2020 3rd Generation Tanaka Akuma revealed!
Come visit our booth to see the new Tanaka Akuma!
5 Likes
The Epitome of 90s Tanaka Luxury (The 5th Generaton Tanaka Aventus)
Tanaka Aventus 5.0 L shown
This is the 5th generation Tanaka Aventus, introduced in 1996. This was one of the longest wheelbase of Tanaka models on the 90s. Its only focus is luxury and it is one of the best selling Aventus generations. It is also one of the customer’s favorite car because of its very long wheelbase for its time, the Aventus was very roomy inside. It is up to par with its german rivals. For the first time, the Aventus is equipped with a hydropneumatic suspension system that makes this feel like riding on the cloud. This was also the first Aventus to be equipped with a V8 and a computer-controlled automatic transmission. It ended production in 2005 where it is replaced by the 6th generation Aventus.
Tanaka Aventus 5.0 G shown
This is the base version of the Aventus. The 5 litre V8 produces 313HP and 314lb-ft of torque. It has a luxury interior with luxury cassette player. The rims are 16 inches 5 spoke alloys wrapped around medium-compound tires.
Tanaka Aventus 5.0 L shown *
This 5.0 L was introduced in 1997 as part of Tanaka’s Personality Program (TTP). Here, customers can choose their paint finish, interior colour, interior trim pieces, choice of rims and etc. All the little details can be added like a customized door sills, colour of interior lights, colour of stiching and piping, etc. Even flag poles can be added. The interior is a hand-made interior by the workers of TPP and a luxury CD player. The rear seats are now 2 individual reclining captain seats instead of the bench seats of the 5.0 G. There is an in-built refrigerator that replaced the centre seat.
* This example shown in the picture above is equipped with a gloss black paint and two-tone rims. The interior is beige with an oak wood interior. The interior is not equipped with any piping options.
“Tanaka Aventus ‘Bippu’ style”
The 5th generation Aventus has appeared in many movies where the Yakuza gang is involved. Nowadays, used 5th generation Aventus are popular in the VIP stance scene. The most popular body kit is from “Emotion Body Kits” which is installed on this car. This one has an accuair air suspension sytem. Shown on this picture, it is on its lowest setting.
Reliability Issues
Unlike other Tanaka models of the 90s, the Aventus is quite unreliable. The engine is quite reliable, but the electricity parts of this car are not. The CD player, traction control and basically any other electrical parts of the Aventus are very problematic. That is why you should never buy the Aventus without any service history. Always bring it to any official Tanaka dealership or any Tanaka-approved dealership for a pre-purchase inspection.
7 Likes
The 70s Brown…
Tanaka Aventus 6.0 L shown
This is the 2nd generation Tanaka Aventus. It was in production from 1978-1980. Compared to the first generation (which has a wheelbase of around 2.8 meters), the 2nd generation has a longer wheelbase (around 3.1 meters). This made the car being more spacious, but also slower and heavier. Their original plan is to make their Inline 6 more powerful. However, they did something else.
The CL60MFI-A1 engine under the hood of the Tanaka Aventus 6.0 L
That’s right, it’s a V12. They glued 2 of their Inline 6 into a V-engine. At the time where people have small 4 cylinder engines in the fuel crisis, this Japanese company put a V12 into a large luxury car. With the V12, they made power easily. The 2nd generation Aventus made 235HP. It is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. This generation is more reliable than the previous one. The V12 is super smooth.
The only available trim level is the 6.0 L. The interior is made of luxury leather and pillows with loads of wood trimming and a luxury 8-track. The rims are 17-inch alloys. It can do 0-60mph in 9.19 seconds and has a top speed of 130mph (BECAUSE OF HOW MUCH OF A BRICK THIS IS!). Exclusive for the 2nd generation Aventus is a colour called Century Brown, which is the colour used on the pictures above.
The 2nd generation Aventus were used as a government car in Japan in the 70s. The Japanese emperor at the time owned this car. Unfortunately, this is a Japan-only car. It is not exported to any other countries. This is the only generation of the Aventus to use a V12.
I am very proud of this design. Let me know what you think? Is it 70s enough?
9 Likes
I like your 70´s style generally. ther are some little things that are not optimal, the sidebars seem to be one piece, so how do you open the doors?
I think the indicators on the side are too big, also the on the front, they are to long, but that´s my personal taste. 
