Japanese Nostalgic Car

Today, May 9, is Tool Day in Japan. It’s a relatively new holiday, founded only in 2021 by KTC, Japan’s number one tool company. The purpose of Tool Day, according to KTC, its to spread knowledge about tools, their correct usage, and maintenance methods. They recommend that on this day, owners learn how to use the tools properly, clean and polish them, or use  them to maintain a car.

A well-kept tool box is key for any JNC owner, but it takes time to build. At the very minimum, a set of metric wrenches are a must-have. On the other end of the cost spectrum, so is a torque wrench if you want to do anything beyond an oil change. In an emergency situation there’s not much than can beat a set of locking pliers, which can double as screwdrivers, wrenches, or even a make-shift differential. They’ve gotten us out of many a jam.

What’s the one tool you can’t live without?

The best comment by next Monday will receive a prize. Scroll down to see the winner of last week’s QotW, “What cars would you put in your $250,000 dream garage?“. Continue reading →

When car enthusiasts talk about the best drivers’ cars, it’s usually selfish. Taking off for a long drive in the Z is fantastic when you’re young and free, but once the kiddos come along you’ll something bigger. By all means, have your weekend sports car or GT, but why suffer when traveling with the brood? We’re looking for a vehicle that can carry two parents, 1-2 kids, and all associated gear for multi-day road trips. It should be reliable, comfortable for passengers, and get decent mileage. But — and this is the part that makes it challenging — it must also be fun to drive.

What’s the best road trip car for the whole family?

The best comment by next Monday will receive a prize. Scroll down to see the winner of last week’s QotW, “What’s your favorite automotive invention?” Continue reading →

Today, April 18, is Invention Day in Japan, a remembrance of the day in 1885 when the Japanese patent system was established. The automotive world has often been on the forefront of innovation, whether its advanced stuff like carbon fiber composites or what-took-them-so-long ideas like the humble cupholder. And don’t forget the Bubble Era gimmicks like the Pulsar EXA’s swappable rear hatch. For the purposes of not stating the obvious, we’ll exclude items like engines and, you know, the wheel, unless you have a unique take on the topic.

What’s your favorite automotive invention?

The best comment by next Monday will receive a prize. Scroll down to see the winner of last week’s QotW, “How do you listen to audio content in your car?” Continue reading →