Top Japan Cars 2006 SS — Classic 2006 Japanese Supercars

Top Japan Cars 2006 SS: Performance & HighlightsThe year 2006 marked an interesting moment for Japanese automakers — a blend of established performance icons, emerging tuning-friendly platforms, and refined grand tourers. This article examines the standout “SS” (sport/super sport) models and sport-focused variants from Japan in 2006, focusing on performance figures, engineering highlights, driving character, and their legacy today.

What “SS” means in this context

“SS” here is used broadly to indicate sport-oriented or super-sport variants rather than a single manufacturer designation. It covers factory high-performance trims, limited-run halo models, and enthusiast-tuned versions that defined Japan’s performance image in 2006.

Key contenders (overview)

Below are several Japanese cars from 2006 that fit the SS performance/sports profile. Each entry includes engine/transmission details, performance numbers, notable technology, driving traits, and lasting appeal.

Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34 — late-production and aftermarket relevance)

Engine: RB26DETT inline-6, twin-turbo (official R34 production ended in 2002, but the R34 remained a dominant performance platform into 2006 via aftermarket, imports, and tuner builds)
Power: stock ~276 hp (Japanese “gentlemen’s agreement”); tuned builds commonly 400–800+ hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual (aftermarket swaps common)
Highlights: legendary AWD ATTESA E-TS system and Super-HICAS rear steering; durable iron block suited to high boost tuning.
Driving character: composed high-speed stability, immense tuning headroom; raw, mechanical feel compared with modern electronics.
Legacy: Cultural icon — cornerstone of tuning and motorsport communities; R34 GT-Rs remained highly sought after in 2006 and beyond.

Nissan 350Z (Z33 Nismo / Track variants)

Engine: VQ35DE 3.5L V6 (VQ35HR later); Nismo-tuned parts and track packages available
Power: 287–300 hp depending on model and market
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Highlights: balanced front-mid engine layout, responsive steering, strong aftermarket support; Nismo and Motul Autech special editions sharpened handling and output.
Driving character: communicative chassis, rear-wheel drive fun, accessible performance for enthusiasts.
Legacy: Revitalized the Z lineage for modern sports-car buyers; remains a popular platform for customization and track use.

Toyota Supra (MK4 — JDM legacy and aftermarket in 2006)

Engine: 2JZ-GTE inline-6 twin-turbo (MK4 production ended in 2002, but like the R34, it was central to 2006 tuning culture)
Power: factory ~276 hp (actual output often higher); tuned examples commonly 400–1000+ hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual (R154/Getrag swaps), 4-speed automatic
Highlights: exceptionally strong iron-block 2JZ, massive tuning potential, iconic Garrett/TO4 turbo configurations in aftermarket builds.
Driving character: torquey, smooth power delivery; great chassis balance with aftermarket suspension upgrades.
Legacy: Supra MK4 was a global legend; in 2006 it dominated tuner magazines, drag strips, and street scenes.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX

Engine: 4G63 2.0L DOHC turbocharged inline-4
Power: ~286–295 hp (market-dependent); known for torque delivery and responsiveness
Transmission: 5-speed manual / 6-speed manual (later models/variants)
Highlights: advanced AWD Active Center Differential (ACD), sport-tuned suspension, rally-derived performance and electronics.
Driving character: sharp turn-in, communicative chassis, excellent traction and mid-corner stability.
Legacy: Evo IX continued Mitsubishi’s rally-to-road success; cherished by purists for its analogue feel and tuning potential.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GD, 2006 model year)

Engine: EJ257 2.5L turbocharged boxer-4
Power: ~300 hp (varies slightly by market)
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Highlights: symmetrical AWD, Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), rally-proven durability.
Driving character: playful, precise handling with enormous grip; strong midrange punch.
Legacy: STI remained a darling of rally fans and tuners; 2006 models are valued for their raw, direct driving experience.

Honda S2000 (AP2 transition around 2004–2006)

Engine: F20C/F22C inline-4 naturally aspirated
Power: ~240–247 hp (AP2’s F22C1 for some markets offered improved midrange)
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Highlights: extremely high-revving engine (redline ~9,000 rpm on F20C originally), superb chassis balance, precise steering and excellent limited-slip differential options.
Driving character: razor-sharp response, thrilling revs, confidence-inspiring cornering.
Legacy: Held as one of the best naturally aspirated roadster engines; in 2006 it was a contemporary benchmark for driver engagement.