The 4th Generation Tanaka X-Series (2010-2019)
Tanaka 450X shown
This is the 4th generation Tanaka X-Series. It was released in 2010 being the first X-Series powered by a V8, the Z-Series, instead of a turbocharged V6 from the previous generation. This newly-designed V8 was the basis for the engine used in the 2nd and 3rd generation Tanaka Akuma. The one in the X-Series were the naturally-aspirated versions. This generation has the longest wheelbase of any X-Series generations yet with a wheelbase of around 2.8 meters. This generation was also the first and probably last to use a lightened AHS steel chassis. To make it look beautiful, the designers has made the hood long with a smaller cabin than usual, which is why people complain about the tight space in the rear seats. The philosophy of the technology detox works well with the X-Series, making it a driver’s car even though it’s a GT. The design is a little bit ahead of its time thanks to its unique taillights. It is also the first generation to use LED running lights.
Tanaka 450X shown
This is the 450X, the base model. Equipped with the Z45DI-A1 unit producing 422HP and 325lb-ft of torque going through a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission for the first time, a mechanical LSD (this is the last generation to use them) and an active comfort suspension. It was RWD. The X-Series has a luxury interior combined with a luxury infotainment system. It can do 22.3mpg. The rims are 19-inch alloys wrapped around medium-compound tires. The 450X can accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds and can do 172mph flat-out.
Tanaka 450X S shown
This is the 450X S, the top-of-the-line model until 2017. The 450X S has a sportier suspension setup, slighly wider sport-compound tires and 20 inch alloy rims. It is also lower. The Z45DI-B1 unit produces 458HP and 339 lb-ft of torque. The springs are active sports. It can do 21mpg, accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds and has a top-speed of 175mph.
2015 Facelift
Tanaka 450X Facelift shown
A facelift for the X-Series occured in 2015. The facelifted versions have new headlights (the LED running lights can also be used a turn signals), new rims for both 450X and 450X S, a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, an electric LSD and slighly better all-round quality. But the biggest change of them all is the introduction of the AWD versions and a new trim, the 450X TR. Because of the new AWD system, the front tires of all 450X were thicker than the RWD models.
Tanaka 450X S Facelift shown
The 450X S has a bigger change. Not only are the rim designs new, but they are also now made of magnesium. The 450X S also have a more agressive diffuser to fit in with the more aggresive rims.
Tanaka 450X TR shown
In 2017, the 450X TR was released. It is a special edition only for 2017 and 2018. The 450X TR is based on the 450X S AWD. Only 300 of these are ever made. They only made so few of them because they did not want to damage the X-Series’ reputation of being a GT. The 450X TR were considered as supercars because of the supercar levels of performance. Tuned by Tanabe Racing, this version used the Z45D1-A1 Earthboost unit from the 2nd generation Tanaka Akuma which produces 585HP and 557 lb-ft of torque, has a sportier suspension setup, wider tires and fenders, 19-inch carbon-fibre rims, a new body kit, a wing, carbon-fibre trim pieces, removed rear seats, sports interior, launch control and more just to name a few. The X-Series is lighter than any of the facelifted models. The pre-facelift models are still lighter. The result is that 0-60mph happens in only 3 seconds flat and has a top-speed of 181mph.
ILLUSION…
Example: Tanaka 450X (pre-facelift) shown, equipped with 19-inch rims, looks like 18-inch
Did you know that the X-Series rims look smaller than they actually are?
The lip of the rims are made black to blend in with the tire. The reason behind this is because the size of the rims affect the looks of the car. Too large and the car looks weird. This design however stopped with the facelifted 450X with the new rims, but still continues with the 450X S and 450X TR. Because of its 20-inch rims and the new rim design (which has a very thin lip), they decided to make the whole lip black and leave the spokes untouched. This makes those 2 versions look very agressive.
7 Likes
Breaking News - Tanaka Motors Announces Bankruptcy!
Tanaka Model 5 shown
Tanaka Motors, a major Japanese car company, had announced bankruptcy. They will close all plants and free up thousands of people working there. As their new job, Tanaka bicycles are looking for more employees. The Tanaka bicycles have some history to the Tanaka Heavy Industries. With the Model 1 produced from 1962-1969, Model 2 from 1969-1979, Model 3 from 1980-1995, Model 4 from 1995-2006, and its current iteration, the model 5 from 2006-present. Tanaka Heavy Industries is looking to expand and had now started to making air-conditioning and TV’s. This sparks a new beginning in the future history, introducing the Tanaka Home Equipments.
April Fools Day!
7 Likes
The 3rd Generation Tanaka Aventis (1980-1985)
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 Turbo shown
The 3rd generation Tanaka Aventis was released. The car featured a very boxy 80s styling. This made the car look like the 80s, but the car has a lot of drag. Combined with the low power, the car has a very low top-speed. Its fuel economy is also not up to par with some other cars with the most economical version getting 21.4mpg and the thirstiest version getting 18.3mpg. Reliability was improved from the previous generations. This generation is most famous for its longitudinal front-wheel drive drivetrain in the sedan versions. This is the only rear-wheel drive generation other than the 1st generation. It was nicknamed “the block” because of its boxy shape.
