STORY: John Matthew
PHOTOGRAPHY: Douglas Little

It is an inevitable consequence of prolonged innovation. To successfully dabble in the previously unknown over any period of time, let alone five years, is sure to invite both rumour and misconception from those who may find themselves still grasping in the darkness of the common.

For twin 21-year-old brothers Anthony and Chris De Guzman the five-year build of the 2002 Toyota Celica GT turbo has simultaneously generated delusions and decorations. The twins purchased the Celica, the first yellow one sold in the province, in October of 2001 after a fair amount of research elevated the Celica over the RSX. Acquired with the sole intent to be customized for both "show and go," it was in their hands for less than a month before receiving new rims, body kit and sound system, just the triggers for an avalanche of auto customization to follow. "We were planning to do stuff, but not to the extent it became. We got carried away," Anthony explained. "We didn't imagine in our wildest dreams that we would get this far with the car," Chris added.

However, earning more than 30 awards at various provincial car shows over the past four years, has led some to believe the tires see more trailer than pavement. It is a misconception Anthony and Chris quickly dismissed. "They think we just bring it to shows and that's it. But I drive it. I may not take it to work, but I drive it in the evening afterwards," Anthony said. "They think it is a trailer queen," Chris confirmed. "But it has never been on a trailer."

With more than 100 custom components and 18 official sponsors others believe the car has been largely handed to the twins by either their parents or their corporate backers. "I hate the misperception that our mommy and daddy paid for it or they think that every single part was free and we never paid for one thing," Anthony said. "We both work hard and put all our hard earned money into it and you must do something to your car first before you get sponsored or else every stock car would be sponsored."

Lastly, Chris reported that many believe that the car that has become synonymous with the twins themselves is their sole fixation. In reality, the twins both lead active lives filled with the usual fare such as school, jobs and girlfriends as well as extraordinary pursuits such as a potential recording contract for Chris. "When we are in school usually we can't touch it. During the spring break and the winter and after school is done we go at it. But it's not like our car is our life, we have other things going on in our lives too," Chris said.

In fact, this maybe the greatest challenge the DATWINZ build has yet to encounter. Just as the latest round of modifications, which included a new paintjob, stage 2 turbo kit and custom wheels, has brought the Celica close to its customization apex, Chris is preparing to depart the province for optometry school. This will mark both the first time the twins have been separated for a prolonged period and an unknown challenge to the Celica's continued evolution.