Wow. Such Drift. Just kidding; I’ll do my best to maintain decent grammar. Sekinei attended the Lowbrain drift event last weekend, mainly to drive in it, but he also was able to snap a few pictures between sessions. This Shibadog Works S13 coupe is definitely worth a closer look.
The owner, Okada-san, who by day works at Body Shop Craft, has done a great job in maintaining the period correct look of the car. Choosing parts that accommodate a style similar to cars seen in Japan the 90′s.
Cheers.
Super GT released this cool promotional video a few weeks ago for the upcoming 2014 season. It highlights the two brand new cars that will be competing in the new year; the Lexus LF-CC, and the NSX Concept GT. I’m excited to see how they fair as the introduction to a new chassis in any racing series is always a gamble the first year out. It also highlights the revamped Nissan GT-R GT500; which appears to have some pretty interesting aero.
The new NSX Concept of course will be replacing the HSV-001, which we all have grown to love, but unfortunately must go. The HSV, based off of Honda’s aborted front engine NSX prototype, is not actually a production car. Only through a series of loopholes was it allowed to compete in Super GT in the first place. Now that Honda has revamped the new NSX design, the GT version will take the place of the HSV.
It was also announced recently that the event that was planned for Korea in July has been cancelled. Both Super GT and the hosting parties agreed it would be best to hold it beginning in 2015. The event in Korea will be a great promotional event for the Korea tire manufacturer Hankook; one of 5 available in the series.
The 10th season of Super GT kicks off April 6th at Okayama Circuit. While the GT300 grid will remain relatively unchanged, it will be exciting to see the how the new GT500 entrants fair.
I’ll do my best to provide Super GT updates as the season progresses throughout 2014, although, I don’t think I’ll be able to attend as many as I did last year. Cheers!
Today marks the final day of 2013, and with it fades another year. Another 12 months, another 52 weeks, another 365 days. Each hour leaving it’s mark, and seemingly departing us as soon as it arrives. As I recollect on the last chapter of my life, it’s no wonder why it went by so fast. I traveled nearly 50,000 total miles last year, across three countries, attended several dozen events, and met possibly hundreds of new people I now call friends. I’ve nurtured past friendships, expanded on them, and unfortunately had to dissolve others. The international community of motor sport, and automotive enthusiasts has grown, and with it we too have grown. NDF has seen an increase in supporters unlike any other year. Back in 2010, I never intended for this site to become what it is now. It started out as something as simple as a means of sharing my experiences in Japan, a country that I’ve come to love, to those like minded addicts who don’t necessarily have the means of doing the same. Over the years however, it began to change into something more. A network of sorts.
It started from a love of sharing, cultivated by the individuals behind the cars, and it grew…and it continues to grow.
I can’t imagine what my life would be like without it now. A simple media website, has grown to become a medium that now defines a large part of who I am. The effort I put into the site is equivalent to a full time job; possibly more. Except, instead of getting a paycheck at the end of the week, I’m compensated in a unique satisfaction. Seeing the fans enjoy what’s posted, or getting positive feedback on my photography (which needs work I know), gaining new opportunities, helping people learn about new builds, or experience life in Japan, meeting new people. All these things, in a sense, are worth more than money to me.
Keeping a website devoted purely to the Japanese automotive lifestyle current, while not living in Japan is a tough gig. Trust me. It’s a challenge, but it’s a rewarding one. This isn’t a fly by night, cropped watermark, media thieving Facebook page. I work hard to provide original media at no cost to anyone wanting to view it. That’s a testament to all the other websites that put in the time, energy, and money to bring original content to the world as well. In this world of digital media that we play in, creative commons are getting difficult to protect. All this re-posting and theft of media is forcing many original creators offline. It’s very discouraging seeing a photo of yours minus your watermark, with no credit given, used by other entities who are promoting their products. But whatever, I’m not in this for the money, I’m not in this for any sort of recognition or fame. In fact, very few people even know who I am (笑).
I’ve managed to grow a network of some of the most unique, kind-hearted, creative, smart, talented individuals in existence. In the US, Japan, Canada, Australia, Europe, there are these people, that I’m truly privileged to have met and for most, to call friends.
Everyone in NORUSH – Allan, Yuta (someone who has been a constant reminder for me to worry more about what I’m doing and less about others.), Dom, Kodi, Justin, Teddy, Kam, B-Love, Jay, Franklin, and Hung; a group of people who have over the past year inspired and pushed me to no end; people who I can easily call family. The friends I see on a regular basis; Kristian and Dilly at SP, Amir, Kenny, Jake at Options, Charlie, Joey of The Chronicles, and many more. Vincent, Noogz, Brilau, Cali of Dreamroom, Ryan, Mark, Will, Sully and everyone else residing North of us. Charles at Import Tuner who gave me my first opportunity to be published; something that was a personal goal of mine that I never thought I’d realize so soon. Everyone I’ve interacted with as a result of NDF existing has provided me with great experiences. All the people whose cars I was privileged to photograph.
