For those of us passionate about cars, a garage is more than just storage; it’s a sanctuary. City living often means sacrificing space, a reality keenly felt by car lovers in places like New York City where garage space is a luxury. The struggle to find room for our automotive passions is real, often pushing enthusiasts to the outskirts or back to their parents’ homes. Street parking becomes a risky alternative, leaving our prized possessions vulnerable.
But imagine a different scenario. Picture being in the heart of a bustling city, yet having ample space to indulge your automotive obsession. This is the reality for P’Lan in Bangkok. Nestled amidst the urban sprawl of Sukhumvit, his garage is a treasure trove for anyone who appreciates classic cars and the golden age of video games. It’s a true haven for enthusiasts in the “City of Angels,” showcasing that passion for automobiles can thrive even in the most metropolitan environments.
During my visit to Thailand, Nukung from Stickyride introduced me to P’Lan’s incredible private garage. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule, especially if you’re a fan of 90s cars and video games. This space is a genuine holy grail. While many car enthusiasts, myself included, hold onto parts with future projects in mind, P’Lan is a true collector. Each item in his garage is carefully curated, holding personal significance. His collection isn’t just about accumulating; it’s about celebrating the shared experiences and nostalgia that cars evoke. P’Lan generously shared his passion for 90s automotive culture, an experience I deeply value.
P’Lan’s garage is a curated museum blending automotive and video game memorabilia seamlessly. The design synergy between these two passions is striking. For over two decades, he has amassed an impressive collection of rare steering wheels, display items, and automotive treasures. Sourcing items primarily from Japan through auctions, estate sales, and liquidations, P’Lan has become known within the local automotive community for acquiring the seemingly unattainable. This reputation has allowed him to turn his passion into a small side venture, catering to enthusiasts of AE86, NSX, and GT-R models, providing access to rare parts and memorabilia, possibly even specialized Car Tools Bangkok collectors might seek for maintenance.
Among the standout cars is a museum-quality GT-R Vspec II Nür, a model whose value is only set to increase. Parked beside it, a BNR32 Skyline GT-R is maintained to the same impeccable standard. What’s particularly remarkable are the complete sets of optional parts from when the BNR32 was originally sold. Knee pads, Nismo Recaro seats, Alcon big brakes, Enkei wheels, and numerous other accessories, many of which I was unaware even existed, highlight the depth of P’Lan’s knowledge and dedication to these iconic vehicles. Maintaining such vehicles in pristine condition likely requires a specialized collection of car tools Bangkok enthusiasts would envy.
Another rare find is a pristine FC3S Mazda RX-7 convertible. Convertible models of the RX-7 are particularly uncommon in Thailand, as they were never officially sold domestically and only available through imports. Equipped with incredibly rare Recaro A8 seats, P’Lan even had another pair stored away, showcasing his foresight and commitment to detail. For collectors like P’Lan, access to specialized car tools Bangkok might offer is crucial for sourcing and maintaining these rare gems.
For MotoGP fans, a Rothmans Honda NSR250 stands out, boasting SP magnesium wheels, adjustable rear suspension, and a stabilizer. The presence of a rag and floor mat hints at P’Lan’s hands-on approach, often performing oil changes on his bike right in the garage. One of the most admirable aspects of P’Lan’s passion is his dedication to DIY. He personally undertakes everything from converting AP1 NSXs into NSX-Rs to meticulously working on rare Nismo parts, likely utilizing a comprehensive set of car tools Bangkok garages can provide.
The display cases are filled with a diverse array of unique and rare items that complement his car obsession. An individual throttle body setup for the C series NSX engine, possibly a Jenvey, appears brand new. NSX-R shift knobs, priced around $300 each, are casually displayed, highlighting the value and rarity of his collection. For tasks like installing these performance parts, having access to quality car tools Bangkok suppliers offer would be essential.
One of P’Lan’s previous cars was an AE86, and his collection includes items from that era, appealing to fans of Initial D.
A standout feature of the garage is the wall of steering wheels, many of which are now incredibly rare and valuable. Brands like Mugen, Falcon Racing, Impul, Mazdaspeed, Porsche Martini Racing, ATC, Honda Racing, Nismo, Tom’s, Kei Office, and BBS are just some of the tuners represented. Many more are carefully stored away, protected from light and temperature to preserve their condition. For enthusiasts who appreciate these details, knowing where to find specialized car tools Bangkok or even just the right cleaning supplies to maintain these items is part of the passion.
The entire space evokes the atmosphere of a flea market, but one filled with high-value items, most of which are not for sale. Flea markets offer a glimpse into the past and the interests of others, and P’Lan’s garage captures this essence perfectly. Classic Astroboy, Popeye, Dragonball Z figures, and model JGTC race cars are displayed, adding to the nostalgic charm.
Among the video game consoles, P’Lan highlighted the Famicom, the Japanese version of the NES. He shared his observation that Japanese technology, especially in the past, often prioritized the domestic market with superior products, a concept that extended to the automotive world with JDM parts often exceeding US market offerings. This realization sparked both P’Lan’s and my shared obsession with all things JDM.
In another corner, a pristine Bavarian beauty resides – a 993 C4S in Iris blue, fitted with Work Brombacher wheels.
Out in the back, P’Lan is undertaking an in-house NSX-R conversion project, a testament to his skills and dedication.
Wheel setups for future projects are neatly organized, hinting at ongoing plans and passions.
It’s reassuring to find others who share the same passions. Despite only knowing P’Lan for a short time, the instant camaraderie within the automotive community is undeniable. If you’re a fellow enthusiast and would like to share your own collection, please reach out. We’re always eager to explore unique spaces and the stories behind them. Thanks again to P’Lan and Nukung for this incredible garage tour. For anyone in Bangkok seeking inspiration or perhaps even specialized car tools Bangkok connections, P’Lan’s garage is a must-see (by appointment, of course!).
