Mitsubishi Scale Models
View allAll Photos Tagged 4g63
Mitsubishi Powered Hot Rod
The extensive use of aluminum gives the hot rod its sleek, smooth appearance as well as its name. The mid-engine hot rod was designed by General Motors and Ford designer Larry Erickson and built by the legendary Boyd Coddington. Looking to promote the company’s products, Mitsubishi provided the instrument panel and 1991 Eclipse four-cylinder engine which was mounted transversely and mated to a 1990 Galant transaxle with billet drive shafts and hub carriers. The hot rod features independent suspension in the front and rear, a custom fabricated tube chassis, custom Connolly leather seats, Boyd steering wheel and Tri-Fan wheels.
Engine: Turbocharged 2.0L inline-four
(Mitsubishi 4G63, provided by Mitsubishi for this project)
Horsepower: 320hp
Top Speed: 150mph
Collection of the Petersen Automotive Museum, Gift of David Sydorick
This Vehicle featured in ‘The Vault’. At the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Bonus shot of ex works GBRf 66710 which was taken off the Rail 200 Exhibition train at Birmingham Moor Street and sent to Hams Hall to work 4F13 11.38 Hams Hall - Seaforth 'liner'.
Seen here passing the gallery at Winwick two hours late.
Later that evening it worked 4G63 20.46 Seaforth - Hams Hall.
* Heavy sagging wire removed.
If you love a sport that features car control over raw power, then our cone killer shirts are for you! These shirts are great for any Auto Cross, Drift, Road Race, or Gymkhana fans. If you like these shirts as much as we do, check out the entire collection at www.boostgear.com
Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/dtphotographycy/
Youtube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lgpKgR3uzqjkz-Q_4UxEQ
Instagram:
Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/dtphotographycy/
Youtube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lgpKgR3uzqjkz-Q_4UxEQ
Instagram:
E85 300+awkw Evolution IX
200W fluorescent Ballast powered by 2stroke Generator.
Custom Automotive suction Rig.
Mitsubishi Galant Eterna is a sixth-generation models in 1987. 4G63 engine is a 1997 cc version. (85 mm x 88 mm Bore Stroke) SOHC and DOHC were produced. DOHC version was introduced in 1987 in the Japanese market Galant VR-4 and came turbocharged with 4G63T engine code. It is found in various models including the 1988-1992 Galant VR-4 and the U.S. market 1990-1999 Eclipse, as well as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I-IX.
SOHC version used in Mitsubishi Galant models until 1993. It has 76 kW of output and 157 NM of torque at 4,750 rpm.
n 1987.
The sixth generation was also the first to see the introduction of the VR-4 variant, which is the basis for Mitsubishi's participation in the World Rally Championship from 1988 to 1992. The Galant's 4G63 two liter DOHC turbocharged engine and 4WD transmission was later adopted for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution with little modification, and would remain in production for fifteen years.
Mitsubishi Eterna called
2000GTX Dodge (Canada)
Eagle 2000GTX (Canada)
ZX / MF / MS / MX (Venezuela)
produced 1987-1992
A functional piston engine with a custom header made of all my pneumatic hose trimmings and superglue.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003-05) Engine 1997cc 4G63 S4 Turbo
Registration Number M 27 TYY (Cherished number)
MITSUBISHI ALBUM
www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623673365229...
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII appeared in 2003 with 17 inch Enkei wheels, Brembo brakes and Bilstein shocks to handle traction and a 5-speed manual gearbox with 280 PS (206 kW; 276 hp) Originally a one off model, that by 2005 had expanded to four trims: the standard GSR model in Japan, the RS, 5-speed gearbox, and standard wheels (lacking excess components, such as interior map lights, power windows/doors, and radio), the SSL (with a sunroof, trunk mounted subwoofer, and leather seats) All of which had chrome head and taillight housings, and the MR, which came with a revised front limited-slip differential, aluminium MR shift knob, handbrake with carbon fibre handle, 17 inch BBS wheels, aluminium roof, and a 6-speed manual gearbox The Lancer Evolution VIII was also the first Evolution to be sold in the United States of America, driven by the success of the Subaru Impreza WRX which had been released there just the year prior..
