SS Performance Picks: Top Japanese Cars of 2006

2006 Japan Car Lineup: SS Models Ranked

Overview

The 2006 Japanese car market delivered a blend of performance, refinement, and technological progress. This ranking focuses on SS (sport/special) models—cars tuned for higher performance, sharper handling, and stronger visual presence. Rankings consider engine output, chassis dynamics, design, driver engagement, and lasting impact.

1. Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II (R34) — Legacy icon

• Why it ranks: The R34 GT-R’s combination of the RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six, advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive, and Super-HICAS steering made it a benchmark for performance in the era.
• Performance: ~280–330 hp (tuned examples higher), legendary tuning potential.
• Driving character: Precise, powerful, and electronically sophisticated.
• Notable: Strong motorsport pedigree and cultural impact.

2. Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GD) — Rally-bred performer

• Why it ranks: The 2006 WRX STI carried Subaru’s rally DNA into a usable road car with excellent balance and mechanical grip.
• Performance: 300+ hp in some trims; potent turbocharged flat-four.
• Driving character: Sharp handling, excellent mid-corner balance, engaging feedback.
• Notable: Iconic hood scoop and aggressive chassis tuning.

3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX — Raw, focused chassis

• Why it ranks: The Evo IX refined Mitsubishi’s high-performance recipe with improved turbo response and sharper electronics.
• Performance: ~286–300 hp (Japanese-market figures), advanced AWD with Active Yaw Control.
• Driving character: Intense, direct, very capable on both road and track.
• Notable: Fierce rivalry with the WRX STI shaped a golden era for Japanese performance sedans.

4. Honda NSX Type S-Zero — Lightweight precision

• Why it ranks: A track-focused NSX variant emphasizing weight reduction, stiffer suspension, and sharper steering.
• Performance: Naturally aspirated V6 with high-revving character; ~280–300 hp depending on spec.
• Driving character: Superb chassis balance, precise feedback, superbly driver-focused.
• Notable: Represents Honda’s engineering purity and mid-engine exotic reliability.

5. Mazda RX-8 Spirit R — Rotary refinement

• Why it ranks: The RX-8 Spirit R was the swan song for Mazda’s rotary-sport ethos, offering improved suspension, tuning, and exclusivity.
• Performance: 232–247 hp in some markets; aggressive redline and unique power delivery.
• Driving character: Agile, high-revving, rewarding with its unique engine note and balance.
• Notable: Final special editions before rotary production pauses.

6. Toyota Altezza RS200 Z (Lexus IS in some markets) — Balanced sport sedan

• Why it ranks: The Altezza/IS RS200 blended daily drivability with responsive handling and sporty aesthetics.
• Performance: 200–220 hp from naturally aspirated inline-fours or V6s in different trims.
• Driving character: Composed chassis, communicative steering, comfortable ride.
• Notable: Helped Toyota compete with European sports sedans in refinement.

7. Nissan Fairlady Z (Z33) 350Z — Affordable sports coupe

• Why it ranks: The 350Z offered strong V6 performance, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a driver-focused cockpit.
• Performance: 300–312 hp depending on trim.
• Driving character: Torque-rich, balanced, and excellent value for pure driving enjoyment.
• Notable: Continued Nissan’s Z-car legacy with accessible performance.

8. Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart Version-R — Hot hatch sharpness

• Why it ranks: A compact, front-wheel-drive hot hatch with performance tuning from Ralliart, offering nimble handling.
• Performance: ~150–180 hp depending on market and tuning.
• Driving character: Energetic, precise steering, fun in tight roads.
• Notable: Great pocket rocket with rally-derived tech.

9. Toyota Supra (A80 — late editions/limited) — Enduring legend

• Why it ranks: Although the original A80 Supra production was winding down earlier, limited and special editions retained legendary status through 2006 tuning and scene presence.
• Performance: Tunable 2JZ engines capable of massive power with mods.
• Driving character: Smooth straight-line speed and huge tuning potential.
• Notable: Cultural icon with massive aftermarket support.

10. Honda S2000 Type V — High-revving roadster

• Why it ranks: The S2000 combined an intoxicating high-revving engine with excellent chassis dynamics for pure driver enjoyment.
• Performance: 240–250 hp depending on market and year.
• Driving character: Sharp, communicative, and engaging with an open-top experience.
• Notable: Celebrated for its rev-happy VTEC engine and precise gearbox.

Ranking notes & methodology

• Criteria used: engine performance, chassis dynamics, driving engagement, technological features, and influence/legacy.
• Assumptions: Focused on Japanese-market SS models and performance trims available around 2006; some model years overlap and certain cars had regional variants.

Quick buying/taste guidance

• For tuners and straight-line speed: Nissan GT-R / Supra.
• For rally-style handling and all-weather capability: WRX STI or Lancer Evolution.
• For balanced daily sport with refinement: Lexus IS/Altezza or Fairlady Z.
• For pure driver involvement and exotic feel: Honda NSX or S2000.
• For unique engine character: Mazda RX-8.

If you want, I can expand any section into full model specs, used-market price trends for 2006 models, or a side-by-side comparison table.