Tanaka Aventis 1.8 B shown
This is the 1.8 B, the base model. It is equipped with the B18MPEFI-A1 unit (a 1.8 litre NA SOHC I4) making a mere 100HP going to the front wheels through a 4-speed manual transmission with an open differential. It has 13-inch steel rims, a semi-clad undertray, drum brakes on the rear, a standard interior with a basic 8-track and a hydraulic power steering. It can do 21.4mpg.
Tanaka Aventis 1.8 G shown
This is the 1.8 G. It has the same engine, same manual transmission (for the manual version), a 4-speed automatic transmission (for the automatic version), disk brakes in the rear, a standard 8-track and a variable hydraulic steering.
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 S shown
This is the 2.0 S, introduced in 1982. It is only available in a coupe form. It has a new 5-speed manual transmission, the same interior as the 1.8 G, same equipments as the 1.8 G, a sportier suspension setup, wider 14-inch alloy rims wrapped around sports-compound tires, a new body kit, the rear seats ripped out, mechanical LSD, and vented brakes. It also has the BA20MPEFI-A1 unit (2 litre DOHC NA I4) producing 139HP going to the rear wheels. Yes, it is now RWD. This version is often used by drifters and street racers and have appeared in some animes.
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 Turbo shown
This is the 2.0 Turbo, introduced in 1984. It is quite similar to the 2.0 S, but has a journal-bearing turbo on it. The BA20MPEFI-A1 T unit (2 litre DOHC tubocharged I4) producing 204HP. It has a 2.0 Turbo exclusive side skirts, a 2.0 Turbo exclusive hood (the hood scoop is on top of the turbo), and 14-inch magnesium mesh rims. Even with all this power, it only has a top-speed of 130mph. It can do 0-60mph in 7.14 seconds. Even with that problem and because the 2.0 Turbo is very affordable, a lot of college students still bought these. One thing they don’t like is the massive turbo lag due to having single journal-bearing turbo.
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 Turbo X shown
This is the 2.0 Turbo X, the absolute pinnacle of the 3rd generation Aventis. It was released in 1985 and only 500 are ever built. Tanaka put every single technology from their Group B rally experience into the Turbo X. It is standard with AWD. Most of the turbo lag is now fixed with a single ball-bearing turbo. This version also bring new a 3-way high-flow catalytic converter, which makes this engine (this version is the BA20MPEFI-A2 T) more powerful (now making 228HP). It has vents on the bumpers and side skirts. It also has a new fully-clad undertray, shorter gear ratios for better acceleration, a standard cassette player and better aerodynamics. The result of all of that improvement is 0-60mph in 6.66 seconds and a top-speed of 132mph.
6 Likes
2nd Generation Tanaka Atlantis (2010-2018)
Tanaka Atlantis 3.0 T used as an unmarked police car in the anime ‘Detective Conan’
The 2nd generation Tanaka Atlantis was released in 2010 to replace the very outdated 1st generation Atlantis. This is currently the best-selling generation with 3,162,693 cars sold worldwide from the 8 years of production. This was the first ever Atlantis to feature a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as Tanaka wanted to put the EarthBoost technology to more and more models. This was also the last generation of the Atlantis to use a multi-point fuel injection.
Pre-facelift (2010-2014)
Tanaka Atlantis 2.0 B shown
The 2.0 B is the base version. It is only available with the FE20MPEFI-A2 EarthBoost unit producing 166HP. It has a 5-speed manual transmission, viscous LSD, 17-inch steel rims and standard interior with a standard CD player. It can do 34.8mpg.
Tanaka Atlantis 2.0 G shown
The G versions can be either equipped with the same Inline-4 engine as the 2.0 B or the TC30MPEFI-A1 V6 engine (the smaller version of the T-Series engines found in the 7th generation Aventus) that produces 207HP. The changes are having a 7-speed advanced automatic transmission, a sunroof and 18-inch alloy rims. A way to differentiate a V6 version from an Inline 4 version is to look at the back. The I4 versions have a double exhaust while the V6 has 2 seperate exhaust on the left and right side of the rear of the car.
Tanaka Atlantis 3.0 L shown
The L versions are just G versions but with a premium SatNav system.