Diolch am 91,687,046 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr.
Thanks for 91,687,046 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated.
Shot 17.04.2022 Weston Park (Classic Car Show), Weston-under-Lizard, Salop 157-245
Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/dtphotographycy/
Youtube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lgpKgR3uzqjkz-Q_4UxEQ
Instagram:
I've had this little guy sitting on top of my LEGO bin for about...errrr.... 6 months now? Yeah seriously, THAT long.
Anyways, my biggest setback is that I don't wanna build any cars that have this engine :P (Well actually I REALLY want to build a 2G Eclipse but that's practically impossible for me)
I started putting this into a Japanse A6M Zero inspired Mitsubishi Cordia AWD but I kinda gave up on that when the LUGNuts aviation challenge ended.
I just haven't found the right car to put it in and using ribbed hose for intercooler piping is probably not one of my better ideas.... As you can see fitting this will be a pain in the rump on no matter what car I go with.
So goodbye Cordia, goodbye 4G63 (for now). If you wanna steal this engine for one of your projects, go right ahead, just be sure to slap me some credit if you borrow my utter genius. ;)
Good luck duplicating it though, the inner structure of this lego engine is actually rather complex.
I spent a LOT of time getting that valve cover just right.
Photographed in : Subang Jaya, Malaysia
Assembly : Shah Alam, Malaysia
Notes : Trim level unknown. Rear garnish has been digitally altered to conceal damage.
Mini-article
The original Proton Perdana became a symbol of prosperity for not just Proton, but Malaysia as well when it was launched on 26 January 1995. This was a time when morale was relatively high for Proton, having sold over 300,000 units of the Saga by 1991, following up to the successful launch of the Saga Iswara in August 1992. Proton had also unveiled the then all-new Wira in May 1993, which took the company to new heights and also new territory. By 1995, the Wira had been exported to not just Great Britain, but also Germany, France, Belgium and a several more countries in Europe. Then in early 1995, the Perdana was launched as 'the icing on the cake'. Malaysia too was in high spirits between the late 1980s and the first half of the 1990s, with a strong economy growing at an average of 8%. This was a time when grand projects were being built, like the Petronas Twin Towers (tallest buildings in the world, 1998 to 2004), the North-South Expressway (a 772 km or 480 mile highway which links Johor Bahru in the southern end of the Malay Peninsula to Kedah in the north, as well as everything in between), Kuala Lumpur International Airport or KLIA (which handled 25.4 millions passengers in 2014, just 5 million short of the entire population of Malaysia itself !) and the Multimedia Super Corridor or MSC Malaysia (which encompasses the 'smart city' that is Cyberjaya, political powerhouse Putrajaya and to an extent the entire Klang Valley / Greater Kuala Lumpur area).
In many ways then, the original Proton Perdana represents that blissful era of Malaysian prosperity in the sense that it was the country's first 'luxury car'. Of course, when it comes to luxury, it's no match for something German (5-Series, E-Class etc.), let alone a Bentley or Rolls-Royce... but relatively speaking, it was very much a 'luxury car' in most Malaysian hearts and minds. When the Perdana launched (at a cost of around RM85,000), Proton was inundated with orders, and the waiting list stretched up to six months. There were even cases of early birds who ended up selling their Perdanas for up to RM95,000, or 12% more than what they bought it for ! That clearly sums up how desirable the Proton Perdana was in mid-90s. Proton, which launched their first car only less than a decade back now had a car which had something previous Protons could have only dreamt of; the Perdana had the image, it had the presence and it commanded respect. Even today, the original Perdana still maintains some of that 'magic' it had back in the mid-90s.
