Meet Sheila – My 2003 Volkswagen Bora

Sheila isn’t just a car. She’s a dream, a passion, and a journey of faith.  I prayed for this car, and I named her Sheila – meaning "heavenly blind faith." Over the years, I’ve poured my heart and soul into fixing her, but due to mechanical issues, she has spent more time parked than on the road. Now, I’m on a mission to give her a second life with a manual transmission swap and a full restoration—and I need your help to make it happen!

Why Manual? The Purest Driving Experience

I firmly believe that cars were meant to be manual. They are mechanical machines, and nothing compares to the connection you feel when you’re truly engaged with the car—shifting gears, feeling the vibrations, hearing the engine sing. Driving shouldn’t just be about getting from A to B; it should be an experience, a bond between man and machine. That’s why this swap is so important to me—it’s about making Sheila the car she was always meant to be.

What Needs to Be Done?

The project involves much more than just a transmission swap. Here’s the full breakdown of what I plan to do:

Phase 1: The Manual Transmission Swap

• Purchase and install an O2J manual gearbox
• Install the clutch, flywheel, pedal assembly, and hydraulic system
• Ensure full compatibility with the engine and ECU

The Budget

(I’ve found a local mechanic who can install the transmission and set everything up for $13,600 TTD ($2,000 USD), which is a great deal. "This is phase 1")

How You Can Help

1. Donate

Every contribution, no matter how small, brings Sheila one step closer to the road again. Your support means the world to me.

2. Share Your Advice

If you’re an enthusiast, mechanic, or VW fan, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Even if you can’t donate, your insights can help me make the best choices for the build. Tell me if I’m doing something wrong, suggest upgrades, or just share your experience!

3. Get Involved in the Build!

I want to make this a community project! Supporters will have a say in Sheila’s final look and feel. Here’s how:

• Voting on modifications (rim colors, interior details, lights, etc.)
• Suggesting cool aftermarket parts
• Sending stickers to be part of the build

Final Thoughts

Sheila is more than just a project. She’s a representation of perseverance, passion, and faith. I refuse to give up on her, and with your support, we can make this dream a reality. Let’s bring Sheila back to life together!

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Every dollar, every share, every word of encouragement means the world to me!