La Brute Force
After a 20-year career in the U.S. Navy, Justin Cashmore retired in 2019 and seized the chance to build things he loves, “in the best way I can.” His years in the Navy stationed in Japan, Italy, Florida, and California fuelled a passion for global car trends, which he has channelled into his impressive custom car builds, and most notably, a remarkable Renault that’s captured attention far and wide.
The journey of this Renault began in 2017, when Justin “pulled the car out of the desert.” It quickly became a standout, catching the eye of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour and reaching the final round in 2019. Since then, the car has featured among automotive media heavyweights like Stanceworks, Autopia LA, Hoonigan and Avants, and it was crowned the winner of the ENEOS x Pit+Paddock Show Car Contest.
While the Renault proudly displays its original patina, the custom design work underneath is hard to miss. Justin took inspiration from the aggressive looks of Group 5 racing, creating a bespoke carbon-fibre widebody kit that’s widened the car by a staggering 22 inches. Beneath this widebody sits a unique powerplant, a 2.8 litre Volkswagen VR6 24V engine, mounted transversely behind the rear firewall. With a custom tune by United Motorsports and a bespoke intake and exhaust system, this VR6 powerhouse delivers an impressive 230 horsepower.
A VW 02M six-speed gearbox, complete with a Peloquin limited-slip differential, sends power to the wheels. Sitting on the right-hand side of the cockpit, the driver is surrounded by a bumper-to-bumper roll cage within the custom chassis, which allowed Justin to develop an intricate pushrod and bellcrank suspension system using NASCAR take-off Schroeder sway bars.
The car rides on 17-inch Felgen Factory wheels, clad in ultra-wide Toyo R888R tyres, and benefits from a Wilwood big brake kit, ensuring it stops as impressively as it goes. Every element has been thoughtfully crafted, resulting in a masterpiece that’s earned its accolades and admirers alike.
Photo © Renz Dimaandal