The original / first generation Perdana was based on the seventh generation Mitsubishi Eterna (or Galant), and was initially fitted with Mitsubishi's 4G63 engine, a large 2.0-litre, 16-valve four-cylinder unit which could put out a maximum 135hp. On 12 November 1998, Proton took it up a notch by introducing the Proton Perdana V6. As its name suggests, it was fitted with a V6 engine, a first for a Proton, specifically Mitsubishi's 6A12 2.0-litre, 24-valve V6 unit. The new V6 engine could put out up to 148hp, making the Perdana V6 one of the most powerful Protons ever made. Owners claim that the Perdana V6 has one of the sexiest exhaust notes out there... and I must concur. Aside from the engine, Proton also refreshed the exterior and Lotus too had a say in the Perdana V6's ride and handling. Sometime in 2003, Proton updated the Perdana V6 with a new grille (which bears a strong resemblance to that of a certain Italian car maker), rims, front and rear bumpers and rear lights, and made some tweaks on the dated interior. Proton went on to make this version of the Perdana V6 for another 7 years. The first generation Perdana enjoyed a long production cycle; around 15 years no less. It wasn't until late 2013 that Proton unveiled its successor, the second generation Perdana, this time being based on the eighth generation, ASEAN market Honda Accord instead.
Proton only exported the original Perdana to neighbouring Singapore and Brunei. However, there were plans to export the Perdana to Europe and Australia. Indeed, Proton had a Perdana on display at the Brussels Motor Show in the mid-90s, where it was renamed the Proton 600 Series. Sadly, by this time, it was too late for Proton and forces that could not be controlled (that is the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis) started to dictate Proton's future in the late 90s. The financial crisis brought about the end of Proton's overseas expansion. However, Proton did ship around 20 or so Perdanas to the United Kingdom. They were used to chauffeur VIPs at Proton Cars U.K.. Here's two photos of one such example.
Speaking of VIPs, the Perdana is best known for its widespread use by the Malaysian government. Even today, many first generation Perdanas (mostly Perdana V6 units) soldier on in loyal service. Then there's the Royal Malaysia Police, which used the Perdana for various duties, including highway patrols and VIP escorts. The many Sultans of Malaysia have Proton Perdanas as well. Some foreign embassies in Malaysia also use the Proton Perdana as diplomat cars. Known embassies include Singapore, Indonesia and Palestine.
The Perdana then, is not your average Proton.
1989 Mitsubishi Delica. 205 Diesel.
The Mitsubishi Delica is a range of vans and pickup trucks designed and built by the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors since 1968. It was originally based on a cabover van and pickup truck introduced the previous year, also called the Delica, its name a contraction of the English language phrase Delivery car.
Third generation
Also called Mitsubishi L300, Mitsubishi Express (Australia)
PO5 (Sri Lanka), Mitsubishi Starwagon (Australia), Mitsubishi Versa Van, Mitsubishi Van/Wagon (US)[32], Dodge 1000 (Mexico), Hyundai Grace, Hyundai H-100, Mitsubishi L300 Exceed (Philippines), Soueast Delica (China), Wanli Grace, WLZ6470 (China), Sanxing SXZ6441 (China), CMC D260 (Taiwan) and CMC D270 (Taiwan)
Production
1986–1994, 1994–2013 (extended production), 1986–2003 (Hyundai), 1991–present (CMC), 1997–2004 (Philippines)
and 1996–2013 (Soueast Motors)
Assembly Japan: Nagoya (Nagoya Plant), South Korea: Ulsan, Philippines: Cainta, Taiwan: Taipei (CMC), Venezuela: Caracas and China: Fuzhou (Soueast Motors)
Body styles, 2-door pickup and 4-door van/minibus
Layout, Mid engine, rear-/four-wheel drive
Engines
Petrol:, 1439 cc 4G33 I4, 1597 cc 4G32 I4 (P02/12), 1795 cc, 4G62 I4, 1997 cc 4G63 I4, 2351 cc 4G64 I4 (P24) and 2400 cc 4G69 I4 (P24)
Diesel engines, 2476 cc 4D56 I4, 2476 cc 4D56 TD I4
2494 cc 2KD-FTV D-ID (diesel; China), 3.2 L MZ-CD 3.2 D-ID l5 (diesel) and 2607 cc D4BB I4 (China)
Transmission 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual CMC
(2019):, 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual
Wheelbase2,235–2,435 mm (88.0–95.9 in)
Length4,380–4,780 mm (172.4–188.2 in)
4,945–4,952 mm (194.7–195.0 in) (Soueast Delica)
Width1,690 mm (66.5 in)
1,695 mm (66.7 in) (Soueast Delica
Height1,840–1,955 mm (72.4–77.0 in)
1,970 mm (77.6 in) (Soueast Delica)
Chronology
Successor Hyundai Grand Starex / H
Tone Mapped with NIK Collection Color EFEX pro 4 in Photoshop, corrected with Lightroom.
Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/dtphotographycy/
Youtube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UC9lgpKgR3uzqjkz-Q_4UxEQ
Instagram:
Photographed in : Subang Jaya, Malaysia
Assembly : Shah Alam, Malaysia
Notes : Trim level unknown. Rear garnish has been digitally altered to conceal damage.
Mini-article
The original Proton Perdana became a symbol of prosperity for not just Proton, but Malaysia as well when it was launched on 26 January 1995. This was a time when morale was relatively high for Proton, having sold over 300,000 units of the Saga by 1991, following up to the successful launch of the Saga Iswara in August 1992. Proton had also unveiled the then all-new Wira in May 1993, which took the company to new heights and also new territory. By 1995, the Wira had been exported to not just Great Britain, but also Germany, France, Belgium and a several more countries in Europe. Then in early 1995, the Perdana was launched as 'the icing on the cake'. Malaysia too was in high spirits between the late 1980s and the first half of the 1990s, with a strong economy growing at an average of 8%. This was a time when grand projects were being built, like the Petronas Twin Towers (tallest buildings in the world, 1998 to 2004), the North-South Expressway (a 772 km or 480 mile highway which links Johor Bahru in the southern end of the Malay Peninsula to Kedah in the north, as well as everything in between), Kuala Lumpur International Airport or KLIA (which handled 25.4 millions passengers in 2014, just 5 million short of the entire population of Malaysia itself !) and the Multimedia Super Corridor or MSC Malaysia (which encompasses the 'smart city' that is Cyberjaya, political powerhouse Putrajaya and to an extent the entire Klang Valley / Greater Kuala Lumpur area).
In many ways then, the original Proton Perdana represents that blissful era of Malaysian prosperity in the sense that it was the country's first 'luxury car'. Of course, when it comes to luxury, it's no match for something German (5-Series, E-Class etc.), let alone a Bentley or Rolls-Royce... but relatively speaking, it was very much a 'luxury car' in most Malaysian hearts and minds. When the Perdana launched (at a cost of around RM85,000), Proton was inundated with orders, and the waiting list stretched up to six months. There were even cases of early birds who ended up selling their Perdanas for up to RM95,000, or 12% more than what they bought it for ! That clearly sums up how desirable the Proton Perdana was in mid-90s. Proton, which launched their first car only less than a decade back now had a car which had something previous Protons could have only dreamt of; the Perdana had the image, it had the presence and it commanded respect. Even today, the original Perdana still maintains some of that 'magic' it had back in the mid-90s.
The original / first generation Perdana was based on the seventh generation Mitsubishi Eterna (or Galant), and was initially fitted with Mitsubishi's 4G63 engine, a large 2.0-litre, 16-valve four-cylinder unit which could put out a maximum 135hp. On 12 November 1998, Proton took it up a notch by introducing the Proton Perdana V6. As its name suggests, it was fitted with a V6 engine, a first for a Proton, specifically Mitsubishi's 6A12 2.0-litre, 24-valve V6 unit. The new V6 engine could put out up to 148hp, making the Perdana V6 one of the most powerful Protons ever made. Owners claim that the Perdana V6 has one of the sexiest exhaust notes out there... and I must concur. Aside from the engine, Proton also refreshed the exterior and Lotus too had a say in the Perdana V6's ride and handling. Sometime in 2003, Proton updated the Perdana V6 with a new grille (which bears a strong resemblance to that of a certain Italian car maker), rims, front and rear bumpers and rear lights, and made some tweaks on the dated interior. Proton went on to make this version of the Perdana V6 for another 7 years. The first generation Perdana enjoyed a long production cycle; around 15 years no less. It wasn't until late 2013 that Proton unveiled its successor, the second generation Perdana, this time being based on the eighth generation, ASEAN market Honda Accord instead.
