Electric Cars

An exciting journey into automotive excellence unfolded in 1988, as Car and Driver magazine collaborated with Germany's Sport Auto for an extraordinary high-performance vehicle comparison. The focal point was a curated selection of extensively modified cars, each representing the pinnacle of aftermarket engineering for its respective brand. Originally intended to include an AMG Hammer Coupe, a last-minute change saw the Lotec Mercedes 300CE Turbo step in, joining the Ruf Porsche 911 Turbo, Callaway Corvette, and Brandenburger Lister Jaguar XJ-S for a rigorous evaluation designed to push these machines to their limits.

Each vehicle brought a unique set of modifications to the table. The Lotec Mercedes, starting as a 300CE, received a significant power boost from a Rayjay turbocharger and an advanced electronic control system, nearly doubling its original horsepower. Chassis enhancements included Koni shocks and stiffer springs for improved handling. The Brandenburger Lister Jaguar XJ-S was a visual and mechanical powerhouse, featuring custom bodywork, a stroked Cosworth crankshaft, and an impressive 475 horsepower, complemented by a modified five-speed gearbox and a specially tuned suspension. The Callaway Corvette, a prototype for the European market, showcased a twin-turbocharged V-8 with around 400 horsepower, a high-performance suspension, and specialized aerodynamic components. Finally, the Ruf Porsche 911 Turbo embodied a dedication to pure speed, with extensive engine modifications, a bespoke five-speed transmission, and a chassis refined for ultimate driving dynamics, all while maintaining a classic 911 aesthetic.

The comparison tests highlighted the raw power and distinct driving experiences of these custom-built machines. The Lotec Mercedes, while the "slowest" of the group, still impressed with a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 170 mph. The Brandenburger Jaguar offered a compelling blend of power and sophistication, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 175 mph. The Ruf Porsche demonstrated formidable acceleration, hitting 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds and reaching an astounding 187 mph. However, it was the Callaway Corvette that claimed the top speed crown, rocketing to 193 mph. The article also vividly recounted a harrowing incident during the top-speed testing: a high-speed tire blowout in the Callaway Corvette, underscoring the critical importance of selecting the correct tires for extreme performance. This event highlighted the driver's skill and the car's inherent stability in a crisis, serving as a cautionary tale about the fine balance between performance and safety.

This deep dive into 1980s tuner cars showcases not only the ingenuity of automotive engineers and customizers but also the relentless human pursuit of speed and performance. It reminds us that while pushing boundaries, meticulous attention to detail, rigorous testing, and an understanding of vehicle dynamics are paramount for both exhilarating performance and driver safety. The spirit of innovation and the quest for automotive perfection continue to inspire, demonstrating that dedication and passion can transform extraordinary machines into legendary icons.

This feature from the May/June 2026 edition of Car and Driver chronicles the storied progression of the Nissan 240SX. The narrative frames the vehicle's lifespan as a three-part drama, detailing its initial tentative steps, its zenith as a beloved sports coupe, and its eventual fade from the American market. The article particularly emphasizes the golden era of the 240SX, specifically the models produced between 1991 and 1994, which captivated driving enthusiasts with their exceptional balance and agility, paving the way for the burgeoning drifting culture.

A Detailed Look at the Nissan 240SX's Evolution

In the spring of 2026, Car and Driver revisited the iconic Nissan 240SX, a vehicle whose trajectory, much like life itself, unfolded in distinct phases. Initially launched in 1988, the first generation of the 240SX was often perceived as lacking vigor, an "undercooked" offering despite its appealing aesthetics. The true turning point arrived in 1991 with a significant upgrade: the introduction of double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. This enhancement boosted the engine's output to 155 horsepower, drastically improving throttle response and elevating the car's dynamic capabilities, though it still wasn't a powerhouse by any means.

This second act, spanning the years 1991 to 1994, is fondly remembered by enthusiasts. During this period, the 240SX distinguished itself with power directed to the rear wheels, complemented by a sophisticated multilink suspension and an optional four-wheel steering system. These features provided remarkable stability and control, setting it apart from contemporaries like the Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, and Mitsubishi Eclipse. The car's nearly perfect 53.0/47.0 front-to-rear weight distribution contributed to its legendary flat and neutral handling, making it an indispensable choice for the emerging Japanese drifting community. Many drifters would later augment the car's power with large aftermarket turbochargers.

Tests from 1992 revealed the 240SX achieved an impressive 0.85 g of grip and could halt from 70 mph in just 164 feet, a performance comparable to high-end sports cars of that era. The coveted $500 handling package, which included a limited-slip rear differential, firmer suspension, four-wheel steering, and summer tires, further enhanced its performance credentials. However, obtaining this package necessitated additional investments in air conditioning and anti-lock brakes, pushing the total cost close to $20,000.

Aesthetically, the 240SX was a head-turner, boasting a sleek design with a drag coefficient as low as 0.31. Despite its positive attributes, some critics, including Art St. Antoine from Car and Driver, pointed out its relatively modest acceleration, taking 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph, and the somewhat coarse engine vibration at its 5600-rpm peak. Nevertheless, its comfortable "monoform" seats and satisfying five-speed shifter made it a suitable choice for long-distance driving, a rarity in its class.

By 1995, as the market began shifting towards SUVs, Nissan attempted to re-style the 240SX to resemble its Japan-market Silvia coupe. However, this final iteration, often seen as a departure from its performance roots, struggled with sales. By 1998, with disappointing figures, the 240SX ceased production in the U.S. market, marking the end of an era. Despite its eventual withdrawal, the 240SX continues to evoke a strong sense of nostalgia among car enthusiasts, remembered as a nearly perfect sports car that, like a marathon runner, almost reached the finish line before taking a detour.

The journey of the Nissan 240SX serves as a fascinating case study in automotive evolution and market dynamics. Its initial missteps and subsequent transformation into a celebrated driver's car highlight the importance of balancing power, handling, and design. The article prompts us to reflect on how market trends, such as the SUV boom, can dramatically reshape consumer preferences and impact the longevity of even beloved niche vehicles. Furthermore, the enduring appeal of the 240SX within the drifting community underscores the profound influence a car's innate characteristics can have, often inspiring dedicated subcultures to push its boundaries far beyond its original design intent. It reminds us that sometimes, true greatness is found not just in raw power, but in the harmony of its components and the passion it ignites.