In Japan, my great friend Sekinei, who not only contributes to the site on a regular basis, and acts as the Eastern arm of NDF, but truly gives me a second home while in Japan. A friend that has opened the door to so many other relationships I will be forever in debt to. Takashi, an old friend who was a big support and encouragement in the site’s early stages. Harada, Kume, Nao of Garage Fun, Amisaki, Pon, Totsuka, Tayama, Nojima, Yuuji, Aku, Yui and all the other individuals in the Japanese Z community that have showed so much support.
Masuhara, KT, and Mr. Asso of Battle Evome, who have welcomed the site’s participation in the event with open arms; a relationship that means so much to me. Along with all the drivers who serve as inspiration in my own racing ventures.
People like Isao Mizota of Revolfe S.A. – a figure I will always look up to and a relationship I will never take for granted. Yukimitsu of Car Shop Glow , Sakamoto from Art Engine, Masahiro at Advance Flat Out, Matt Kingery and Park Baker of Constant Fun and HighTopFade respectively, along with Yoshi (NRT Buds!). Three incredibly great people I’m happy to call friends. Satoh at Satoh Engines, Kei of Abflug, a company who is always pushing boundaries of style, Tomo at Repzen, Kiyotaka and Tamon Shoji at Tamon Designs, Ikegaya-san at Utilitas, and Yuji-san at B-Wave. Fukuyasu of Kanagawa street drift fame, and all around great kid, all inspire and push me to improve in many ways. Scott and the great support at Koyorad. Akira Nakai, Yoko Kubo, Nojima, Shinji, Seike of Idlers, Alex at Circuit Soul, Akira, Shimizu, Motomasu, Gary and all others involved with RWB or drivers of RWB Porsches. A concept that has grown more than any one could have possibly imagined.
There are dozens of people I missed, but that doesn’t mean they are any less important to me. Actually I’m going to feel pretty bad for forgetting to mention people. I actually dislike making lists like this, as any good friendship is on par with another; I felt it appropriate to share my gratitude though. I wouldn’t have experienced anything with any of these people if it weren’t for NDF; and that is payment enough for me. There is one thing that all these people have in common, and that is they do what they do because it’s a passion of theirs. Not for money, not for fame. With that said, even if NDF stopped growing, I’d be happy. Any expansion in viewers was due to everyone reading this now. I have all of you to thank for making it what it is today; nothing has ever been advertised or paid for. It’s all word of mouth and social media. I’m constantly blown away when I read people posting comments or receiving messages and emails saying that this is the “best blog”, or “awesome pictures, keep it up”. It really means a lot to me and is extremely encouraging. There are so many other great outlets, I feel humbled to even be categorized in with them.
I’m not really sure why I’m writing this. Maybe to shed some light on my intentions, be there any at all. Maybe to just show my appreciation for everything thus far. I’m a pretty closed off person, and writing something like this is actually difficult for me believe it or not. This is probably the longest post I’ve ever written on this blog (this is post #501 btw). The more I talk about how things affect me personally, the more vulnerable I am for any sort of backlash from it. It’s unfortunate that sometimes people can abuse what’s put online. That’s probably why I don’t write much of my experiences here on the site; maybe I can change that in 2014. I think viewers enjoy reading about personal experience.
If anything the website has helped me stay busy and pursue new ways of creating. Unlike other sites with teams of photographers and writers, I’d like to think as an individual I’m doing pretty good; then again, I have the help of a very gifted friend. And together, I think we can achieve much more. We can continue to bring people together over a common lifestyle.
The lifestyle of late nights and early mornings, empty bank accounts and new car parts, the creation of ideas, expansion of friends, accomplishment of goals, the rush of new experience, the breaking of limits, the achievement of dreams, the laughs, and the love.
The lifestyle of motor sport.
Thank you for a wonderful year, and I wish you all the best in 2014.
Happy New Year.
みんな、ありがとうございました。 明けましておめでとうございます! 今年もよろしくおねがいします。
- Sean // Narita Dog Fight
I know that everyone is gearing up for Tokyo Auto Salon in the coming weeks, and while I can’t say I’m not excited about it, there is an event that I’m looking forward to even more than TAS; HKS Premium Day.
