I recently inherited a 92 Camry LE and I've been talking to a few friends about what I can do to it. After a few months of thought, I finally decided to start a project: "Ultimate Sleeper"... without knowing the first thing about modding cars. After doing a bit of research, and a thorough inspection of the car, I've realized that I'll pretty much need to replace everything but the body. I have no idea where to start though, and would really appreciate any suggestions on what to do first.

Here is a list of things that work: (a lot shorter than a list of broken parts)
A/C compressor
Power steering
Power brakes
All lighting interior and exterior
And the sound system/radio which has previously been upgraded before I got it

 

Are you up to the effort and expense?

The 4-cyl is not known for HP but can add a turbo.

 

I'm always up for the effort and the expenses don't worry me. Plus it's not like I don't have another car while I'm working this one.

The engine block has a crack in it, so I'm just looking for the meanest engine that can fit inside it.

 

Might look into to a 5SGTE engine. Don't think it was ever used in an automatic trans car thus no ECU for auto and may need a stick. This swap will require work.

The 1MZ-FE engine/trans is a bolt-in option as it was an option. This engine is more favorable to modification. If going this route find a totaled donor car to be able to swap parts, as a lot of parts will need to be swapped.

The 4-cylinder auto trans may not hold up to a lot of HP.

 

The trans is pretty much dead, so it's getting replaced anyway. The previous owner never changed the fluid and it now looks like there's black metallic paint inside.

I'm sure I can find an engine with an appropriate trans attached though, the only problem would be finding that specific engine for a decent price.

Thanks for the tip. Honestly, this project is going to take a while. Everything leaks and is on the verge of breaking. I don't even know how its still running.