Facelift (2015-2018)
Tanaka 3.0 G Facelift shown
The 2015 facelift gives the Atlantis a new LED headlight unit, standard and premium infotainment system (for the B and G, and L versions consecutively), parking cameras as standard and panoramic sunroof as standard (only for the G and L versions) with the roof painted black to blend in. The 4 cylinder versions of the Atlantis had a completely new engine. The J-Series engines use in the 7th generation Aventis is also used in the Atlantis (the Atlantis version is the J20MPEFI-C1 EarthBoost) and now makes 204HP, making it more powerful, but also more economical. The V6 engines are also more powerful, now making 215HP. AWD were also optional. However, the facelift brought a new trim, the 3.0 T.
Tanaka 3.0 T shown
The 3.0 T was famous for being a sleeper. The only giveaway that this Atlantis is different from the other Atlantis is the intercooler behind the lower grill, the ducktail spoiler on the trunk, the slightly different body kit and the alloy rims which by the way, are optional for the G and L versions, only that this one is gray. The tires are wider and are now medium compound. The car sits lower and the suspension is slighly stiffer. But the biggest change is the engine. The engine is now twin-turbocharged as you can probably see from the intercooler. The TC30MPEFI-A2 EarthBoost unit now makes 417HP with only 91 RON pump gas. This engine was the first V6 engine to have a flex-fuel management. AWD is optional. The interior is just standard leather with standard infotainment system Safety equipments are reduced to standard 10s to reduce weight. For the FWD version, it can do 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 189mph. As for the AWD version, it can do 0-60mph in 5.95 seconds and has a top speed of 181mph. But just because of all of this, doesn’t mean that this car is a sports car. In fact, it is just a stupidly fast midsize sedan. It cannot corner as good as sports cars and it is very bloated. However, the 3.0 T was also famous partly because it was featured in the anime ‘Detective Conan’ and several Asian detective movies. The 3.0 T was often internationally known as the detective’s car.
Tanaka Atlantis 3.0 T AWD shown with the S-Package
The S-Package was introduced in 2016 because car journalists were dissapointed that the normal 3.0 T cannot compete with real midsize sports sedans in terms of cornering ability. Tanaka dealed with that by adding 19-inch magnesium rims wrapped around sport compound tires, making it only 4 seats, a fully clad undertray, mechanical LSD, 7-speed DCT, carbon ceramic brakes and a sportier suspension setup. The engine was left untouched. The result, 0-60mph happens in 4.9 seconds and the top speed is 189mph and it now has a way better handling. It can do 1.10 g’s. But the package costs an approximate extra of $9000 and it is only available for the AWD version of the 3.0 T. This however, made the journalists happier as they can now have a sleeper can destroy sports cars both at the straight line and in corners.
7 Likes
2nd Generation Tanaka Osaka (2015-Present)
Tanaka Osaka 2.0 G shown
This is the 2nd generation Osaka, introduced in 2015 to replace the outdated 1st generation. This is the 1st Osaka to ever feature a multi-link rear suspension, making it quite comfortable, the first Osaka to even have LEDs, let alone they are standard and the first Osaka to receive the 2.0 Active trim (making this version a sub-compact crossover). Tanaka wanted to push the EarthBoost technology worldwide. All versions of the Tanaka Osaka in all countries sold in have the EarthBost technology to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Tanaka Osaka 2.0 B shown
This is the 2.0 B, the base model. It is equipped with the J20MPEFI-A1 EarthBoost unit producing 160HP and 174 lb-ft of torque. It is FWD. It has a 7-speed advanced automatic transmission and a viscous LSD as standard. The rims are 16-inch steel rims with a hudcap on it wrapped around hard long-life compound tires. The interior are standard cloth with a basic infotainment screen on it. Every Osaka comes with all the latest safety technology except for autopilot, some of these features are not available in other countries like the Middle East and SouthEast Asia. It can do 41.5mpg.
Tanaka Osaka 2.0 G shown
This is the 2.0 G, the mid-range version. The changes for this version are standard infotainment system, 17-inch alloy rims and a fully-clad undertray. This can do 41.3mpg.
Tanaka Osaka 2.0 S shown
This is the 2.0 S, the sportiest version currently. It has a new body kit, sportier suspension, The J20MPEFI-B1 EarthBoost unit producing 171HP and 179 lb-ft of torque, vented brakes, a 6-speed manual transmission, a mechanical LSD and a wider sport compound tires. The 2.0 S was said to be quite fun around the corners from journalists. There is however an even sportier trim coming soon…
Tanaka Osaka 2.0 Active shown
If you don’t need sporty, the 2.0 Active is for you. It is now a crossover instead of a normal hatchback. It has a more rugged look to it. The market trend forces Tanaka to release this car, it was sold from 2016 until now and it is the one of the best-selling Tanaka model ever. it has an AWD system with a mechanical LSD, thicker tires and a higher suspension to improve its off-roading capability. The 2.0 Active was advertised for people who wants to go basically everywhere and the car has its capability to literally go off-road, unlike some of its competitors who just makes their cars look more rugged.
