Final yr was my first go to to the huge Anime Matsuri occasion within the coronary heart of Houston, Texas. The attract of searching out vehicles at an anime conference drew me again for 2024.
Anime Matsuri’s environment is exclusive, mixing subcultures I’m solely mildly acquainted with alongside ones I deeply embrace.
Whereas, like each Italian of my era, I grew up watching over-dubbed Japanese anime on Italian TV, I’m nowhere near an anime otaku (nerd). I’m, nevertheless, an authorized automotive otaku, and whereas I felt like just a little fish out of the water on the 2023 Anime Matsuri this yr, I started to seek out my groove.
It’s most likely due to the numerous enhancements within the automotive section this yr. The native Aston Martin distributor returned, displaying beautiful fashions just like the DBX 707 – probably my favourite SUV – and a metallic blue DB11.
However, unsurprisingly, it’s the genuine Japanese aspect of issues that the Anime Matsuri’s organizer actually nails.
For 2024, they once more showcased an unimaginable Tremendous GT race automotive from Japan, persevering with a powerful partnership with TOM’s. Seeing the GT500 class Lexus LC up shut was a spotlight, particularly trying out all of the intricate carbon fiber particulars across the exterior aero.
The official Toyota lineup included this vibrant itasha GR Corolla, a mannequin that’s turn out to be fairly well-liked within the US partially because of the GR Yaris not being bought right here. In reality, I noticed extra GR Corollas throughout my week in Texas than previously eight months in Japan!
The most important shock? Lastly, I noticed a Tesla Cybertruck up shut and in individual. And never only one, however two on the present and lots of extra on the streets of Houston.
Other than the distinctive design, the Cybertruck’s sheer measurement – its size particularly – actually stood out.
I even took the Gundam-liveried Cybertruck for a drive after the present. Don’t let its appears idiot you – it drives impressively effectively and is so quick off the road.
Anime Matsuri excels at celebrating all issues Japan – encompassing anime, manga, and cosplay, whereas seamlessly merging into automotive tradition.
This crossover is one thing the organizers acknowledge and can proceed to construct upon. Take Preliminary D, for instance. Who doesn’t know concerning the well-liked manga/anime collection?
Now, let’s dive into the JDM goodness on show this yr…
It was nice to see this Nissan S14 once more; an ideal instance of how easy, coherent modifications can stand the check of time. The C-West aero and widened fenders paired with Takata NSX-inspired inexperienced RAYS Volk Racing TE37s work so effectively. It was additionally cool to see the Speedhunters sticker nonetheless proudly displayed.
Right here’s a construct that screams ‘Texas’: a rear-wheel-drive, 6-second drag R35 GT-R.
Generally known as the Kimbo GT-R, this beast constructed by The Store Houston runs a 4.1L VR38 with an enormous single turbo setup, permitting it to develop 2,000hp.
I spent a really very long time taking in all the small print, of which there are numerous. Virtually nothing stays from the unique automotive; the entrance is tube-framed, whereas the rear sports activities an enormous 9-inch diff. A Turbo 400 computerized transmission replaces the unique dual-clutch GR6. I used to be notably fascinated by the reversed consumption manifold, ingeniously fed by pipes from the cost cooler within the passenger footwell. Now I must see these machines run on the drag strip!
In Texas, you both go massive or don’t go in any respect, as evidenced by this carbon fiber-clad Audi RS3.
Its distinctive hood provided a glimpse at much more carbon!
This GT-R was nothing just like the drag automotive however a particularly well-executed road machine boasting four-digit horsepower. Seeing a Japanese automotive approached with distinctly American aptitude was refreshing.
Then got here an actual shock…
It’s nice to see increasingly fans wanting again on historical past and studying, understanding, and experimenting with lesser-known Eighties JDM fashions like this R30 Nissan Skyline.
Are you prepared for some Honda motion?
I actually appreciated this EK Civic because it mixed a delicate Japanese taste with the straightforward physique execution, useful stance, and Volk Racing CE28Ns hiding Limitless calipers.
Below the hood, it was something however typical, sporting a B-series engine paired with a wholesome dose of compelled induction.
This construct would rank amongst my prime picks on the 2024 Anime Matsuri, an ideal mix of well-chosen components and a wholesome urge for food for energy.
Subsequent to it, this EF had a down-to-earth strategy with easy aesthetics and aggressive reducing. These clear tail lights and large wheels trace again to a selected time in Civic tradition.
Recaros at all times get a giant thumbs-up from me!
I noticed this Camry on the present final yr, however I appreciated it much more this time because the proprietor shared the in depth work that’s gone into it.
From the graceful customized widening entrance and rear to a TRD supercharger setup that will get the 2GR-FE engine transferring, that is, surely, the cleanest Camry construct I’ve ever come throughout.
This Lexus IS 300 on TE37s caught my eye a number of instances over the weekend, and for apparent causes – it’s powerful!
And this IS wagon, generally known as the Altezza Gita in Japan, dumped to the bottom on air suspension, seemed wonderful.
Representing Nissan was a wide-body Nissan Z33 that seemed able to hit the drift observe. The US has seen an increase in Zs constructed for drifting, and it’s began to rub off on Japan. It’s all about affordability; these are most likely the most affordable RWD chassis to get into now.
I’m positive Ichishima-san at Spoon would recognize this EK9 Honda Civic Kind R.
The Volk Racing SE37s actually did it for me! That is one among my favourite JDM wheels from again within the day, however it’s now sadly discontinued. What do you consider them? Am I the one one which likes the SE37?
This Honda S2000 exuded a time assault vibe with its aggressive entrance diffuser, aero fenders, vented hood, and GT wing. I first noticed it with the hood down, however the proprietor graciously opened it to disclose a surprising supercharger setup.
Due to the 25-year importation rule, extra JDM vehicles flood into the US each month, fueling a rising appreciation for Japanese automotive tradition.
That, in fact, goes for non-Japanese stuff, too.
Should you thought I used to be finished with Civics, assume once more. This EK Coupe boldly contrasted black paint with yellow accents.
This Okay-swapped hatch, constructed for circuit racing, featured severe suspension work, a stripped inside, and an ATL gas cell the place the passenger seat as soon as resided.
It’s wild to see how the Civic has developed through the years. Seeing an EK9 subsequent to the brand new FL5 Kind R made me ponder why vehicles maintain getting bigger!
With that, although, I’ll wrap up my 2024 Anime Matsuri protection. I’m excited to see what the lineup will appear like subsequent yr as this unimaginable conference continues to develop.
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Instagram: dino_dalle_carbonare
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