We’ll have full coverage of Tokyo Auto Salon on the site, but while you’re basking in the finest Japan has to offer, we’ll be prepping our gear and packing our bags to bring you the best coverage from Fuji on the 26th. With both the Option Super Lap, and the HKS Hiper Challenge, there will plenty of motor sports to look forward to.
Who knows, maybe we’ll take a break from the Speedway and wander over to the lot where HKS is holding their Customized Car Carnival as well. Either way, between TAS, HKS Premium Day, Battle Evome, and a whole bunch of other features, January is going to be a great month for Japanese Motor Sport.
Stay tuned!
It’s usually about this time in January when the internet is flooded with content from Tokyo Auto Salon. For good reason; it’s one of the most look forward to events of the year for any automotive enthusiast. Just earlier today, while outside the skies were a bright blue, the inside halls of Makuhari Messe were opened for the media to capture the thousands of cars, new product lineups, and models on display for the weekend.
We’ll have a couple parts to this series, so let’s not waste anymore time and get right to it…starting with this fully carbon GTR from Overtake.
Overtake, a fairly new company, focusing on carbon GTR parts. It seems like this year they have teamed up with RAYS, as they had a couple of their cars in the large booth.
Both which were sporting RAYS new TE37 Ultra, available in 20″ sizes.
As seen here along side their other new offering, the ZE40 – both great looking wheels. Just what you’d expect from Volk.
The RE Amemiya booth was overrun by rotary powered machines as usual. The Hurricane FD being the focal point of the display.
On the other end the Pan Speed RX8 – another time attack favorite.
Mazda, no stranger to road racing, had on display their new entrant to the Grand-Am Rolex series.
Some rather dramatic lighting!
As well as this cute little ST5 classed Taikyu racer. This thing would be a blast on the touge.
Bulletproof Automotive had their signature FRS shipped out for display with the RAYS group as well. This build has garned worldwide attention, and was a focal point for many.
Advan had a really nice display on hand featuring many of their popular designs. I’ve always loved the Advan GT…
Hi Japan. It’s nice to see you again.
Rocky Auto had on display a good amount of classics, including this Kenmeri on TE37-V’s.
Star Road had on display their signature yellow S30 rebuild on their new Glow Star wheels, produced by WORK. A new partnership that has generated some interesting designs geared towards older cars.
They also had this immaculate restoration on display next to the yellow S30.
WORK had their original lineup of 15″ offerings next to the new Glow Stars as well.
C-West was showing off their new FRS/BRZ aero with the help of a couple girlies.
We posted this Essex/Kansai Service drift Hiace on Instagram yesterday and it got some good feedback. They really went all out this year, building a fully drift prepped van.
With the help of BRIDE and Enkei, Essex really knocked this one out.
They had monitors displaying the van actually drifting at an exhibition. You can also see it at the Essex home page.
Fujio-san brought out his Bold World D1 R34 out for display. The graphics that R-Y-O did on this car are amazing.
At WORK’s main booth, they had their full lineup on display; including their new Emotion D9R. Very good looking wheel.
D-Friends URAS kitted 34 sedan.
I’m a sucker for any R34 sedan with the URAS GT kit on it…literally, it’s like the end all for me. This application is no exception. I like the little URAS puppy on the dashboard.
Well, I’ll get back to editing some more pictures to post. I’ll leave off for part 1 here, but check back shortly for more from the halls of Chiba.
Head over to the wallpaper section to get this week’s hi-res featuring the RWB Porsche ‘Phoenix’. This car has such presence that it looks like if it wasn’t strapped down, it would literally power itself off into the night to wreak havoc in Tokyo with it’s fully built Promodet engine.
Yusuke Nojima. A man known for many things; his large part in Rauh-Welt, a love for Saber Tiger and Metal in general…but most of all, known for being a master of the 86. I had initially met Noji at the Circuit Soul grand opening in Vancouver when he came out with Nakai and Yoko for the Matsuri. I remember listening to him wide eyed on that chilly Canadian night revel tales of him and Nakai taking to the touge in their Corollas and leaving no opponent unbeaten. Later that year, I ran into him again at Idlers at Motegi, as he was in the garage next to ours. Most recently though, through a mutual friend Tomo of Repzen G.K., we were invited out to his shop to check out his latest build.
When you envision a tuning shop in Japan, it’s probably not common for one to imagine the middle of the countryside. You’d be surprised then, that buried in the rural prefecture of Ibaraki, lies one of the most famous 86 builders in Japan.
When we arrived late morning, the sun had just established it’s position above the shop’s roof. I welcomed it as it had been pretty cold that week.