Proton only exported the original Perdana to neighbouring Singapore and Brunei. However, there were plans to export the Perdana to Europe and Australia. Indeed, Proton had a Perdana on display at the Brussels Motor Show in the mid-90s, where it was renamed the Proton 600 Series. Sadly, by this time, it was too late for Proton and forces that could not be controlled (that is the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis) started to dictate Proton's future in the late 90s. The financial crisis brought about the end of Proton's overseas expansion. However, Proton did ship around 20 or so Perdanas to the United Kingdom. They were used to chauffeur VIPs at Proton Cars U.K.. Here's two photos of one such example.
Speaking of VIPs, the Perdana is best known for its widespread use by the Malaysian government. Even today, many first generation Perdanas (mostly Perdana V6 units) soldier on in loyal service. Then there's the Royal Malaysia Police, which used the Perdana for various duties, including highway patrols and VIP escorts. The many Sultans of Malaysia have Proton Perdanas as well. Some foreign embassies in Malaysia also use the Proton Perdana as diplomat cars. Known embassies include Singapore, Indonesia and Palestine.
The Perdana then, is not your average Proton.
Registration ET52AUX
Make MITSUBISHI
Model UNKNOWN
Description
Fuel Type Petrol
CO2 (g/km) Not Available
VRT % Rate
The Airtrek was first introduced to the Japanese market on 20 June 2001, priced from ¥1.7–2.3 million. It offered a choice of either a 126 PS (93 kW) 4G63 2.0 L or a 139 PS (102 kW) 4G64 2.4 L GDI, mated to a standard INVECS-II 4-speed semi-automatic transmission. Both front- and four-wheel drive were available. The four-wheel drive version uses open differentials for the front and rear axles, with a viscous coupling unit for the center differential. A high performance model, called the Turbo R, was introduced in 2002 and used a detuned version of the Lancer Evolution's 4G63T 2.0 L I4 turbo.[16] The engine produced 240 PS (180 kW) and 343 Nm (253 lb⋅ft), although in export markets the Outlander version's output was reduced to 202 PS (149 kW) and 303 N⋅m (223 lb⋅ft).
Here's an image I captured back in 2006 that I just now went to look at. Used my friends Canon Rebel XT
with the kit lens.
Tasteful modifications on this VR-4, but I'd still rather take one in original condition. The "Boost" and "Extreme PSI" stickers make me a bit worried for this car's future, however. At an imports show attached to the Lime Rock vintage races and concours d'élegance, 2014.
Testing out the new glass.
ps. the car is dirty (had to go off road)
Instagram: www.instagram.com/adisredzic_
Facebook: www.facebook.com/adisredzicphoto
Website: www.adisredzic.com
Tasteful modifications on this VR-4, but I'd still rather take one in original condition. Love this gray color, I exaggerated the dullness of it. At an imports show attached to the Lime Rock vintage races and concours d'élegance, 2014.
Furious Turbo 4s
2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR
2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi
2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed3
Think Autobots versus Decepticons is the biggest battle of archenemies? Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution and Subaru’s WRX STi have been dueling for decades on the World Rally Championship circuit and more recently on the street and time attack course.
The 2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR represents the ultimate iteration of the Diamond Star gang’s awe-inspiring 4G63 engine. This rock solid Turbo 4 propelled Finnish driver Turbo Tommi Makinen to four consecutive WRC championships from 1996 to ‘99. In the Evo IX the 4G63 is rated at it highest output ever, 286 horsepower, and Forza Motorsport 3 tuners will find it one of the most willing boost-up partners. Yes, 143 horsepower per liter is merely the starting line.
