#Japan #Sports Cars #Shinjuku #Option Magazine #Heisei Era

OPTION February 2026 Issue Release!

Special Feature: "Heisei Superstars Legends"
The highly anticipated February 2026 issue of OPTION magazine will hit the shelves on December 25, 2026. With its colorful 128 pages, it will explore the remarkable history of sports cars that thrived during the Heisei era (1989-2019) and their impact on the tuning culture still prevalent today.

Highlights of the Heisei Superstars Legends

The Heisei era witnessed the birth of numerous iconic sports cars, setting a global trend in modifications. These modifications not only became more intense but also evolved into a refined art form appreciated by enthusiasts worldwide. This issue captures the essence of these beloved vehicles, diving into the world of tuning and customization that has flourished in Japan. Renowned for their performance, classics like the second-generation GT-R, A80 Supra, and FD3S RX-7 exemplify the pinnacle of sports car engineering.

Our feature will dissect these legendary machines, taking you through their evolution and showcasing full-spec modifications that enhance both performance and aesthetics.

The Full-Spec Trinity

We pay homage to the full-spec triad—JZA80, BNR34, and FD3S. Beginning with the debut of the BNR32 in 1989, followed by the FD3S in 1991, and culminating with the JZA80 in 1993, these cars set the standard for performance tuning. We will delve into detailed modifications and enhancements that define their legacies, ensuring that they remain relevant in today's automotive landscape.

The Art of Simple Customization

Customization doesn't always mean extensive changes; sometimes, less is more. In this segment, we present two Heisei-era tuned sports cars that exemplify the charm of minimalism, demonstrating how strategic upgrades can grab attention without overwhelming the viewer.

Lancer Evolution Girls

The Lancer Evolution remains one of the most cherished AWD sports cars of the Heisei era, making waves in both street culture and motorsports. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on five female owners who have embraced the Lancer Evolution, sharing their stories and unique styles.

The Racer: Tsugio Matsuda's BCN R33 Rebuild

In a special feature, racer Tsugio Matsuda recounts his transition from professional racing to enhancing his personal vehicle, the BCN R33. This all-rounder project aims to make it street- and track-ready, starting with an emphasis on braking performance without compromising weight.

SEMA Show 2025 Recap

The SEMA Show in the U.S. stood out in 2025 with a vibrant display of Japanese cars. We cover the highlights, showcasing passionate builders and customizers who emphasized the timeless appeal of Japanese engineering, alongside incredible hot rods that caught everyone's eye.

Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Preview

As excitement mounts for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, we provide an exclusive sneak peek into the featured vehicles and booths not to miss. Our detailed layout and insights will guide you in planning your visit to this iconic event.

2026 Special Tuned Calendar

Don’t miss out on our exclusive 2026 Special Tuned Calendar, featuring stunning photos of tuned cars alongside generous memo spaces for practical use. Perfect for flaunting in any room, this calendar marries beauty with functionality.

With OPTION’s exploration into the world of Heisei's magnificent sports cars, readers can reconnect with the era’s vibrant spirit, embrace the cultures surrounding it, and be inspired to explore the evolving automotive landscape.

For details and purchase, visit San-ei Corporation.

Company Overview:
Founded over 70 years ago, San-ei Corporation specializes in automotive and racing magazines. Leveraging vast resources and networks within the industry, they have expanded into various genres such as sports and fashion. Today, they aim to elevate brand strength and deliver diverse content through printed and digital mediums.

Contact Information:
San-ei Corporation, 163-1126 Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
Official Website: San-ei Corporation