The new car in question, was still in the garage, so while I waited for Noji to position it out on the drive a little better, I meandered around his grounds.
The area was literally a parking lot of Corollas – an Initial D fanboy’s dream per say. I took comfort in knowing that, although some were in rough shape, that all at one point or another were driven at their limits, each machine getting put to use.
After we had pushed the new build into the makeshift driveway, I was able to get a few pictures of it. He mainly wanted some before shots to compare to the finished version. You can clearly see that he had his work cut out for him. You have to keep in mind though, these cars are reaching in upwards of 30 years old; to restore them is no easy task.
The hatch wing had fallen off so Noji taped it up hahaha
Underneath the hood, the 4AGE sat in patience, awaiting a complete car that it could power to victory in whatever application it was put to.
While he conducted some business regarding another 86, we took a walk around the property.
Yoshi, Park, Matt, and Erika enjoying the countryside.
彼が外人客の接待にあたっている! Matt is in charge of entertaining foreigners…which in my case was just me because all three of them live here.
Real Of The World in all her glory. This car should probably be credited with creating a lot of the buzz around Nojireal.
It’s aggressive stature, it’s menacing matte looks, and a 210+ hp 4AGE that sounds just as you’d imagine it make this car hard to forget. It’s no wonder it serves as the flagship of Nojireal.
Raise Your Flag. This is the 86 he drove at Idlers this last Summer, looking like it really hasn’t done much since then.
Actually, for reference here is a picture I took of it last year at Twin Ring…looking, well, much cleaner than it is now.
The engine at it’s core still looking as fresh as ever though – and sounds just as amazing as when it was at Motegi.
The garage, which doubles as a paint booth, has seen some amazing cars in it’s history.
There’s no doubt that what he is working on now, and what he will work on in the future, will come out just as amazing as his past builds. I’ll be sure to keep updated on the status of this build, as it should be nearing completion now, and hopefully be back to take pictures of the final result.
In Noji’s garage he has a little hidden room where he houses his guitars and what not; a little ‘man-cave’ if you will. Sometime in the afternoon we retreated in there to take a break and have a canned coffee. It’s amazing how some of my greatest memories don’t involve cars at all, but simply sitting in a room together with like minded individuals, chatting about whatever comes to mind. We need to remember that these cars are a result of a specific person; something more than just a machine. More or less an extension of personality.
Huge thank you to Nojima-san for having us out, Tomo for arranging everything, and Sekinei for driving us out here.
Last weekend marked the date for RWB’s annual meet in Tokyo. Roppongi Hills; an urban district in Minato known for it’s upper class quality of life played host to the event. The meet was in the lot of Hard Rock Cafe, a very fitting place actually. The site of Phoenix being towed through the city streets is a pretty good reminder that these cars are built for one purpose in mind…
It’s pretty crazy to see them in such an urban setting. While some owners drive there’s daily, there’s no doubt that some are reserved solely for the track.
I Amsterdam looking much cleaner than last time I saw it at Motegi, sitting here next to Cynthia…
…who was looking just as beautiful.
There were many quite a few Porsches that came and went, many I haven’t seen before; like this one above. I like the silver with red accents.
The duckbill is a great alternative to the standard RWB wing.
Motomasu-san was in attendance in his beautiful blue Porsche.
You might remember this from our Winter Cafe coverage.
Next to him was the other ‘Mujer’ RWB in a pretty merlot color.
Spearmint Rhino.
One of my all time favorite builds from RWB Republic is Masterpiece. Such a hard color way.
This pair of bright Orange builds definitely caught the eyes of many. Cool to see two different generations themed in the same color way.
964 Convertible all by it’s lonesome…
Good turnout!
Of course there are many talented people behind RWB, but none of this would be in existence if it wasn’t for one man himself; Nakai-san. Hope you enjoyed a look into the many different RWB builds.
Thanks to Sekinei for the great shots.
Fuji’s drift course typically has a wide variety of course at any given event. On this day though, this particular 86 caught my eye. There are a few things about it that appeal to me. One being the ‘Geocities’ URL on the skirt…if you know Japan, this should be amusing to you.
Good looking Corolla.
I apologize for the lack of updates recently, I’ve been traveling around quite a bit and haven’t really had a chance to sit down and check in. I’d like to say the new year is off to a good start and that NDF will be very busy this year; which really just means more great content for you guys, and the chance to get some really cool stuff as well. I am in Japan at the moment and am swamped with work. I should have some time tomorrow to sit down and sort through things though.
