S240) vehicles.

Episodes generally commence with a semi-animated introduction, created by Gavin Tyrell, followed by Marty and MOOG giving either an introduction to the project or a rundown of previous episode's highlights. Episodes vary in duration, from 15 to 60 minutes, but most will typically run about 20 minutes.

Sometimes Marty and MOOG will set a challenge to each buy a car with a particular constraint (budget or style of car), and build it independent of each other. The goal of these series is to then battle head-to-head in a series of challenges. Recently MCM has also participated in "Catch and Release" episodes where vehicles are brought in for only one or two episodes, then moved on. Other builds run for months due to the complexity and scale of the modifications being undertaken.

Typically, cars featured in builds will be given a name—often a pun such as Yaris Hilton or Taylor Drift—to build an identity with viewers. The show was originally filmed on Marty's mother's driveway and garage, but was moved to a private indoor location in Sydney in 2015, following issues with people posting spoilers or causing traffic issues in the suburban street.

The MCM duo have released several critically acclaimed feature-length films documenting automotive-focused travel, such as Turbos and Temples, Kei to the City, Chasing Midnight, Turbos and Temples II, The Cars of Cuba, and most recently; Turbos & Temples III. MCM are the first Australian-produced automotive show to be aired globally on Discovery Channel, and MCM also appears on Qantas in-flight entertainment.

Some vehicles that were featured in the films, such as the Daihatsu Mira TR-XX in 'Kei to the City', and the Nissan March Super Turbo in 'Turbos & Temples II' have eventually led to the duo making multiple extended series, after having them imported from Japan and remodified or retrofitted to comply with the safety regulations set by Australia's Road laws.

All music used in the show and associated films is composed and produced by MOOG, with editing and uploading handled by both he and Marty. The mix of technical content with irreverent humor and high production quality has found a fanbase among a wide demographic of people. This has led to Mighty Car Mods videos being viewed more than 780 million times, making MCM one of the most successful shows of its type on YouTube.

Cast

[edit]

Marty typically shows more hands-on mechanical experience in videos, while MOOG will often handle creative tasks involving design or aesthetics. Due to their background as amateur mechanics Marty and MOOG will sometimes enlist the help of industry-qualified experts for complex builds.

Special guests include Miles "Dose Vader" Stinton, Scott "Tuning Fork" Hilzinger, Benny "Mechanical Stig" Neal, and Alan "Turbo Yoda" Butler. Typically, these guests are known by their nicknames, with Turbo Yoda (with his offsider, Ben "Woody" Wood) now hosting The Skid Factory from his home in Queensland, while Mechanical Stig fronts the Benny's Custom Works channel. Tuning Fork works at Haltech, while Dose Vader runs AM Auto in Noosaville in Queensland.

Project cars

[edit]

The year shown is when the project began.

Project Year Car Manufacturer Model Nickname/Information First Appearance
2008 Nissan March Super Turbo
2009 Ford Laser 'TRDLZR'
Mazda 323 Roof chopped to make a "Convertible"
2010 Nissan Pathfinder 'Zombie Proof'
2011 Subaru Liberty
Nissan Silvia (S15) How To Buy a Japanese Car (In Japan)
Subaru Forester XT 'MOOGARU' Subaru Forester XT
Daihatsu Cuore Budget Show Car
Subaru Fiori $50 DIY Stereo
Daihatsu Cuore 'The Blue Turd'
Honda Civic
2012 Mitsubishi Galant 'The Off-Brand Takumi'
Toyota Cressida 'Old Man Sleeper'
Daihatsu Charade Supercharged using Leaf Blowers
Volkswagen Golf (MK3) 'Budget Street Cred'
2013 Nissan 180SX First iteration of what becomes 'Tay Tay' Moog Buys Marty A Car
Mazda MX-5 1990 MX-5 NA
Nissan Figaro
2014 Subaru Liberty (BG/BP) 'Supergramps': Revival of the first iteration of 'Gramps', a 2nd generation Liberty (Legacy) wagon (BG)/EZ36 H6-Turbo swap. Was colloquially known as "The 11 Second Car" Gramps – the 11 Second Car (BG)

Supergramps – Part 1 (BP)

2015 Nissan Silvia (S15) 'Mod Max', General Motors LS engine swap
Mini Cooper JDM model, with Honda B16B Engine Swap
Volkswagen Beetle 'Miss Daisy' Subaru EJ25 swap
2016 Mitsubishi Lancer '2SEXY'
Nissan 180SX 'Tay Tay', 180SX project car from 2013 repurchased MOOGS NEW CAR!
2017 Nissan 350Z '3FIDDY'
Daihatsu Mira The Main Feature for the film 'Kei to the City' – An Australian-market model, retrofitted with the then imported JDM Mira TR-XX X4 from the film to comply with Australia's Road laws. Kei to the City [Drift Feature Film – Japan]
2018 Holden Kingswood (HQ) Police Car livery, General Motors LS engine swap
Mitsubishi Lancer '2TWISTD', Mitsubishi 4G63 engine swap
Nissan 240Z Nissan RB26 engine swap
2019 Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9
Subaru Outback 'OUTFAP'
Toyota Yaris 'Yaris Hilton' Introducing: YARIS HILTON
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk7)
2020 BMW 3 Series (E30) 'Black Ch-Ops', General Motors LS engine swap
Lotus Exige Sport 240
Daihatsu Hijet Tipper Full Custom turbocharger install
Subaru Impreza WRX STi (2-door)
Subaru BRZ
Toyota MR2 'Mr. Poo'
2021 Honda Civic (EP)
Mazda RX-7 (FB)
2022 Daihatsu Midget
Nissan 180SX 180SX – DREAM BUILD
Nissan March Super Turbo The main feature for 'Turbos & Temples 2'. A successor of Martin's first March Super Turbo in 2008 Turbos & Temples 2
Subaru Levorg Impreza WRX STi engine and manual drivetrain swap/upgraded with an EZ30 H6-Turbo swap (known by Martin as 'Hypergramps' in lieu of 'Supergramps' and 'Gramps' prior)
Toyota Hilux We Bought the CHEAPEST HILUX in Australia (then fixed it in ONE DAY)
Toyota GR Yaris
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk8)
2023 Suzuki Swift
Peugeot 206
2024 Isuzu Gemini Building Marty's first ever car. The fastest pizza delivery car in Australia My First Car (but better) Isuzu Gemini Build
Volkswagen Amarok We Built The WORLDS BEST 4X4


Reception

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Part of MCM's success stems from the hosts' relatability as everyman car enthusiast, as well as their humorous and laconic nature, and their desire to tackle complex tasks and learn new skills along the way. Their first feature-length film titled Turbos and Temples was well received by critics and motoring fans when it premiered at Hoyts Cinema, Fox Studios, in Sydney. So far their videos have garnered more than 780 million views on YouTube, with almost five billion impressions.

MCM used to publish a digital magazine, which is still available on their web store along with digital downloads of MOOG's music and show merchandise. In 2018, to celebrate their 10th anniversary, Mighty Car Mods released a limited-edition hardcover 128-page book titled The Cars of Mighty Car Mods, featuring illustrations of all the cars they worked on in their first 10 years. This was updated for 2019 with a further 30 cars added and The Cars of Mighty Car Mods: Modified Edition.

References

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  1. ^ "BLAIR JOSCELYNE : ABOUT". Archived from the original on 24 December 2012. Retrieved 25 January 2013.
  2. ^ "Blair Joscelyne Biography". Retrieved 25 January 2013.
  3. ^ SUPER GARAGE, Super Garage, retrieved 23 July 2022
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