Final 12 months was my first go to to the large Anime Matsuri occasion within the coronary heart of Houston, Texas. The attract of searching out automobiles 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 technology, I grew up watching over-dubbed Japanese anime on Italian TV, I’m nowhere near an anime otaku (nerd). I’m, nonetheless, a licensed automotive otaku, and whereas I felt like a bit fish out of the water on the 2023 Anime Matsuri this 12 months, I started to seek out my groove.
It’s in all probability due to the numerous enhancements within the automotive phase this 12 months. The native Aston Martin distributor returned, displaying beautiful fashions just like the DBX 707 – presumably my favourite SUV – and a metallic blue DB11.
However, unsurprisingly, it’s the genuine Japanese facet 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 robust partnership with TOM’s. Seeing the GT500 class Lexus LC up shut was a spotlight, particularly testing 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 grow to be fairly in style within the US partially as a result of GR Yaris not being offered right here. In actual fact, I noticed extra GR Corollas throughout my week in Texas than prior to now 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 plenty 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 seems idiot you – it drives impressively properly 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 in regards to the in style manga/anime collection?
Now, let’s dive into the JDM goodness on show this 12 months…
It was nice to see this Nissan S14 once more; an excellent instance of how easy, coherent modifications can stand the take a look at of time. The C-West aero and widened fenders paired with Takata NSX-inspired inexperienced RAYS Volk Racing TE37s work so properly. 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 a large 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 various. Virtually nothing stays from the unique automotive; the entrance is tube-framed, whereas the rear sports activities a large 9-inch diff. A Turbo 400 computerized transmission replaces the unique dual-clutch GR6. I used to be significantly 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 avenue 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 fanatics wanting again on historical past and studying, understanding, and experimenting with lesser-known Nineteen 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 refined Japanese taste with the easy physique execution, useful stance, and Volk Racing CE28Ns hiding Limitless calipers.
Below the hood, it was something however standard, 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 elements and a wholesome urge for food for energy.
Subsequent to it, this EF had a down-to-earth method with easy aesthetics and aggressive decreasing. These clear tail lights and large wheels trace again to a particular time in Civic tradition.
Recaros all the time get an enormous thumbs-up from me!
I noticed this Camry on the present final 12 months, however I appreciated it much more this time because the proprietor shared the intensive 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, unquestionably, the cleanest Camry construct I’ve ever come throughout.
This Lexus IS 300 on TE37s caught my eye a number of occasions over the weekend, and for apparent causes – it’s robust!
And this IS wagon, referred to as the Altezza Gita in Japan, dumped to the bottom on air suspension, appeared wonderful.
Representing Nissan was a wide-body Nissan Z33 that appeared able to hit the drift monitor. 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 in all probability the most affordable RWD chassis to get into now.
I’m positive Ichishima-san at Spoon would respect this EK9 Honda Civic Kind R.
The Volk Racing SE37s actually did it for me! That is one in every of 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 automobiles flood into the US each month, fueling a rising appreciation for Japanese automotive tradition.
That, in fact, goes for non-Japanese stuff, too.
When you thought I used to be finished with Civics, assume once more. This EK Coupe boldly contrasted black paint with yellow accents.
This Ok-swapped hatch, constructed for circuit racing, featured critical 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 over time. Seeing an EK9 subsequent to the brand new FL5 Kind R made me ponder why automobiles 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 12 months as this unimaginable conference continues to develop.
Dino Dalle Carbonare
Instagram: dino_dalle_carbonare
dino@speedhunters.com