I grabbed the picture above at Fuji Speedway yesterday during Option’s Super Lap battle. The Arvou built, HKS supercharged S2000 was showcasing some impressive lap times, and looked great doing it during it’s two outings. If this picture isn’t proof enough, check back soon because I guarantee you that you will not find better coverage of this event elsewhere. I can’t reveal too much until the articles come out, but I can say with three photographers covering all of Fuji for 8 hours the amount of media to sort through is overwhelming. I must say though, I had a blast doing it; honestly I think that’s what makes the difference. It’s more than a job to me.
As always, thank you for your patience and support.
At the Team Yamada drift event at Mobara Circuit this past weekend, the old D1 Pro Shop Wave JZX100 made an appearance and put in a couple practice runs.
It was quick to lose it’s front half lip after running the front end off one of the corners.
Good to see this car still putting in some track time. Especially under the Out Run flag.
I will be stopping by B-Wave sometime this week, stay tuned for some big news soon ~
The brisk grounds of Tsukuba played host to the second round of Battle Evome this morning, and as quickly as it came, the battle has ended. While not all contenders came out unscathed, a good amount came up on personal bests or some very fast times. This is quite the contrary to what the first round resulted (thanks be to warmer track temps). I think I’ll take a different approach to covering Evome this year; an approach I think you will all enjoy.
Stay tuned for in depth look at the cars that make up the grassroots time attack scene in Japan.
Caught this really cool R32 sedan at Mobara a week or so ago at the Team Yamada event. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t surprised that it was owned and driven by a girl. There’s always a good amount of female drifters at open events at Mobara, and if that wasn’t enough, the amount of plush dolls on the inside gave it away.
As I walked through the paddock area and spotted this car, the license plate is actually what caught my eye first. I think I might always be on the lookout for Narita plates, but I don’t see them often at events.
The 33 drift spares in the rear gave it just the right look; stylistically, Japan grassroots drift in every way.
The wing is great as well (even though I admit I have no idea what wing it is). That’s the owner on the right…I probably should have asked her.
She can throw it down too.
I love how close the cars get the pylon at the pit entrance.
All ready to head out; rear bumper back on, and the other two matching mesh wheels in place of the 33′s.
Effortless in style – hope to see this car around again.
I think I was on my way to meet up with friends to grab lunch or something when I spotted this girl playing with some kids behind an 86. This is right in front of the cafe at Fuji Speedway, if you’ve ever been. I wanted to grab a couple candid shots of her and the kids because, well, it’s just what I enjoy I guess. The reason I got into photography was for the love of street candids (but that’s a whole other story). It wasn’t until after I looked around a bit that I noticed that the 86 they were behind was actually incredibly cool looking.
Sitting not too low, but at the right height for this car I think, on a set of SSR SP1. The lambo doors…I enjoyed them.
Hiding behind the 19″ SSR’s were a massive set of Brembo brakes.
The SARD wing is still one of my favorite 86 wings to date; right behind the Trial wing.
Enjoy ~
Everyone wants a flame, nobody wants to get burnt.
A statement that cries out to the majority. Sacrifice, defeat, disappointment; bitter vices that coincide with the greatest of victories. Vices that the average will reluctantly turn from, fearful of the unknown. Well, these contenders are not your average. These are the advocates of time. These are the tested, the determined, the resolute, the masters. They are the scorched.
Burnt by the flame of conquest. A crusade of self-liberation, of constant improvement. Experts of their craft, aces of the clock. Nothing matters but time. Nothing.
The battlegrounds: TC2000. The standard; a benchmark. A milieu that has set the criteria of all that is attack. Relentless, callous, untouched by mercy. A fair locale to all.
This is not for the weak of heart. This is not a mere sport. This will push you beyond your limits of comfort. It will grasp you from the depths of your soul and it will not let you go until you have reached your threshold. This is the decisive, the ultimate. This is where legends are created.
This is Battle Evome.
An arena where the heat of the battle is just as sweet as the victory.
0, 1 t. Moty’s FD. 1050 Kilograms, 550 horsepower. Top tier. 2014 aero updates immense.
T’s Factory AE86. Driver: Suwa Tomoki. 810 kilograms, 200 horsepower. 2014 updates heavy.
江島清貴; pilot of the TFR FD. Kiyo; veteran of TC2000. 1100 kilograms, 520 horsepower. Mild 2014 updates.
Kuni of Wood Village fame. First S30 to break under 1 minute mark TC2000. 1060 kilograms, just shy of 370 horsepower. You’d be hard pressed to find an enthusiast who knows not of this car.
ﾄﾄまる – CT9A. Friend of KD. The baddest EVO on circuit. Weight/Power unknown.
