Art of Speed 2023 Festival Kicks-Off This Weekend – July 29-30, MAEPS

The Art of Speed 2023 is happening this weekend!

ASEAN’s largest customisation and counterculture event, the Art of Speed 2023 (AOS) is officially back this year. Happening at the MAEPS, Serdang from July 29 to 30, this festival gathers custom fans and fellow petrolheads – both two- and four-wheelers – in one place where they can check out special models on display, as well as supporting their favourite brands by purchasing exclusive merchandise.

However, it is safe to say that the crown jewel of this festival is the vehicle displays, which ranges from classic Americanas to iconic JDM models, and of course, several souped-out customised models. Without further ado, here are some models that you can look forward to seeing live at the AOS 2023…

The Classics

Classic cars have always been the go-to project models for modders since aeons. While some modifications could be considered as ‘controversial’ for some set of fans, customising a classic car allows modders to put their own twist, or in some cases, ‘modernise’ an icon in their own distinct way.

RWB Porsche 964 911 (top), Ford Mustang Fastback (left), Cadillac Coupe DeVille lowrider (right)

Of all the customised classics on display at MAEPS’ Hall A this weekend, we’d reckon the 964-gen Porsche 911 built by renowned Japanese tuning house Rauh-Welt Begriff (RWB) will definitely turn some heads. Aside from that, you can also find several American classics like this Bullitt-inspired Ford Mustang, as well as some lowriders, notably this Cadillac Coupe DeVille.

For those who aren’t keen on the overtly-done customisation, there’s also several mint classic cars on display like these two classic Alfas, as well as this red-hued MG MGB GT. Want to see something more rugged and beaten-up? Then how about this ‘relic-ed’ Land Rover Defender?

The JDMs – Classic and Modern

It is no secret that Japanese cars, be it modern or classic, have garnered millions of enthusiasts and fans globally, and Malaysia is no exception to the JDM fever. For those who missed out on a few JDM-centric auto shows before, perhaps this too can be a perfect chance for you to catch a glimpse at some iconic JDMs.

Two classic Nissan Skylines (top) headline a slew of other JDM classics on display

Starting with the classics, there’s two classic Nissan Skyline models which are kept mint and true to its original form. Elsewhere you’ll see several customised and heavily-modded Datsuns, Nissans, and Toyotas.

Those two classic Skylines are paired with two R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R – which is one of the most, if not, the most iconic JDM models of all time. Going alongside these two modern marvels are yet another JDM icon, which is a twin of Toyota AE86 Sprinter Trueno – one in all-black colourway, while the other is in the iconic black-white panda guise.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 3-converted Proton Putra

Elsewhere, Hall A also features an Evo 3 Coupe that Mitsubishi never made, in the form of a converted Proton Putra coupe. At one glance, you’ll be forgiven for thinking that this is an actual two-door Evo 3, as the conversion work done on this Putra is very clean and mint.

The Two-Wheelers – Old and New

Granted, there are tons of customised bikes on display at the AOS 2023, which is part of the festival’s charm since its inception.

Gimme Shelter Service Chop (left) & No Die Cycles (right) displays at Hall A, MAEPS

Here you can find different types of custom bikes, ranging from choppers to bobbers and more that are all hailed from renowned customisation houses like Gimme Shelter Service Chop, No Die Cycles, Kustomstyle, and more.

Aside from customs, several bike brands also participated in showcasing their latest models, which granted visitors an opportunity to purchase official merchandise from them.

All motorcycle enthusiasts, big or small, gathered under one roof at the Art of Speed 2023

Stepping outside of the exhibition halls and you’ll find tons of bikes, all of them are actual bikes owned by several riding enthusiasts and motorcycle clubs (MCs). Aligned with the AOS 2023’s theme of ‘Raikan Bezamu’ (celebrate your differences), you can see different types of bike groups from Vespas to cruisers all gathered together for this festival.

Hot Wheels Malaysia's inaugural Collectors Convention is taking place at Hall B, MAEPS

Aside from the vehicle exhibition, the AOS 2023 also hosted Malaysia’s first-ever Hot Wheels Collectors Convention. This inaugural event gathers Hot Wheels fans from across the nation in one place, where not only they can check out some unique and rare collections, but there’s also a dedicated swap marketplace where they can trade-off or buy other Hot Wheels models from fellow collectors.

The Proton Saga Hot Wheels 1:64 scale model, with artwork designed by a 9-year old Penangite

Speaking of Hot Wheels, AOS 2023 also saw the Hot Wheels x Proton Saga 1:64 diecast model make its global debut. Available on sale in 2024, several units of the Saga diecast model will come with a special artwork done by Saw Jane Harna, a 9-year old Penangite who’ve won the Hot Wheels x Proton design competition.

Diecasts and official merch aside, you can find many street vendors selling custom parts and accessories, as well as several vintage outlets selling fashion items and collectibles.

Elsewhere, the AOS 2023 is held concurrently with the SoundCircus music festival. Featuring tons of local and regional acts like No Good and Superman Is Dead, visitors can indulge themselves with live music at the outdoor main stage, which is a walking distance from the AOS main exhibition halls.

The Art of Speed 2023 festival is happening this weekend, from July 29 to 30 at MAEPS Serdang, with exhibitions opening from 10AM to 7 PM. Ticket prices start at RM35, which can be purchased online via Art of Speed’s official website.