In the opposite corner we have another rally-bred beast in the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. Colin McRae (1995), Richard Burns (2001) and Petter Solberg (2003) all power-slid race-prepped WRX STi’s to the WRC driver’s championship. The road-going 2008 STi is motivated by a turbocharged 2.5-liter EJ25 boxer four engine with 300 horses in the corral. So the STi comes out swinging with a power advantage and aggressively broad shoulders that will tempt livery-painters as much as tuners.
Getting the most out of this dynamic duo will be truly exhilarating as each vehicle sports a tenacious all-wheel drive system for maximum grip. Forza 3’s advanced physics modeling allows drivers to surgically control four-wheel drifts over every nuance of the racing surface, or master the subtlety to shave vital tenths off your lap times. Once you get dialed into one of these slip-angle masters, few other production cars, even purported “supercars,” will be able to touch you.
A boisterous upstart unwilling to cave into the substantial motorsports pedigrees of the Evo and STi, the 2009 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 follows the Turbo 4 formula but lacks an all-wheel drive powertrain. Playing the “if you don’t have torque steer you’re not making enough power” card, the MS3 coerces 263 horsepower through its front wheels. Can a front drive take on these all-wheel giants? Do you have the driving skill to out-duel other players in this hard-charging underdog? This Mazda won’t disappoint.
B-Segment Buzz Bombs
2008 Toyota Yaris S
2009 Honda Fit Sport
2009 Nissan Versa SL
In a world where sporting two liters is like rolling with a big block, only dogged determination and pure tuning talent will win the day. With powerplants that scream like a banshee at full song, the 2008 Toyota Yaris S, 2009 Honda Fit Sport, 2009 Nissan Versa SL offer a unique racing experience for Forza 3 players. There is something “so wrong it’s right” about taking cars envisioned from conception as sedate urban people movers and transforming them into competitive racing machines. The extensive upgrades sandbox of Forza 3, its Livery Editor, Auction House and deep tuning garage make it possible to transform these tame sub-compacts into potential Ferrari-killers.
At a “whopping” 122 horsepower, the Versa SL is the bully of these B-segment econoboxes. The Fit Sport is next in the pecking order at 117 ponies followed by the 90-pound weakling that is the 106-horsepower Yaris S. The Japanese tuning market has embraced this sub-compact segment in a big way and now you can add your own JDM flair to the proceedings. Never mind the starting point, get it right and these lightweight and supremely tossable shoeboxes can make for some of the most entertaining hot laps in Forza 3.
Upscale Style Seekers
2010 Nissan 370Z
2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe Sport
2009 Lexus IS-F
This grouping of Forza 3 car roster combatants have an added degree of class and swagger, featuring some of the most sensuous body lines on the road today. No forced induction, all-wheel drive or feather-light chassis here, these brutes use displacement and rear-wheel drive to get the job done.
The 2010 Nissan 370Z and 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe Sport share the same stout VQ37HR V6 powerplant and running gear. Dropping a turbo kit under the hood is like opening a can of 500-horsepower whoop-ass. The Z is an accomplished racer in JGTC/Super GT competition in both GT300 and GT500 classes so expect mods aplenty for aspiring Forza 3 tuners.
A surprisingly serious performance machine, the 2009 Lexus IS-F has a two-cylinder advantage over its Nissan/Infiniti rivals. This translates in to an 86-horse inferiority complex for the 330-horsepower G37 (84 for the 332-hp Z) as the Lexus’ quad-cammed, 5.0-liter V8 puts an intense 416 horsepower at your fingertips. With Forza 3’s new cockpit view, Lexus’ benchmark luxury translates into a classy ride for IS-F owners in the game. With meticulous interior detail for each of our 400-plus cars in Forza 3, fans of high-end sedans can expect to enjoy the fine touch of leather in every stitch.
