Why the SR20DET Is a Better Engine for Performance Cars Than the RB26DETT
Paras
Apr 3
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Top Five Most Desirable High-Performance Japanese Cars
apanese cars have long been celebrated for their precision engineering, reliability, and thrilling performance. Whether you’re a collector or a driving enthusiast, these vehicles offer a perfect blend of style and substance. Here are the top five high-performance Japanese cars that are turning heads right now, both new and old.
1. Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)
The R34 Skyline GT-R, affectionately known as “Godzilla,” has earned its place as a true icon in the automotive world. Debuting in 1999, this beast is powered by the legendary RB26DETT—a 2.6L twin-turbo inline-six engine that offers insane tuning potential and exhilarating speed straight from the factory. But it’s not just about brute force; the R34 features an advanced ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system and active LSD, giving it unmatched handling and control, especially in tight corners or wet conditions.
What really cements the R34’s status is its massive cultural footprint. From dominating Japanese racing circuits to becoming a star in movies like Fast & Furious and countless video games, the R34 isn’t just a car—it’s a lifestyle. Despite its age, the R34 remains a dream car for many thanks to its aggressive design, raw performance, and that unmistakable exhaust note.
2. Toyota Supra (A80)
The fourth-generation Toyota Supra, particularly the twin-turbocharged A80 model, is practically folklore in the tuning world. Beneath the hood lies the now-legendary 2JZ-GTE inline-six engine, a powerplant so overbuilt and reliable that it’s become synonymous with high-horsepower builds. Tuners around the globe have pushed these engines to deliver well over 1,000 horsepower, often without breaking a sweat.
But it’s not just what’s under the hood that makes the A80 special. The car features a perfectly balanced chassis, precise steering, and a design that still turns heads nearly three decades later. Its wide stance, smooth curves, and aggressive front end give it a presence that’s hard to ignore. Whether it’s cruising the streets or tearing up the track, the Supra delivers on every front—speed, style, and street cred.
3. Mazda RX-7 (FD)
Few cars have captured the hearts of enthusiasts quite like the Mazda RX-7 FD. With its sleek silhouette and distinctive pop-up headlights, it’s arguably one of the most beautiful sports cars ever produced. But the real magic lies in its engine—the 1.3L twin-rotor Wankel rotary engine. Unlike traditional piston engines, the rotary is compact, lightweight, and capable of spinning to incredibly high RPMs, delivering a unique and thrilling driving sensation.
The RX-7’s chassis was engineered with precision, offering near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution. Combined with its low curb weight, this makes the RX-7 an absolute joy to drive, especially on twisty mountain roads. While it requires a bit more maintenance and care than other sports cars, the reward is an engaging, visceral driving experience that few vehicles can match. For those who appreciate finesse over brute strength, the RX-7 is a true gem.
4. Honda NSX
When the Honda NSX (or Acura NSX, depending on your region) hit the scene in the early ’90s, it completely flipped the script on what a supercar could be. Here was a mid-engine exotic that didn’t leak oil, didn’t overheat, and didn’t require a team of mechanics to keep it on the road. And yet, it delivered pure driving bliss.
Crafted with an all-aluminium body—revolutionary at the time—and tuned with feedback from none other than Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, the NSX offers a sublime balance of power, poise, and precision. Its naturally aspirated V6 engine, equipped with VTEC, delivers smooth yet exciting power delivery across the rev range. Everything about the NSX, from the cockpit visibility to the razor-sharp handling, feels purposeful. It’s the kind of car that invites you to become a better driver every time you slip behind the wheel.
5. Nissan GT-R (R35)
The R35 GT-R is the modern-day monster that continues the proud legacy of the Skyline bloodline. Launched in 2007, it marked a bold evolution—more refined, more powerful, and packed with cutting-edge technology. Under the hood is a hand-assembled 3.8L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, pushing out upwards of 565 horsepower in its standard trim and significantly more in special editions.
With its lightning-quick dual-clutch transmission and advanced all-wheel-drive system, the R35 demolishes 0–100 km/h in under 3 seconds—a feat that still stuns even years after its release. But the GT-R is more than just numbers; it’s a precision instrument, equally comfortable on the track or the highway. Its aggressive styling, tech-laden interior, and daily-drivability make it one of the most well-rounded performance cars on the planet. It’s a brute wrapped in a suit, ready to take on the world at a moment’s notice.
