Van Racing Is Alive And Well… In Japan

The Japanese obviously lead us in more ways than one. Not only do they make some amazing vehicles, electronics, and the like, but they seem to understand Americana better than we do. While we slap coffee can mufflers to an underpowered Civic LX, the Japanese are taking the much maligned Dodge Ram van and its 318ci motor to new levels of performance. Forget the DVD player and waterbed accessories. Brembo brakes and slap-shift kit, anyone? After owning two different Ram vans from this same era I admit they are fairly gutless in stock trim (emission laws have a downside) and pale in comparison to the styling of the 1960’s-1970’s era, but there is something satisfying about road tripping in a van. It has enough space for me and my stuff without all the craziness of a full-on RV.

Check out this video of what they are up to in Japan. The only thing these Ram’s are hauling is the mail…

Johnny Killmore

Johnny Killmore is a Formula sidecar and motorcycle racer who lives in the Bay Area of California. Fascinated at a young age by machines, Johnny is most comfortable at race tracks, garages, or far away places astride a motorcycle. Having cultivated a life revolving around speed, racing is a natural extension of that. Johnny is also a great story teller so it follows naturally that he would share his adventures and report on the adventures of others. Having formally studied journalism, art, and agriculture, Johnny uses the visual and literary arts to bring to life the challenges, risks, and rewards of living a life at speed.