Nismo Type 380RS

Available in a limited run of 300 copies in the Japan domestic market, the Type 380RS will sell for around $44,000. That appears to be a modest price premium over the 2007 Nismo 350Z that is offered in the U.S. for $38,695.

Consider that the new Type 380RS starts with the Z-car's 306-horsepower DOHC 3.5-liter V6, kicks up the displacement to 3.8 liters and hikes output to 350 hp and torque to 293 pound-feet.

Nismo has done its usual superb job of tuning and fitting appropriate aerodynamic mods to the body. Under the skin are upgraded shocks, springs and stabilizer bars. Brembo disc brakes are fitted, as are Bridgestone Potenza RE01R performance tires (245/40R18 in front, 275/35R19 in the rear).

Inside, the Type 380RS features perforated leather on the steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake lever, plus drilled aluminum pedals, a unique gauge cluster and sport bucket seats trimmed in Alcantara and leather.