Freedom Revving in a 1991 Suzuki Cappuccino: Embracing the Joy of Life’s Minor Modes
The Thrill of the Chase: How a Kei Car Addiction Took Over One Man’s Life
Meet Nick Jimenez, a self-proclaimed kei car aficionado, who can attest that collecting these tiny Japanese vehicles is more than just a hobby – it’s a full-blown addiction. And he’s not alone.
The Birth of a Passion
A few years ago, Nick’s streetwear business, Way Before the Fame, hit a snag due to global events. In need of a new creative outlet, he stumbled upon kei cars, a phenomenon growing in popularity in America. These tiny vehicles, like the 1996 Daihatsu Midget II, captivated him. "I was like, ‘These are kind of cool, but what am I gonna do with a two-seater pickup truck in New York City?’ But the more I thought about it, I was like, ‘You know what? I can get a right-hand drive car and feel like I’m in Japan for 5Gs.’"
The Collection Grows
From a Suzuki pickup truck to a van, a Jimny, and eventually, a Wagon R, Nick’s collection just kept expanding. But it wasn’t until he found a 1991 Suzuki Cappuccino in Hawaii and had it shipped to California that the real fun began. He restored it to its former glory, adding modifications like a Limited interior, coilovers, and a strut bar, just to name a few. And then, he hunted for more. "I try to get a new one every few months to enjoy and then resell," he says.
The Thrill of the Chase
So, what drives his passion for kei cars? For Nick, it’s the pure driving experience they offer and the reminder that life is fleeting. "We don’t take life too seriously," he says. "We’re all like-minded in a way. We don’t care if it’s not safe, it’s old. It just doesn’t make sense to own a kei car in America at all. But the people who do, to me, we’re on the same page. We have to understand that we could technically pass away any day from just driving a car like this on the daily basis."
The Community
Kei car enthusiasts share a common understanding – the risks and rewards are worth it. It’s a bond that transcends the driving experience, says Nick. "It’s like we’re all on the same page. We have to both understand that we could technically pass away any day from just driving a car like this on the daily basis." So, if you’re as passionate about kei cars as Nick is, join the journey and follow him on Instagram and YouTube.
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