Electric Cars

The Department of Transportation's 25-year import exemption rule continues to open doors for enthusiasts to bring previously forbidden vehicles into the United States, and this year, the spotlight falls on the unique Japanese Tommykaira ZZ roadster. While the Renault Avantime, a quirky minivan-sized coupe, also makes the list, the Tommykaira ZZ offers a distinctly different, feather-light driving experience. Known for its agile handling and compact design, the entire first-generation production run of this elusive car is now eligible for import, sparking excitement among collectors and driving aficionados alike.

Originating from the vision of Yoshikazu Tomita, a European sports car importer, and Kikuo Kaira, a Formula 2 racer with a keen engineering mind, Tommykaira initially built a reputation by tuning popular production cars like the Impreza and Skyline. This expertise eventually led to the creation of their own vehicle, the ZZ. Powered by a Nissan-sourced SR20 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the ZZ delivers 178 horsepower, while the ZZ-S variant boasts 197 horsepower. Its remarkable power-to-weight ratio, comparable to the formidable R34 Skyline GT-R, is achieved through an incredibly low curb weight of just over 1400 pounds, making it significantly lighter than even a Lotus Elise.

However, owning a Tommykaira ZZ comes with its own set of considerations. As these vehicles were manufactured in the U.K. under contract, certain spare parts can be exceedingly difficult to find, often requiring custom fabrication. Furthermore, the roadster's minimal weather protection means drivers should be prepared for exposure to the elements. With only 220 units ever produced, locating one can be a challenge, yet its rarity and cult status, amplified by its inclusion in the Gran Turismo video game series, make it a highly desirable collector's item. The chance to park a Tommykaira ZZ alongside a Renault Avantime would undoubtedly create one of the most intriguing and satisfying two-car collections imaginable.

The automotive world is rich with diverse engineering achievements, and the Tommykaira ZZ stands as a testament to the pursuit of pure driving exhilaration. Its journey from a Japanese niche product to an importable classic inspires us to appreciate the ingenuity and passion that drives innovation in vehicle design. This opportunity to experience such a distinctive machine firsthand reminds us that true gems often lie beyond the conventional, waiting to be discovered and celebrated for their unique contributions to automotive history.

A distinctive 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster, transformed by the aftermarket specialists at Strosek Design, is now available for bids on Bring a Trailer. This particular model stands as a vivid representation of 1990s car tuning culture, diverging significantly from the original production run of just 356 units. Its bold aesthetics and remarkably low mileage of only 6,000 miles make it a noteworthy offering. While it might challenge the sensibilities of Porsche traditionalists, its unique modifications, including a redesigned front fascia, broader body, distinct side mirrors, and integrated side-sill nacelles, encapsulate the era's penchant for aerodynamic and organic styling, reminiscent of Porsche's own 'flachbau' 911s.

Strosek-Modified 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster Hits the Auction Block

In a fascinating turn of events, a 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster, meticulously customized by Strosek Design—a renowned Porsche tuner from the 1990s—is presently open for bids on Bring a Trailer. This particular vehicle, one of only 356 Speedsters produced by Porsche in 1994 as an homage to its iconic predecessor, carries a lineage tied to baseball legend Barry Bonds, who famously owned a similar model. Its most striking features include a radically altered front end, replacing the classic round headlights with smaller, more angular units, alongside expanded bodywork, unique side mirrors, and distinctive side-sill nacelles. Underneath its bold exterior, the car retains its original 3.6-liter flat-six engine, delivering a robust 247 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Strosek also fine-tuned the suspension, enhancing its performance. With an impressively low odometer reading of just 6,000 miles and newly fitted Michelin tires on its 17-inch Oz racing wheels, this modified classic is primed for its next enthusiast. The auction is scheduled to conclude on January 30, offering a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of 90s automotive history.

This particular 911 Speedster prompts reflection on the evolving tastes in automotive design and the fine line between classic preservation and creative modification. It reminds us that while some designs are timeless, others serve as vibrant capsules of their era, challenging perceptions and sparking debate among enthusiasts. The vehicle's journey from a limited-production Porsche to a Strosek-tuned showpiece, now seeking a new owner, underscores the dynamic nature of car culture and the enduring allure of unique automotive artistry. It's a reminder that beauty and desirability can be found in many forms, even those that initially appear to defy convention.