The Department of Transportation's 25-year import exemption rule continues to open doors for enthusiasts to bring previously forbidden vehicles into the United States, and this year, the spotlight falls on the unique Japanese Tommykaira ZZ roadster. While the Renault Avantime, a quirky minivan-sized coupe, also makes the list, the Tommykaira ZZ offers a distinctly different, feather-light driving experience. Known for its agile handling and compact design, the entire first-generation production run of this elusive car is now eligible for import, sparking excitement among collectors and driving aficionados alike.
Originating from the vision of Yoshikazu Tomita, a European sports car importer, and Kikuo Kaira, a Formula 2 racer with a keen engineering mind, Tommykaira initially built a reputation by tuning popular production cars like the Impreza and Skyline. This expertise eventually led to the creation of their own vehicle, the ZZ. Powered by a Nissan-sourced SR20 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the ZZ delivers 178 horsepower, while the ZZ-S variant boasts 197 horsepower. Its remarkable power-to-weight ratio, comparable to the formidable R34 Skyline GT-R, is achieved through an incredibly low curb weight of just over 1400 pounds, making it significantly lighter than even a Lotus Elise.
However, owning a Tommykaira ZZ comes with its own set of considerations. As these vehicles were manufactured in the U.K. under contract, certain spare parts can be exceedingly difficult to find, often requiring custom fabrication. Furthermore, the roadster's minimal weather protection means drivers should be prepared for exposure to the elements. With only 220 units ever produced, locating one can be a challenge, yet its rarity and cult status, amplified by its inclusion in the Gran Turismo video game series, make it a highly desirable collector's item. The chance to park a Tommykaira ZZ alongside a Renault Avantime would undoubtedly create one of the most intriguing and satisfying two-car collections imaginable.
The automotive world is rich with diverse engineering achievements, and the Tommykaira ZZ stands as a testament to the pursuit of pure driving exhilaration. Its journey from a Japanese niche product to an importable classic inspires us to appreciate the ingenuity and passion that drives innovation in vehicle design. This opportunity to experience such a distinctive machine firsthand reminds us that true gems often lie beyond the conventional, waiting to be discovered and celebrated for their unique contributions to automotive history.