Mazda RX-8 (Spirit R and performance variants)

Engine: 13B-MSP Renesis rotary
Power: ~232–250 hp depending on variant and market
Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
Highlights: lightweight rotary engine, near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, high-revving character, limited-edition Spirit R with upgraded dampers and exhaust.
Driving character: razor-sharp turn-in, unique powerband and sound; requires attentive maintenance.
Legacy: Celebrated for its chassis dynamics and uniqueness; 2006 RX-8s offered distinctive alternatives to piston engines.

Lexus IS 350 / IS-F (early IS-F development signals)

Engine: 2GR-FSE V6 (IS 350), IS-F concept moving toward V8 performance
Power: IS 350 ~306 hp; IS-F later introduced a 5.0L V8 in 2007 producing ~416 hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual/automatic options evolving; IS-F used 8-speed automatic in later versions
Highlights: combination of luxury refinement with sporty tuning; IS-F emergence showed Toyota/Lexus commitment to high-performance sedans.
Driving character: refined yet potent; IS-F would offer muscle to compete with European rivals.
Legacy: Set the stage for Lexus’ performance sub-brand (F).

Performance comparisons (quick table)

Model	Engine	Approx. Power	Drivetrain	Notable trait
Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34, tuner scene)	RB26DETT I6 twin-turbo	~276 hp stock / 400–800+ tuned	AWD	Legendary tuning headroom
Nissan 350Z (Nismo)	VQ35DE V6	~287–300 hp	RWD	Balanced chassis, aftermarket
Toyota Supra (MK4, tuner scene)	2JZ-GTE I6 twin-turbo	~276 hp stock / 400–1000+ tuned	RWD	Iconic strong engine
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX	4G63 I4 turbo	~286–295 hp	AWD	Rally-derived handling
Subaru Impreza WRX STI	EJ257 boxer turbo	~300 hp	AWD	DCCD, symmetric AWD
Honda S2000 (AP2)	F20C/F22C I4 NA	~240–247 hp	RWD	High-revving engine
Mazda RX-8 (Spirit R)	Renesis 13B rotary	~232–250 hp	RWD	Rotary uniqueness
Lexus IS 350 / IS-F	2GR-FSE V6 / emerging V8	~306 hp (IS350)	RWD/FR	Luxury + sport focus

Engineering highlights and tech trends in 2006

AWD systems matured: Active differentials (ACD, DCCD, ATTESA variants) offered adjustable torque split and improved handling.
Strong inline-6 and robust turbocharged 4-cyl engines dominated tuning scenes due to durable bottom ends (2JZ, RB26, 4G63).
Electronics began to blend with mechanical setups: traction control, refined ABS, and engine management systems gave tuners more precise control.
Lightweight and chassis balance mattered: Honda’s S2000 and Mazda’s RX-8 emphasized natural handling and driver feedback rather than sheer horsepower.

Ownership & tuning culture in 2006

2006 was heavily influenced by the aftermarket: many of the most talked-about “SS” performances were not factory spec but modified versions — large turbos, cams, ECU tunes, forged internals. JDM imports, U.S. tuner magazines, and drifting/motorsport exposure fueled demand for these platforms.

Why these cars still matter

They represent a golden era where mechanical robustness met accessible tuning.
Their driving experiences — high-revving engines, analog steering, and raw feedback — contrast with many modern, heavily assisted cars.
Many models became collector items and foundations for motorsport and media (video games, films).

Buying considerations in 2025 (brief)

Check maintenance and modification history; turbo cars and rotaries often show wear from aggressive tuning.
Prioritize cars with documented service, stock or well-built modifications, and inspected engine internals for high-mileage tuned examples.
Expect higher prices for clean examples of Supra Mk4, R34 GT-R, Evo IX, and early IS-Fs due to collector interest.

Final note

2006’s Japanese “SS” scene combined factory performance with an energetic aftermarket that pushed limits. Whether as stock performers like the S2000 and STI or as heavily modified legends like the Supra and R34, these cars helped shape modern performance culture and remain cherished by enthusiasts.