Auto Gallery Yokohama - 32 GTR. Spring Road. Not the Fuji build that you typically think of when you imagine the AGY GTR. Tsukuba breed. 57 runner.
Unfamiliar in machine, legend in person. Super Now. ｽｰﾊﾟｰ今 997 GT3RS.
きゅうちゃん. Yuzi EVO CT9A. Shakedown event. Lap times noncompetitive.
動くｼｹｲﾝ. TFH EVO 6.5 – a veteran. Street Driven. 1250 kilograms, 500 horsepower. 2014 updates low.
Craft Company FD3S. Redtree Rems collaborative. Kitajo of CC piloted.
Wild Heart FD3S. Untamed. Tommy – 2014 newcomer.
Iwata-san. Master of FF. Title holder. A king in his own right. 695 kilograms, 240 horsepower. Friend of NDF. 2014 updates immense.
GH-1117. Ti-Racing, SK Exige. A queen amongst kings. 860 kilograms, 330 horespower.
Yukimitsu Hara. Car Shop Glow FD3S. 2014 upgrades ongoing. Seen here at Zest, Saitama. Resting. Lying in wait. 1100 kilograms, power tbd.
A sample of those who fight. An illustration of what’s to come. Round 2 of Battle Evome; a Narita Dog Fight exclusive look – coming soon.
The 2014 season of time attack is upon us. The contenders are prepared. Are you ready?
Battle Evome, and time attack events in general, are so unique in the sense that each participant has their own story; their own background. Where they come from, how they got into motor sport, things that pushed them to attack. They each have their own setups, their idea of what works best with their driving style, and maybe most intriguing – the way they style their cars. The personality of each comes out in what they pilot, and it’s a large part of what makes us desire to see more.
We all want to express ourselves, some more than others, some for the wrong reasons. The beautiful thing about Japanese motor sport is that, from what I’ve seen (and I’d like to think I have a pretty good perspective), is that their is no barrier between self expression and creation. There’s a reason we all draw so much from Japan.
You can see this uniqueness in Ejima Kiyotaka-san’s (江島清貴) TFR FD3S.
There’s been quite a few changes put into this car since last year, namely the front end aero. The newly designed front end aero being one of the bigger visual differences. Not as extensive as some that we’ve seen, but it has a very distinct shape that seems to flow, and sharply cut through the air.
A view from the front of how the canards are double stacked with the splitter. The fan is placed in front of the radiator and used for when the car is warming up before runs.
I’d like to say that the design is from Sight Hound, but I never got a chance to ask Kiyotaka as I didn’t want to disturb him before his runs. Unfortunately, after his second session out he shunted the car in the wall and spent the rest of the morning working on the front end – I absolutely didn’t want to bother him after that hahaha
A closer look at the engine bay and chassis bracing. Like many time attack built cars, the bracing from the roll cage runs through the firewall to secure to the shock towers and frame. I really like how the tower bar is integrated into the setup as well.
The driver and owner, seen here doing some final checks around the car. It’s hard to describe in words, but if you could witness his movements, the way he acts, even something as simple as his smile, it’s obvious that he built this car. Kiyotaka always puts his car down as the ‘TFR☆向島R’ on the Evome time sheets. 向島, pronounced Mukojima in English, is an island in a group of sub-tropical islands called the Ogasawara Islands south of Mainland Japan. The majority of the islands are uninhabited, and while I can’t say that I know of any ties to the driver and these islands, you can almost get a sense of minimalism from this that he puts into the car. Is there a connection? Possibly, but it’s all part of that initial connection and uniqueness I spoke of in the opening paragraph. It draws us in, makes us want to know more.
Last walk through and aero check. One more moment of solemness before the pressure of attack sets in.
From the pits to the circuit. The idle chit chat of friends fading into the violent tones of the titanium exhaust and the fully built rotary as it propels itself around TC2000.
The morning sun just now breaching the horizon to shine onto the track, warming it from the nights freezing temperatures.
The suspension and aero adapting the car to each of the corners as Kiyotaka pushes the barrier.
Flying down the back straight towards the final turn, you can see how the car flows in profile as an extension of Kiyotaka.
But as all great attack drivers sometimes do, he pushed too hard, and due to a massive lock up heading into the final hairpin, the car was put into the barrier. Luckily it wasn’t too bad, but the front end sustained enough damage to end the day.
Still, a 56.398 hot lap was managed before the accident with an average speed of 130.058 km/h. Which just tipped him into his personal best from a 56.580 which he achieved last year at Evome. I know, from experience, it doesn’t matter how much you beat your PR by; it’s still a good feeling, and I hope he felt the same. Although, I have a feeling this car is capable of breaking into the 55′s in it’s current form.