Iconic JDM Racers
#23 Xanavi Nismo Nissan GT-R
#12 Calsonic Impul Nissan GT-R
#3 YellowHat TMS Tomica Nissan GT-R
#36 Petronas Tom’s Toyota SC430
#25 Eclipse Advan Toyota SC430
#6 Eneos Toyota SC430
#23 Nissan Motorsports R390
Nissan’s renowned GT-R badge is up to its old tricks. In its first go around, the R32 variant laid down the law dominating JTC Group A competition winning 29 straight races and four titles between 1989 and ‘93. The current R35 GT-R is flexing its muscles on the race track as well, dominating the Super GT GT500 driver’s championship with the #23 Xanavi Nismo Nissan GT-R in 2008. With Forza 3, you can take the place of pilot Satoshi Motoyami and take control of this lethal track weapon. Jump back in time and go nostalgic behind the wheel of one of the most famously liveried GT-Rs: the bright blue of the #12 Calsonic Impul Nissan GT-R wearing the same colors and number as the R32 that won the championship in 1990. Forza 3 also opens the door on the #3 YellowHat TMS Tomica Nissan GT-R. With 10 times the car detail of Forza Motorsport 2, these JDM race cars in Forza 3 nail both authenticity and sensation of speed.
Squaring off against the GT-R in Super GT is a tall order but the GT500-spec Toyota SC430 has long legs. That’s right, the Lexus SC430, a plush hard-top convertible known more for cruising Beverly Hills boutiques than carving high-g apexes is a legit racer in Japan. In fact, the #36 Petronas Tom’s Toyota SC430 currently second in GT500 driver standings and both the #25 Eclipse Advan Toyota SC430 and #6 Eneos Toyota SC430 have been hard chargers during the 2009 Super GT season. Pick one of these SCs and take out an R35 if you can.
Experience a trail-blazing 24 Hours of Le Mans legend. The #23 Nissan Motorsports R390 was Nissan’s top finisher in the 1997 24 Hours of Le Mans, claiming a 12th overall, fifth in GT1 class. The car with a distinctive red and black livery and familiar Calsonic and Xanavi support served as a stepping stone for the 1998 R390 that was the first all-Japanese effort to reach the podium at Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans. A 641-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.5-liter V8 provided thrust for the long-tailed endurance racer. Can savvy gamers strap on the #23 R390, out-drive the competition and bring home the trophy?
Iconic JDM Tracks
Suzuka International Race Course
One of the big dogs of Japanese tracks, Suzuka was home to Formula One’s Japanese Grand Prix until 2007 when the honor fell to Fuji Speedway. But F1 will return in 2009 and Suzuka currently hosts Super GT twice a year. The 3.608-mile course requires cat-like reflexes as its 17 turns, highlighted by the quick transitions of the “S” complex, the Turn 11 hairpin, and the tricky Casio Triangle will keep drivers on their A-Game. But don’t fear the throttle, as there are numerous high-speed sections that demand a total commitment from your weighted leadfoot.
Twin Ring Motegi
Motegi is where the Japanese get their groove on NASCAR-style. The venue, built by Honda in 1997, is home to a 1.549-mile oval and a 2.98-mile road course. It has held a NASCAR exhibition race in ’98, was part of the CART circuit from ’98 to 2002 and then it went to host the IRL in 2003. In 2008 Danica Patrick made headlines, becoming the first woman to win an Indy Car race at the Indy Japan 300, the only event currently held on the egg-shaped oval.
The Motegi road course doesn’t have the elevation changes of some of the other Japanese circuits but features an intoxicating blend of tight corners and high-speed sweepers. Motegi is the last race on the Super GT schedule so this track is a mix of handling and speed that will take a balanced vehicle and skilled driver to get around cleanly.
Tsukuba Circuit
Players will get more of a grassroots vibe at Tsukuba as the 1.286-mile track can accommodate only 8,500 spectators opposed to Motegi that sees crowds of more than 68,000 and Suzuka that houses 100,000. Home of the famous Revspeed Super Battle, the original time attack that hit the Japanese tuning scene in 1990, and D1 Grand Prix drifting events, Tsukuba hums to an underground soundtrack where other Japanese venues feature a much more mainstream beat. Consequently, Tsukuba rewards agility over brute power so gamers who can hit their apexes and keep the momentum rolling should do well on this track. If you drift, welcome to heaven.