by Australian YouTuber Nathan Paykin has turned a childhood dream into reality by creating a full-size, drivable version of the famous Little Tikes Cozy Coupe children’s toy. His creation is based on an old Suzuki Swift and equipped with a real flamethrower.
From a Cheap Hatchback to a Childhood Dream
The project began with the purchase of a 2006 Suzuki Swift for just 500 Australian dollars. Paykin’s team radically intervened in the structure, cutting the compact hatchback in half. The rear doors and a significant portion of the central body section were removed. After this “surgical” operation, the car was welded back together, becoming much shorter and lower, and received a characteristic red and yellow paint scheme that accurately copies the appearance of the popular children’s car.
Detailing and Technical Features
To achieve maximum resemblance to the plastic toy, the body was given a special texture. The steel wheels were repainted white, and the exhaust system was moved to the side. Nathan Paykin, who jokingly calls himself a “certified butcher,” explained that the building process involved many hours of cutting, grinding, welding, and painting. The goal was to recreate childhood joy in a full-size, fire-breathing version.
Paykin, who cheekily refers to himself as a “certified butcher,” explained that the process involved hours of cutting, grinding, welding, bogging, and painting. The intent, he says, was to resurrect childhood joy in full-size, flame-spitting form.
Extreme Handling Characteristics
The result of the work is a comically tiny microcar with such a short wheelbase that even a Smart Fortwo seems stretched by comparison. The car’s handling is far from ideal. Due to its extreme proportions, spontaneous “stoppies”—lifting the rear wheels into the air—occur during braking. As Paykin notes, the only thing preventing a full flip is the front overhang catching on the asphalt.
The Fiery Final Touch
The compact size also means the cabin barely fits two people. Paykin named his creation “Suzuki Sui,” hinting at the missing central part of the original Swift. Naturally, a project inspired by a toy couldn’t be without a fiery component. Instead of a catalytic converter, the team installed a custom flamethrower that shoots flames from the side exhaust. This car is undoubtedly entertaining, but it is not road-legal and was never meant to be. Instead, it will be displayed at car enthusiast gatherings, remaining a bright, viral, unique project.
Projects like this, while having no practical application, vividly demonstrate the creativity and technical skills of custom car builders. They transform ordinary production cars into moving art objects that evoke emotions and nostalgia. This particular build is not just a modification, but a holistic reimagining of a car, where the form and aesthetics of a children’s toy take priority over functionality and safety. It reminds us that car culture can be lighthearted, ironic, and capable of returning adults to carefree years.