Breaking down for the day, the extra set of forged Advan RZ-DF’s wrapped in the necessary A050′s are put away for now. Awaiting the next time they set down onto Tsukuba…
…awaiting the next time they can carry Kiyotaka to another victory, another way to express his desire, another day to become the fastest he can be, in whatever form he desires.
Last weekend at Mobara, the drift team Perfect Style made a pretty solid appearance for the open event. I was pretty excited to see such a solid turn out, it really speaks to the comradery of the Japanese. If you’re unfamiliar with Perfect Style, it’s actually a body shop in the small town of Mitaka, Tokyo (just West of Shinjuku) owned by Mr. Yuichi. Let’s check out some of the cars starting with this pair of 15′s.
This pink S15 was definitely one of the cleanest ones of the group, although I didn’t see it on track today which could explain the good appearance. The XD-9′s look pretty good on the S15 body.
This green S15 on another set of Works was rocking Circuit Soul – very cool to see CS repped on track.
This kouki S14 had some very quick entries. When it started raining everyone, including him, starting going off track at every turn. It was actually pretty entertaining to watch – I would imagine quite frustrating for the drivers though.
Another S15, this time in bright yellow. Looks like Grenades and some spare 33′s.
Another kouki on track. Earlier in the morning, the two 14′s were running tandem – very skilled.
The only zenki I saw in the group. It was parked next to the Soarer, of which I failed to get a picture of for some reason….which probably means I was called away somewhere and forgot.
Anyway, I thought it was pretty cool to see a whole group together at one event. I’m not sure that I’ve ever seen that to this extent.
Cheers!
The long lasting relationship we build with our cars is a testament to the love of what we do. It becomes more than just a machine, a tool to get from point a to point b. We have our ups and downs, it develops a personality; or rather, we attach a personality to it. Probably just an extension of our own with a little twist. We enjoy seeing it go through phases, as we test new parts, and build it to our own specification. You become a team as others begin to associate you with your car. This feeling we get, a sort of satisfaction of having something become a part of us…can you imagine what it would be like if you owned the car for 20, 30 years? What if that car was nearing 40 years in age? 40 years of moments, half a life time of memories shared. With this in mind, a car, may not seem so lifeless after all.
This same case applies to Kuni-san’s infamous Wood Village S30. A Fairlady Z that is reaching it’s 40th birthday. A car that he has been building for just about 10 years now, with much of that time being spent behind the wheel, on circuit.
In that time though, the car has seen many changes. I wouldn’t be wrong in saying that the majority of people would be surprised to see such a nostalgic chassis used as a time attack machine. Keep in mind though, while it may not be the most modern, the S30 has an immense history in motor sport. Aside from that, this is not your ordinary Z car…
The widened arches, along with the huge, one-off custom FRP air dam on the front end make up a good amount of updated aero on the car. The large gt wing taking care of stability of the rear end.
Now, with a car this old, the chassis itself is probably a little tired. Kuni took care of this obstacle by welding in a gusseted 23-point roll cage which offers both safety and extreme rigidity for the older chassis. At the same time all the heavy glass was replaced by 3mm acrylic to make up for some of the added weight.
Surprised? The heart of the S30 has always been the L-Series engine. In it’s original form, this 2.8 liter power plant has powered the Z car to many victories in the past. Attack, however, is a bit different. Knowing that he’d need to increase power to be competitive the L-series is far from it’s original form. Although, still N/A (very traditional in keeping it so), the engine now sings to the tune of 337 ps. No longer the 2.8 liter it started as, the displacement has been increased to 3.2 liters with updated carbs and fuel delivery system.
The updated engine is mated to a newly installed HKS 6-speed dog box transmission. While the gears are pounded through a OS Giken triple disc clutch assembly and a R200 differential puts the power to the axles.
Sendai Hi-Land Raceway tribute to Tohoku decal (Revival Tohoku!).
This car, and it’s owner, are no stranger to TC2000. Made famous on the asphalt of Tsukuba, you’d be hard pressed to find an enthusiast who doesn’t know of this car. This day though, yielded mundane results for a duo whose best at TC200 was clocked at 59.674. A time in fact, that marks the first, and the fastest L-series powered car around the course. With a best of 1’00.378 for the day, he was able to get close to sub one minute, but unfortunately not reach it. You can be sure he will achieve it again though, sooner rather than later.
Breaking hard into turn one, any doubt this car can perform is thrown out the window. As the N/A engine screams under strain you realize that this car was built for one reason, and one reason only.