Sales Figures
The Tanaka Osaka has been a hit to the world. Majority of its sales comes from Europe and Asia. 1.6 million cars were sold in Europe, 2.5 million sold in Asia, 1.1 million sold in Australia (63% of its sales comes from the 2.0 Active), 1.2 million sold in the USA (the only version available in there is the 2.0 Active). The Osaka proved to be very popular. With the crossover craze skyrocketing, the 2.0 Active sales are also skyrocketing
12 Likes
Woah, I’d just like to say that the Osaka really is one of the most realistic looking cars i’ve seen in this thread and perhaps even the entire forum. The front lights look very nicely detailed and the custom “floating roof” design you’ve made works really well!
Really, do keep it up please, can’t wait to see more!
2 Likes
2 New Releases in 2 Auto Shows!
Take a look at the 2020 Tanaka Aventus EV in the 2019 Auto Shanghai.
Take a look at the 2020 Tanaka Okanawa in the 2019 New York Auto Show.
2 Likes
The 4th Generation Tanaka Aventis (1995-2005)
The first car of many teenagers around the world, a Tanaka Aventis 2.0 S
The 5th generation Tanaka Aventis released in 1995 to replace the old 4th generation Aventis. When the car first hit the market, it was an instant success. It was very affordable and “quite-ish” reliable, perfect for a teenager’s first car. This was the first Aventis hatchback ever. People loved it because it is more spacious than previus generations because of being a hatchback. A new engine was also developed for the Aventis, the H-Series. It was made to replace the old and underpowered B-Series. This generation was also praised for having a very good fuel economy. Because Tanaka ditched the boxy styling and make the car look blobby, the car is now more slippery in the air.
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 B shown
This is the 2.0 B, the base model. The H20MPEFI-A1 unit produces 109HP. It has 14-inch steel rims wrapped around hard long-life tires, a standard cloth interior with a basic cassette player, a hydraulic power steering, a 5-speed manual transmission, a viscous LSD, solid disk brakes and a semi-clad undertray. It can do 31.2mpg and weighs only 1085kg.
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 G shown
This is the 2.0 G, an improved version of the 2.0 B. The changes are 15-inch alloy rims, a 4-speed automatic transmission for the automatic version and a standard cassette player. It can do 30.1mpg (for the manual version) and 28.3mpg (for the automatic version) and weighs only 1123kg (for the manual version) and 1128kg (for the automatic version).
Tanaka Aventis 2.0 S shown
This is the 2.0 S, the sporty version of the Aventis. The H20MPEFI-B1 unit produces 135HP. The biggest difference is that it swtiched to a 2-door hatchback. The rear seats are now seperated into two, not a bench rear seat. This version is the most popular as it is only slighly more expensive than the 2.0 B, but cheaper than the 2.0 G. There is only a 5-speed manual transmission available. It has 16-inch alloy rims wrapped around sports compound tires, a rear spoiler, vented disk brakes, a mechanical LSD and a lowered and sportier suspension. It can do 29mpg. 0-60mph happens in 7.99 seconds and has a top speed of 128mph. The 2.0 S were a tuner’s dream as the car was very modifiable.
This is the 2.0 TR, the ultimate version of the 5th generation Aventis. It was released in 1997 as the third model to receive the TR treatment. The 2.0 TR has an exclusive new engine from Tanabe Racing themseleves, the K20MPEFI-A1, which produces 168HP and can rev all the way up to 7500RPM. It has an even sportier suspension, a new body-kit, stripped out rear seats, a new rear wing, magnesium rims, wider arches, wider tires, a fully-clad undertray and reduced safety features. The result is 0-60mph in 6.43 seconds, can achieve 1.11g’s of cornering and a top speed of 138mph. The 2.0 TR only weighs about 965kg. The Aventis 2.0 TR was praised for its incredible handling by journalists, racing drivers and customers. Tanaka only made 5000 of these and these cars would go down as one of the great 90s Japanese cars.
7 Likes
I can imagine an Aventis 2.0 S or TR being used quite often in the Sunday Cup, FF Challenge or even the Clubman Cup in either of the first two Gran Turismo games… it just looks and feels so right for these lower-level events!
1 Like
Announcement from Tanaka Motors
Tanaka pulled the plug on the production of the 3rd generation Atlantis from the US and Europe. The few thousand cars made will be sold with heavy discounts to give way for a new inventory. The Tanaka Atlantis will only be available in Asia.
After 5 years of production of the 7th generation Aventis, Tanaka plans to introduce a new generation for 2020. It hopes to be sportier, bigger and better than the very popular 7th generation. Its new chassis supports both hybrid and electric applications. More information is not available yet.
