- 26 Feb 2003
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Yes--as you may have guessed from my profile,I am a huge fan of these sleek and sexy Japanese sports cars. They have recently become more affordable (especially out on the West coast) although one can still expect to pay a hefty price especially if you're planning on importing one. In America, Supras were available up until 1998. What makes the Supra so special? Well, it's all about the engine... You see, the 2JZ engine is considered a monster in the auto world, especially in terms of tuning and performance upgrades which if done properly, are able to unleash in excess of 900 hp (although expect to drop some serious cash if you go that route).
I was first mesmerized by the Supra when I was in Japan and was fortunate to make acquaintances with several amateur street racers who gave me an inside glimpse into the world of street and track racing, as well as drifting. Interestingly enough, like so many young Japanese women have preoccupations with spending all their money on the latest fashions and or accessories, these guys dumped ALL their money under their hoods so to speak. I've been hooked ever since and have continued to follow the scene even though I am no longer in Japan atm. In fact, I am probably one of the only American ALT's in my area (at least that I know of) to actually own and drive a new Toyota while there lol. *shudders at Shakken and compliance fees*
Unfortunately here in America street racing per se has a negative connotation to it and it's reputation outside of a few dedicated areas (West coast/Bay area primarily) has resulted in amateurish reckless driving in pedestrian filled areas often times resulting in tragic accidents and it should be noted that I do NOT condone this type of behavior in any way shape or form. There are certainly enough abandoned, deserted, and generally wide-open venues to race if one takes the time to become familiar with the local scene. And if all else fails, you can always pay a few bucks to test your machine at a dedicated track facilty open to the public.
At any rate, I just thought i'd post a few links of a few examples of Supras for my fellow enthusiasts:
http://www.popsci.com/popsci/auto/article/0,12543,423014-2,00.html
Built by Keith Ta who owns the Speed Force Racing tuner shop in San Diego this is a perfect example of what one can do when the sky's the limit (1200 hp!?! yikes!) There is also an especially sweet street legal 600+ hp Civic at this site that has to be seen to be believed...)
http://www.toyota-supra.com/toyota-supra-racing-gallery.htm
Here are some really nice pics of high-end performance modified Supras not for the faint of heart 8-p
StreetRacing.org - The Legend
This site is THE dedicated online community for racing enthusiasts and gearheads alike (of which I am also a member btw). A great meeting place to show off your cars, ask for advice, or plan and coordinate meeting spots if your in the area. Definitely more geared for imports although all makes and models are covered.
I was first mesmerized by the Supra when I was in Japan and was fortunate to make acquaintances with several amateur street racers who gave me an inside glimpse into the world of street and track racing, as well as drifting. Interestingly enough, like so many young Japanese women have preoccupations with spending all their money on the latest fashions and or accessories, these guys dumped ALL their money under their hoods so to speak. I've been hooked ever since and have continued to follow the scene even though I am no longer in Japan atm. In fact, I am probably one of the only American ALT's in my area (at least that I know of) to actually own and drive a new Toyota while there lol. *shudders at Shakken and compliance fees*
Unfortunately here in America street racing per se has a negative connotation to it and it's reputation outside of a few dedicated areas (West coast/Bay area primarily) has resulted in amateurish reckless driving in pedestrian filled areas often times resulting in tragic accidents and it should be noted that I do NOT condone this type of behavior in any way shape or form. There are certainly enough abandoned, deserted, and generally wide-open venues to race if one takes the time to become familiar with the local scene. And if all else fails, you can always pay a few bucks to test your machine at a dedicated track facilty open to the public.
At any rate, I just thought i'd post a few links of a few examples of Supras for my fellow enthusiasts:
http://www.popsci.com/popsci/auto/article/0,12543,423014-2,00.html
Built by Keith Ta who owns the Speed Force Racing tuner shop in San Diego this is a perfect example of what one can do when the sky's the limit (1200 hp!?! yikes!) There is also an especially sweet street legal 600+ hp Civic at this site that has to be seen to be believed...)
http://www.toyota-supra.com/toyota-supra-racing-gallery.htm
Here are some really nice pics of high-end performance modified Supras not for the faint of heart 8-p
StreetRacing.org - The Legend
This site is THE dedicated online community for racing enthusiasts and gearheads alike (of which I am also a member btw). A great meeting place to show off your cars, ask for advice, or plan and coordinate meeting spots if your in the area. Definitely more geared for imports although all makes and models are covered.
