The times have certainly changed in the automotive world over the lifespan of PASMAG. Trends and styles have come and gone, with some of them sticking around for good, and others resurfacing in cycles. Those in our audience old enough to remember the haydays of the '90s and early 2000s are sure to know exactly what we mean. And while we may look down on some style eras with hindsight, it's important to remember that many of these modifications and styles we consider to be extreme or "too much" paved the way for a lot of the aftermarket automotive world we know and love today.
Throwbacks From Previous Years:
5 Vehicles from PASMAG in 2002
5 Vehicles from PASMAG in 2003
5 MORE Vehicles from PASMAG in 2003
5 Vehicles from PASMAG in 2004
5 MORE Vehicles from PASMAG in 2004
5 Vehicles from PASMAG in 2005
5 MORE Vehicles from PASMAG in 2005
5 Vehicles from PASMAG in 2006
5 MORE Vehicles from PASMAG in 2006
As part of this ongoing series, we wanted to take some opportunities to dig into the PASMAG archives - all 25 years of it - as part of our 25th anniversary celebrations, and isolate certain eras to appreciate, evaluate, or even reminisce. This week, we're looking at the year 2007 in all its glory.
1. KamiSpeed Subaru WRX STi
By 2007, lots of enthusiasts started embracing the "less is more" philosophy to modifying their cars. This KamiSpeed sponsored WRX STi wearing a killer Varis kit and some aggressive aero managed to keep it timeless by refraining from going overboard. The Advan RG wheels are an awesome touch when it comes to keeping this STi looking period correct and ready for the track. This is a vehicle that could look at home at the track or a car show today.
2. MTX Audio Chevy Cobalt
Around this era, Chevrolet's Cobalt platform gained some popularity among the import tuning crowd, thanks to it's unique compact style and ample performance. This MTX Audio build went all out with aero, painted graphics, and of course - a full blown audio install from front to back. While a few elements of this one look dated when we look back, it's hard not to admire the level of effort that went into this.
3. Masaya Nishino's VIP Infiniti Q45
This Infiniti Q45 was a refreshingly simple take on early 2000s VIP styling. What stands out as a subtle flex is the modified front bumper that incorporates some great looking additional lights. Another surprising touch is the incorporation of Brabus wheels, typicaly adorning some six-figure Mercedes. We also appreciate the nod to the Nissan Gloria or Cedric with the "JP Y33" license plate.
4. Dan Greenbank's R33.4 Skyline
When was the last time you saw an R33 Skyline with the R34 front conversion? This feature was one of the most exciting of the time - what says excitement better than glittery paint and vertical doors? We would love to see more tastefully done front end conversions again.
5. LL TEK Audi TT
The Audi TT was popular among some enthusiasts for a short while in the early 2000s, largely thanks to its appearance in Need For Speed Underground 2 as one of the better cars you could use for races early on. Judging by the body kit and vertical doors, it's hard to imagine this one from LL TEK was inspired by anything else.