The turns of Tsukuba handled by a custom set of ZEAL dampers mated to 10k and 8k springs respectively. A Nismo 23mm stabilizer bar is used up front, while the rear is handled by a custom setup. The big brake kit up front, originally meant for a FC3S, handles the majority of the stopping power as the Advan A050′s tirelessly maintain grip.
Polished black, three piece SSR SP1′s give both a stunning visual, and the lightweight strength needed for concurring Tsukuba.
I’m sure we’d all like to have a car in which we can enjoy such a long lasting relationship with. I’ve personally owned my own car for 14 years now, and I can understand that relationship now, but what will it be like 20 years from now? There is no way to tell, but I can tell you this though; it doesn’t matter what car you drive. You make it what you want. I’ve had days where there is nothing more I wanted to do than to sell it, and I’m glad I didn’t…I can imagine Kuni-san has had some of those same days – as have many of you.
It’s safe to say we’ll be seeing more of Kuni-san and his circuit partner in the coming years. I can’t wait to see what they have in store next.
Ride along on one of his sub-one minute laps ~
Cruised by TC1000 to watch an open track event while we enjoyed a couple Emerald Mountain Blend’s for a few minutes and spotted these two FC’s. Pretty simple looking, but as you know simple is best.
Really liked this red one on TE’s. Interior had a matching set of red Brides, and a full cage. Super great mismatched Ganadors just like my friend Franklin’s Z32…must be a red car thing.
In the Hyogo prefecture just Northwest of Osaka, is an industrial city named Amagasaki. A mid sized city known for it’s manufacturing contributions to the Hanshin Industrial Region, and funny enough, the home to Formula 1 driver Kamui Kobayashi. It’s also the location of a tuning shop that’s been around a lot longer than most people think. Craft Company Planning, no stranger to the circuit, has been gaining much more exposure recently outside of Japan. Their iconic CC logo working it’s way into the hearts of many FD fans worldwide; and a lot of it has to do with Kitajo-san’s ongoing project of attack – the CCFD3S2014.
Kitajo has not only been tuning cars for years, but he’s been driving them as well. The years spent on tracks like Tsukuba, Central, Okayama, Suzuka, Sendai have all given him an accumulated experience that not many have. It’s also the reason he is one of the quickest FD’s in attack. Fourth actually, with a fastest time of 57.077 (nearly 57 flat) at TC2000, it puts him just under the Moty’s , TFR, and Doraemon FD’s, but doing so in a very tight margin. I love the look of the carbon in the sunlight in this picture – Garage Kagotani pieces.
There are many things that make the cars at Battle Evome stand out, but of course the concentration lies on the aero packages that get updated continuously. The uniqueness of each approach defines the aesthetics of the car in a way nothing else can. The Craft Company FD, in this years configuration (2013 as well), wears the TCP Magic full G-Face body kit; one of the most unique kits for the FD. The focal point of course being the incredibly beautiful front fenders – somehow managing to be both aggressive and subtle at the same time.
The carbon doors creating the perfect flow of carbon throughout the body. TE37SL’s in the rear paired with Advan RGIII’s make for a great stagger and match the car perfectly.
The 57 seconds spent on Tsukuba is a testament to more than just good looks though, and the fully built rotary sitting underneath the bonnet has much to do with that. As we all know though, not one part of the car can bring success. The entire build has to be taken into consideration and paired with parts that will compliment one another to achieve your end result. While other FD’s may be gunning for maximum power with huge T88′s, the CC FD may be taking a different approach more suitable for the car and driver combination.
The full cage, the massive gussets throughout the chassis, and a frame that has been stripped of all things unnecessary and fully stitch welded for maximum rigidity. All part of this combination that makes the car stand out among the competition, and more importantly perform on track.
A combination that he obviously got right…
…because it’s proven where it matters.
As the fates would have it however, he was not able to break any personal records on this day. Despite the track conditions being near perfect, he was able to muster ‘just’ a 57.886 – nearly a second off pace of his best. This was on his 10th lap of 16 completed – I would imagine only a handful being full on hot laps.
Although not able to best himself today, we know that Masaki Kitajo will be back. Another chilling morning drive out of Kobe headed East. Passing Suzuka, winding through Nagoya, headed through the coastline of Shizuoka, maybe stopping for a coffee on the breathtaking outskirts of Fuji, blasting by the metropolis of Tokyo, with a final destination in Ibaraki. Arriving at Tsukuba just as the sun’s first light reveals itself on the horizon. Once again to take on the keeper of time; TC2000. Once again to pit himself against the greatest opponent he’ll ever know. Himself.
And remember to stretch before your attack…(/^▽^)/
