Sora is a Japanese mid-sized manufacturer that specializes in high-performance variants of Kaizen models. Distinguished by their recognized status as an auto manufacturer with their own unique VIN identifier, they are well-integrated into Kaizen’s design, engineering, and manufacturing processes, and are the only company whose products are officially supported by Kaizen themselves. In addition, it is possible to custom-order a Sora from any Kaizen dealer.
Originally founded in 1950 as a repair shop and race car constructor by former aeronautical engineers, Kaizen models and engines were used as they were judged to have the best potential for motorsports applications. Using their expertise, engineers were able to apply a mechanical fuel-injection system derived from WWII aircraft engines to Kaizen’s single overhead-cam 3.0L inline 6, which would be their first breakthrough. Sora’s through engineering efforts impressed Kaizen leaders so much that the fuel-injection system became OEM equipment on select Kaizen models. Furthermore, the two manufacturers developed a very close relationship, with the result that any Kaizen rebuilt with only Sora parts would be supported by the full Kaizen warranty and could be serviced at any Kaizen dealer.
Over the years, Sora would gain a reputation as being Kaizen’s de-facto “advanced R&D” department. Many Kaizen innovations that had their origins in Sora included fuel injection, single and dual multivalve overhead-cam systems, turbocharging, continuously variable timing and lift, and emissions controls.
The main characteristic is a no-cost approach of balancing outright performance and daily usability. A good point of contrast is Kaizen’s in-house Victoria performance division, which emphasizes on-the-limit handling and a sporting, race-inspired driving feel. Sora models tend to be much more relaxed, prioritizing composure, comfort, and ease of use. For example, while a Kaizen Victoria model would use a high-revving naturally aspirated engine with very high specific output, a Sora would use a larger displacement, forced induction engine with greater flexibility in the rev range and torque at lower RPMs.
A Sora is built from a new, complete Kaizen that is shipped directly from the Kaizen assembly line. In a dedicated facility, it is stripped down and then rebuilt with Sora-specific components, including the powertrain. A significant part of this process, including engine building and interior work, is done by hand.
This means Soras are exponentially more exclusive than equivalent Kaizen models.
The Sora S6 Typhoon was the ultimate evolution of the K609 generation Kaizen Class Six executive sedan.
Based off the Kaizen SC24, the 240 hp 3.0L inline 6 would be tuned and then bored to 3.6L, and two IHI ball-bearing turbos with a controller that could vary boost pressure depending on engine and driving conditions were installed. At full boost, it churns out 420hp and 595 Nm of torque. A reinforced 5-speed manual with limited-slip differential was used, driving the rear wheels.
The self-leveling rear suspension, also used on high-end trims of the the Class Six, were used. Furthermore, the suspension was thoroughly retuned to ensure maximum control while balancing comfort.
On the exterior, Sora specific bumpers, badging, and the iconic “lucky 3” pinstriping were installed. Specific to this model were detailing on the front bumper signaling its twin-turbo powertrain.
Developed with cost-no-object R&D, it still became a top seller for the company despite it’s extraordinarily high purchase price and limited production, with 331 units produced over 3 years. More important, it debuted two engineering concepts which have proved to be critical in the modern day: continuously variable valve timing and turbocharging. In 1996, the Continuous Valve Control system debuted for the first time on a Kaizen. An evolution of the Sora system, it could also continuously vary valve lift. And in 2005, Sora’s expertise proved invaluable in the debut of a long-running series of turbocharged engines that have become legends in their own right.
In short, it can be argued that the Sora S6 Typhoon was the origin of the modern Kaizen, versatile, fast engineering masterpieces that can just about conquer any road with ease.
VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
PRICE (NEW)
$90,000
ENGINE TYPE
Auxilium 36S4R0 Sora
Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve I6, ALSI block and head, direct fuel injection, 90 AKI
Displacement
3.6L, 3595cc
Power
420 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque
370 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
5-speed manual
PERFORMANCE
Zero to 62 mph: 4.8 sec
Top speed: 205 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined: 24 US mpg
Also I’m impressed by the amount of tedious work it must’ve taken.