Welcome to the BTE Racing Car of the Week series, where we feature our loyal customers and drag racing fans, and the cars (and trucks) they love to race. Today we're featuring Cory Berge from Phelan, California, who owns and races a 1981 Toyota Starlet.

How did you get interested in drag racing?
Grew up around it then decided to take a chance offroad. Then I noticed the urge to go faster was there, so I decided it was time to buy a car.

When and where was your first drag race?
Bandimere here in California, just a few weeks ago.

What model/year do you race now? Any special features?
1981 Toyota Starlet with a twin turbo, backed with BTE 2-speed glide and a 9-in 

Does your car have a nickname?
Badbear

What's under the hood?
6.0 with twin 59s 

Which BTE Racing products do you use in your vehicle?
2-speed powerglide 

Why do you use BTE? How has BTE helped you improve your racing?
Customer service is amazing 👏  also the quality of parts BTE lined me up with a new 2-speed 

Describe BTE Racing in 3 words.
Quality, passion, badass.

Who is a drag racer you look up to?
Jeff Lutz

If money were no object, what would your dream car be?
1970 cutlass 442 with 2500 hp 

What is your proudest drag racing moment?
Overcoming all my obstacles and hopping in with zero experience in drag racing before this. On the third pass I broke a stock case trans, but I threw down a 10.5 at 135 mph with a sea level tune at mile high dragstrip.

Why do you race?
Because when I have a dream I make it happen. 

What is your biggest challenge as a driver?
Learning to breathe before, be patient, stab the gas and become a legend.