Rare japanese supercars and european classics finding new life
February 4, 2025
The Mystery Of The HKS Zero-R
The HKS Zero-R stands as one of Japan’s most enigmatic supercars, born from HKS’s ambitious 1989 vision to transform the Nissan Skyline GT-R into something entirely new. Unlike a modified GT-R, the Zero-R was conceived as a distinct supercar requiring its own homologation, similar to European boutique manufacturers like RUF and Alpina.
The project faced significant hurdles due to Japan’s expensive homologation requirements in the 1990s. While production numbers remain disputed, photographic evidence suggests at least nine original cars were built - eight in silver and one white example for the Sultan of Brunei.
Throughout the 2000s, HKS introduced Version II and Version III iterations, potentially bringing the total production number to 14-17 vehicles. Each version featured updates in turbocharging, braking, and suspension technology. The exact count remains uncertain due to limited documentation and various modifications over the years.
Changes in Japanese road regulations eventually allowed HKS to make the Zero-R street legal, though the confusion around existing models persisted. The legacy continues today, with HKS currently developing a new Zero-R built from the ground up, aiming to finally realize their original vision for the platform.
GLORY RESTORED: Chasing the Alpine Dream
A Stuttgart native broke from local tradition, eschewing both Porsche and Mercedes for a different automotive love - the Alpine A110. The French-built rally car captured Jürgen Claus’s imagination through fleeting glimpses in his youth.
Born in 1960s Dieppe, the A110 was Jean Rédélé’s lightweight vision. Built on Renault mechanicals with a fiberglass body, this rear-engined precision instrument prioritized agility over raw power. The A110 dominated rally stages worldwide, claiming the inaugural World Rally Championship in 1973 and inspiring future legends like the Lancia Stratos.
Jürgen’s quest led him to Hungary, following whispers of a genuine works race car. Armed with cash and hope, he discovered a heavily modified A110 beneath layers of aftermarket parts. The chassis numbers confirmed its authenticity - one of just 17 built in 1973.
The restoration process spanned years, complicated by the A110’s hands-on French engineering philosophy. Without detailed factory specifications, Jürgen meticulously reversed decades of modifications, working to return one of the few surviving genuine works cars to its original glory.
“I fell in love with a queen,” Jürgen declares. “The queen of rallies.”
The Porsche 930 Turbo Launched a Brand and a Racing Dynasty
The Porsche 911 Turbo (930) marks a pivotal moment in automotive history, launching the “Turbo” brand that would define Porsche for 50 years. Originally developed for racing homologation in 1975, the 930 transformed from a track-focused machine into a legendary road car that combined raw power with grand touring comfort.
The 930’s development stemmed from Porsche’s racing success with turbocharged engines, particularly in Can-Am racing. Its distinctive features included wide haunches, a whale-tail spoiler, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine producing 256 hp in European spec (234 hp in US trim).
Despite its fearsome reputation, the early 930 was more manageable than commonly believed. Its long gearing and turbo lag actually served as safety features, though caution was still required in wet conditions. The car’s power delivery was dramatic, with minimal boost below 4000 rpm followed by an explosive surge of power.
The 930’s influence extended beyond Porsche, inspiring a turbocharging revolution across the automotive industry in the 1970s. Today, “Turbo” has evolved from a mere technical designation into a premium brand identity for Porsche, applied even to electric vehicles that don’t use turbochargers.
The original 911 Turbo’s combination of dramatic styling, luxury features, and potent performance created a template that continues to influence modern Porsche Turbos, regardless of their powertrain.
The uncommon art of automotive candles
A graphic designer in Indonesia has created a unique automotive collectible - meticulously detailed Porsche 911 Turbo candles. Pandu Rahadya, who runs the automotive design studio Parking Lot Hunter, crafted these lightly-scented wax replicas selling for $45 each.
Growing up immersed in car culture and studying fine arts, Rahadya wanted to expand beyond his design studio’s services to offer tangible products. The candle idea emerged from his passion for collecting model cars and diecast vehicles.
The development process involved extensive experimentation with natural waxes and scents. When burned, the candles transform into distinctive wax sculptures that can be displayed. While the product has gained more traction internationally than in Indonesia’s conservative market, Rahadya plans to expand the lineup with different car models and explore materials beyond wax.
The project represents a creative fusion of automotive enthusiasm and artistic design, born from pure enjoyment rather than purely business motives. Rahadya hopes to connect with others who share his passion for both cars and artistic expression.