A new midsize SUV from Tanaka will be revealed soon. It uses the shorter chassis of the recently revealed Okanawa fullsize SUV. An EV version of both the Okanawa and the midsize SUV will be available too.
The Brand-New 2020 Tanaka Ereceta
Tanaka Ereceta 2.0 G shown
New for the brand, the Tanaka Ereceta was introduced as a 7-seater premium midsize MPV only for Asia. Tanaka went brave for the styling of this car. It looks upscale, but also aggressive at the same time. These rims are used for the first time. The rims suit the car quite well. The Ereceta is based on the long-wheelbase version (2.8m) of the upcoming 8th generation Tanaka Aventis platform. The Ereceta and the upcoming Aventis will both be produced at Tanaka’s newly purchased Xi’an Plant for China for the first time.
Tanaka Ereceta 2.0 G shown
The 2.0 G is the base model, but also the most luxurious model. It has the J20DI-C1 EarthBoost unit producing 218HP and 201 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a 7-speed advanced automatic. The interior is made of premium leather with premium wood trim and a premium infotainment system. The rims are 17-inch alloys. An AWD system is optional. It can do 39.3mpg (for the FWD version) and 38mpg (for the AWD version). The starting price is $24701 (without mark-ups). The AWD system is an extra $1000.
Tanaka Ereceta 2.0 S shown
The 2.0 S is a sportier version of the 2.0 G. It has the J20DI-D1 EarthBoost unit producing 224HP and 234 lb-ft of torque. The AWD system is standard. The tires are switched to wider medium-compound tires. The suspension is slightly stiffer and sportier. The brakes are vented. It can do 33.9mpg. 0-60mph happens in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 143mph. The price is $26547 without mark-ups.
Tanaka Ereceta EV shown
The Ereceta EV is the electric version of the Ereceta. It uses 50kWh batteries for the front and back. It has a range of 205 miles. It weighs 2112kg. Everything else is the same as the 2.0 G. The price is $26844.
Tanaka hopes to see very good sales number for the Ereceta. The biggest market for these type of cars are China, Japan and Indonesia. The Ereceta will be on sale at late May for China and Japan, early June for Indonesia, and late July for the other Asian countries.
Sad News about Life...
Sad news: I will not post any new cars in the forum for approximately 2 weeks from now. I have an exam for 2 weeks and I need to study and prepare for the exam. So, I guess this will be my last post of a new car for 2 weeks.
6 Likes
Some Success Stories May Not Have a Smooth Start
Tanaka GCR-1 #8 Racecar shown
Tanaka entered the Group C racecar with this, the GCR-1, for 1990 until the end of 1992. The GCR-1 was engineered by Tanabe Racing, Tanaka’s new race team. Tanaka raced for one goal, to win a championship. The car was originaly designed for 1985, but the engineering took a heck of a long time. In 1990, the GCR-1 made its debut at several races. The GCR-1 was okay, but the thing is that the GCR-1 is very hard to drive with over 800HP going to the rear wheels with tons of turbo lag. The cars climbed through the leaderboard until finally in 1991, the #8 car was in podium position. By that time, the drivers knew how to control this beast. Then at 1992, the #8 car driven by Nakaya Akura won a race at Suzuka Circuit. The team was very proud of this achievement and this exact car was then stored away inside the Tanaka Museum in Tokyo after the 1993 Championship was cancelled.
Tanaka GCR-1 #5 Racecar shown
This is the #5 car. This particular car raced at the 24 hours of Le Mans. There were also the #2 and the #4 car at there. Three of them was used to race at Le Mans. In 1991, #4 car was totaled. Then in 1992, the #2 car was totaled as well, leaving only the #5 car, However, it finished in 3rd at the same year. The car didn’t do as well as Tanaka thought to be. They have plans to race it again for 1993, but the championship was cancelled. That’s the end of Tanaka’s Group C story.
Specs
This is the bare bones chassis of the Tanaka GCR-1. It is has a carbon-fibre tub with push-rod suspension for the front and rear of the car. The engine is a 3.5 litre twin-turbocharged V12 (called the ‘XX35MPEFI-A1 T/R’) producing 804HP and 607lb-ft of torque. However, it has tons of turbo lag. In fact, peak power is at 7800RPM and peak torque is at 6500RPM. That means that drivers must shift into a lower gear than usual, or constantly pressing the clutch. It is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission going to the rear wheels.
