Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson is auctioning his first car, a modified 2000 Subaru Forester, to raise money for the New Zealand charity I AM HOPE. It's listed on New Zealand auction site Trade Me.
“We wanted to really push the project and make the car as cool as we can and then auction it for I AM HOPE. A lot of people have a connection to the charity, or have some experience with, myself included,” Lawson said.
I AM HOPE is a New Zealand-based charity that focuses on the mental health of young people, offering its services to more than 400,000 schoolchildren across the country over the past 10 years.
“It’s been a far longer project than I ever imagined but I’m excited that it’s finally going to auction," the Racing Bulls driver continued. "There’s been a few dramas along the way but finally it’s ready to go and I hope we can raise not only awareness for the I AM HOPE charity, but also shine a light on youth mental health, especially young men, at a time of the year when the Gumboot Friday is in full swing."
Mike King, founder of I AM HOPE, welcomed the support. “This is Kiwi generosity at its best: a much-loved first car rebuilt into thousands of minutes of free counselling. Liam, Matt and their crew have taken a passion project and made it a lifeline for our kids.
"If you bid, you’re not just buying a car – you’re buying time with a counsellor when it matters. Getting your hands on an awesome car and helping kids at the same time is a no-brainer. Thank you to Liam and Matt for their incredible effort.”
Matt Stevens helped build the car, which now features a new W20C short block, which has undergone a full rebuild and performance installation by Possum Bourne Motorsport. Now creating over 300 WHP thanks to a number of upgrades such as a new VF34 STI Turbo, high-flow fuel pump, ARP head studs, and full turbo-back exhaust system, it now has plenty of power when the go pedal is stamped on.
To keep it on the track, it also boasts Whiteline sway bars and a strut brace, as well as BG World Wheels five-spoke alloys with semi-slick tyres.
“Customising a car like this is not without issues along the way but I’m confident we have something unique now," Stevens said. "With over $25,000 spent on the car over and above all the performance parts that have been kindly donated, it’s probably the world’s most expensive Forester.
“Whoever is the successful bidder on this car is guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind vehicle. After seeing this transform from what we started with it’s kinda sad to see it go, but it was always intended to be donated to I AM HOPE so I’m just pleased we finally nailed it,” Stevens added.
“So many people and businesses kindly supported us, I only hope I’ve remembered everyone. Just a huge thank you to all those who came on this journey which has taken longer than we expected but I’m so glad we’ve got it ready for Gumboot Friday this year.”
With just 1000km on the new engine since its rebuild, this solid vehicle is a one-of-a-kind for the lucky bidder. Cosmetic finishes include Cruz roof racks with a Yakima roof box (donated and fitted by Roof Racks NZ), a full interior and exterior detail with ceramic coating by Cutting Edge Detail Pukekohe and a Satin Dark Grey wrap.
Porter Group covered compliance and build costs, with additional support from Crème Insurance. The car carries Lawson’s race number 30 and a signed dashboard by the driver himself.
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