The First North Carolina Autopian Meetup and Changli Rodeo was a success, despite minimal planning and using an unofficial parking lot, with a great turnout of people and cars, including a fantastic array of Rad-era vehicles and a JDM Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The event was well-received, with attendees expressing support for the host's recovery from aortic dissection, and plans for future meetups were discussed.
Kiel Fitzgibbon spent eight years transforming his R32 Nissan Skyline sedan into a high-performance machine, featuring a Black Pearl Metallic finish, Desmond Regamaster EVOII wheels, and a hard-tuned RB25DET engine producing around 600rwhp. The car boasts a GT-R inspired front-end, a meticulously upgraded driveline, and a suspension setup tailored for both road and track use, including Tein coilovers and Brembo brakes. This unique build stands out as a four-door monster, distinct from its more common GT-R coupe counterpart.
The Honda Motocompacto, a modern fold-up e-scooter and successor to the classic Motocompo, has become the latest target of scalpers. Despite no apparent shortage, with the scooter being readily available on Honda's website and at some dealers, resellers are listing the Motocompacto on platforms like Facebook Marketplace at significantly inflated prices. This scalping trend, typically seen with items in limited supply, raises questions about the scalpers' motives, given the current stable supply chain for the Motocompacto.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X has become a rare sight in the U.S., with only 150 currently for sale on Autotrader, despite a total import of 22,202 units between 2008 and 2015. Many have likely been modified, wrecked, or kept in storage by collectors, making unmodified versions even more scarce. The car's design, chassis, and performance are still considered relevant today, with enthusiasts being encouraged to drive and showcase these vehicles more often.
A 1991 Mazda Cosmo with a three-rotor, twin-turbo 20B Wankel engine is up for sale with an asking price of $38,000. This JDM-exclusive coupe, carrying the Eunos brand, features a striking design, original trim, and a well-maintained interior. With only 8,875 units ever sold, the Cosmo offers exclusivity and mechanical prowess. Despite its high price tag, the rarity and unique features of this Cosmo make it an enticing option for collectors and enthusiasts.