This is the High Downforce version, the one that the #8 car is. It featured an extreme body kit with all the complete lips, canards, splitters, diffuser and a massive rear wing. They are equipped with 20-inch magnesium rims wrapped aroung very T H I C C racing slicks (let’s just pretend because it is actually semi-slicks…). Brakes are 3 piston vented for the front and smaller 4 piston vented brakes for the rear. It has a fully-clad undertray. The interior has only 1 seat and no radio at all. The car also has no traction aids, just like what the rules said. It can do 1.34 g’s (on a 20m radius circle) and 1.61 g’s (on a 200m radius circle). It can do 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 196mph. This one is the most recognizable one.
This is the low downforce version. The wing is now smaller and the canards are now gone, therefore create less downforce and less drag. This version was used by the #5 car. This one is exclusively made for Le Mans. Other than that, it is the same as the High Downforce version. It can do 1.32g’s (on a 20m radius circle) and 1.30 g’s (on a 200m radius circle). It can do 0-60mph in 5 seconds flat and can do 229mph.
The effects of he GCR-1’s victory
The GCR-1’s victory have made an impact to car sales. Global car sales have increased by 5% and the company has increased their cool factor. The GCR-1 is one of the most significant car for Tanaka because most other Tanaka models in the 80s were boxy and boring, the GCR-1 stood out from all of them and lead Tanaka to become cool again. This has encouraged Tanaka to build cool cars in the 90s. The GCR-1 inspired the Tanaka TR2 Turbo, the 2nd gen Tanaka Trinity and Tanaka’s supercars of the 2000s until now. The GCR-1 is now a legend.
5 Likes
The Purchase of The Graham Bauer Company
Date: 20 January 2018
After 10 years of bankruptcy since 2008, Tanaka Heavy Industries bought Graham Bauer, a British-German mix based luxury car company. They injected $150,000,000 into the company in hopes of bringing the company back alive. Ever since Graham Bauer gone bankrupt in 2008, one designer from the company, Alex Hartmann, has already sketched a design of a car. After the company was bought, he brought the design to life. This also coincided with the development of the W-Series V12 engine from Tanaka. The chassis of the Graham Bauer was also new, which would inspire the chassis of the 2020 Tanaka Aventus.
Graham Bauer Clayton (Series 7)
Graham Bauer Clayton Executive Specification shown
This was the result, the Clayton. The first thing Graham Bauer wanted to resurrect was the Clayton. The car was introduced in mid-2018 and went on sale on quarter 3 of 2018. Journalists thought that the car was smooth, comfortable and quite fast. It has a top speed of slighly over 200mph. The interior is made of high-quality leather which was hand-stitched to perfection. It looked subtle, handsome, clean, minimalistic, understated and most importantly, looked German.
Under the skin is a glued aluminium monocoque chassis. The Tanaka Aventus chassis is quite similar too. It has double wishbone suspension for the front and multi-link in the back for maximum comfort. The body is made of full aluminium. The engine is the W65DI-A1 EarthBoost unit from Tanaka which produces 485HP and 766 lb-ft of torque smoothly and effortlessly.
Graham Bauer Clayton Cotemporary Specification shown
Buyers could choose between the ‘Executive’ or the ‘Cotemporary’ specification. For 2020, there will be a ‘Speed’ specification. But these are the options for now.
A ‘Tailored’ Graham Bauer Clayton Cotemperary Specification shown
In early 2019, the ‘Tailor’ program was born. The ‘Tailor’ program is like a personalization program. You can do anything you want in the car. You want your signature embroidered on you headrest, done. You want to have stiching matched to the colour of your exterior, done. You want to put the rarest wood in the world as your interior trim with diamond stripping, done. Real silver exterior trim, done. The ‘Spirit Wave (R)’ on the hood, done. Any details you want to add, the ‘Tailor’ program will do it for you with full craftsmanship.
This is a direct quote from the Graham Bauer Website:
“Our delivery experience is unique. Your car will be delivered to you right in front of where you want it to be. Whether if it is in front of your house, a park, anything that would surprise you. The service experience is also the same. Our people will pick up the car if your Graham Bauer reached the service period. We can do it whenever you want us to come pick it up. Just enjoy life.”
Everything about this company is new, and the Graham Bauer is heading to a bright future. The company is moving forward.
NOTE: All Graham Bauer models will be featured in this thread. Stay tuned for more.
9 Likes
Tanaka C30X (1975-1980)
1980 Tanaka C30X Turbo shown
This is the Tanaka C30X, the successor to the C20X and the predecessor of the 1st generation X-Series. Tanaka wanted to create a replacement for the C20X. This was a good oportunity because the new S-Series engine was used in the new 1st gen Aventus. Origninally, the engineers wanted to use the same engine from the C20X, a carburreted 2.8 litre SOHC Inline 6. However, when Tanaka planned to release it in 1973, the oil crisis began. Tanaka C30X engineers went back to the drawing board. When the S-Series Inline 6 engine was in developent, the engineers saw that the engine has a potential. Not only does it have a better fuel economy, but it is also DOHC and uses a mechanical fuel injection. This means that the engine is more reliable and can potentially make more power than the C20X’s SOHC carburreted Inline 6. Unfortunately, it was actually less powerful. The oil crisis meant that Tanaka needed to sacrifice power for fuel economy.
