Next NSX?

Perhaps. On the shape, Honda plays their cards close to their chest, but the specs for the new machine have been complete for 8-12 months. There are reports of a 3.5L VTEC V-8 with 5 valves producing 400 hp and perhaps a GT version with 4.0L's and 430 hp. Honda sources however, say that only one engine, the 4.0L V-8 producing between 400 and 450HP will be used in an all new and all steel body. The new NSX could be released in the US by mid 2003.

Imports Storm Targa

Targa Tasmania is Australia's best known tarmac rally. This year's Targa was a challenging 2,110km and 52 stages. As expected the Contemporary class (for 1998 – 2001 models) was won by the machine of choice for big budget competitors - a Porsche. First home was Jim Richards in a 2000 911 turbo, in second Tony Quinn of Queensland in a 2000 911 GT3. Hard on their heals however was a more affordable import; a 500kW R33 GTR? Guess again.

Victorians Craig Dean and Graham Bell beat home a gaggle of big spenders in their 1998 Toyota Supra RZ twin turbo. Dean representing Crossover Car Conversions challenged last year in a Ford Mustang and has also run a Soarer GT with a 2nd in 1998. Fifth were Brian Learoyd and Colin Palmer of Queensland driving a 2000 Chevrolet Corvette hard-top.

Beating two Porsches and two RX7s to a win in the Late Modern class (1991 - 1997) and sixth overall were Jeff and Nerida Beable and their 1997 R33 GT-R N1. Sixth in the class were James Miedecke and Peta Robert in a 1995 R33 GT-R V-Spec.

The Early Modern class (1982 - 1990) was won by Tasmanians John and Jason White in a 1990 Nissan 300ZX SMZ. Second were Japanese entrants Wakujiro Kobayashi and Hiroaki Otake in their 1990 Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R. In fifth class was Steve Thatcher of Just Jap Auto Imports NSW also in a 1990 R32 GT-R.

With imports dominant this year we look forward to next years targa and what is sure to be a popular move for many fans; Lancer Evo’s and WRX Sti’s which have until now been deemed unsuitable to enter, will next year be allowed to challenge. Bring on the grudge match, the battle of the imports.

For more targa info click on the tagra banner above and visit www.targa.org.au

New Z Car

Update, RHD Z on way. Nissan is still doing the rounds of the motor shows with the new Z and it's our turn at the Sydney International Motor Show in October. Though Nissan Australia will not be importing the GT-R they say they will release the new Z in late 2002. The production car, to be called the 350Z has been toned down somewhat; flaired guards narrowed and central exhausts separated. It's seems a convertible may also be available, though this is likely only for the US and Japanese markerts.

New R35 GT-R

Update, No V8. The R35 GT-R will now use a 300kW version of the 3.5L V6 that powers the Z Car. It seems that the heavier V8 would require a separate GT-R chassis to be developed, something Nissan isn't willing to shell out for. So the GT-R retains a twin turbo 6 and all the fruit we've come to love with one interesting option possible. A constantly variable transmission (CVT) may be offered, a box with an tiptronic eight speed function. Who can wait till 2003?

Lexus Sport Coupe

 Update, The SC430. Lexus has shown the SC430, the production version of the SC concept that is due for sale in Britan and the US anytime. As promised it combines high levels of performance with refinement. Power comes courtesy the 283hp, 4.3-litre VVT-i V8 coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Eighteen-inch wheels, double wishbone suspension and a rigid structure reportedly ensures class-leading dynamics and handling and all this with Lexus standards of comfort and refinement. Not sure about that chunky Wally styling though.

March 2000 saw the release of pictures of the new Mk.V Supra, sadly that may be all we'll see.

NSW fans of the MkV Supra visit http://www.xzibit.au.com/nswsupra.htm for info on the NSW Supra club.