Then, there was the design. Tanaka didn’t spend that much on aerodynamics R&D. Earlier concepts shows that the C30X has a fixed headlight. However, the front was quite blocky. So, they decided to scratch that and put pop-up headlights. The advantage of this is that the headlights allow for a low-slung design. This is what made the C30X so memorable. This also meant that the low-slung design allows the car to have a lower drag coeficient.
Tanaka C30X S shown
This is the S trim, the base model. It is equipped with the S30MFI-B1 unit producing only 154HP and 155 lb-ft of torque. It has 15-inch rims, a 5-speed manual, an open diff, solid disk brakes on the front and rear, a fully clad undertray, a premium leather interior with a premium 8-track player, hydraulic power steering, and advanced 70s safety features. It can do 0-60mph in 8.35 seconds and has a top speed of 119mph.
Tanaka C30X L shown
This is the L trim, the luxurious model. It has the same equipment on the S except for the 8-track player, which is replaced by a luxury 8-track. This is the only trim level where buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. However, not many people bought the C30X L, especially in automatics, because the C30X was meant to be a sports car, not a GT.
Tanaka C30X Turbo shown
This is the C30X Turbo. It was released in 1980, which is also the last year the C30X is in production. This was Tanaka’s first turbocharged car and first turbocharged Inline 6 car. The changes from the normal S includes a turbo (the engine inside is the S30MFI-B1 T, it now makes 245HP and 260lb-ft of torque with journal bearing turbos), a louder exhaust setup, vented disk brakes, 15-inch mesh magnesium rims, wider tires (now a staggered setup), lighter seats made from aluminium, lowered suspension and sportier setup. It is able to do 0-60mph in 6.78 seconds and has a top speed of 143mph. The Turbos are highly sought after as only 850 Turbo versions were ever made.
This is one of the Tanaka C30X that went through Tanabe Racing’s upgrade program (note that this is an EU spec, hence the rear fog lights.)
In 1990 (10 years after the production of the C30X has stopped), owners of the C30X Turbo (needs to be the original owner who still have the original car), were invited by Tanabe Racing for an upgrade program. This upgrade program was to switch the original journal bearing turbo to a ball bearing turbo (which made the car make 258HP and 273lb-ft of torque), a longer gearing, and a full engine restoration. Only 169 of the 850 C30X Turbos went through this upgrade program. These 169 C30X Turbos were also given a certificate of approval from the chief engineer of Tanabe Racing, Wataru Tanabe, brake calipers painted red, the rims are now sandy gray and a stamp of approval inside the glove box. The result is that 0-60mph still happens in 6.78 seconds, but now has a top speed of 144mph. The numbers may not be special, but the rarity is what made it special. These ugraded C30X Turbos are now very highly valuable and sought-after with high mileage examples selling for $90000. They are truly special.
Pop Up Up'n Down Headlights By James Pumphrey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dm1J42mnKho
POP UP HEADLIGHTS!
12 Likes
The 1st Generation Tanaka X-Series (1985-1995)
Tanaka 300X Facelift shown
Since the death of the C30X, fans have been asking for another sports car. With the SFM4 and the Trinity filling that gap, Tanaka just needed a GT. In 1985, the 1st generation Tanaka X-Series. It was a 5-seater GT car. The front suspension was double wishbone with rear double wishbone suspension, the same setup as the SFM4. It uses the same Inline 6 as the 4th generation Tanaka Aventus. The car was beautifully designed. This is also the first Tanaka to have a sunroof, not even the Aventus had one at the time. The X-Series was the spiritual successor to the C30X.
Tanaka 300X shown
This is the 300X, the base model and the only model until 1989. It uses the F30MPEFI-B1 unit making 207HP and 197lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual (or an optional 4-speed automatic) to a mechanical LSD. It has 16-inch rims wrapped around quite thin sport-compound tires (180mm thick to be exact on both sides), 2 piston vented brakes, a semi-clad undertray, premium leather interior with a premium 8-track player, a variable hydraulic power steering, an ABS system and advanced 80s safety. A hydropneumatic suspension is optional. It can do 18.4mpg, 0-60mph in 7.14 seconds and has a top speed of 133mph (only for the manual version without the hydropneumatic suspension).
Tanaka 300X Turbo shown
This is the 300X Turbo, introduced in 1989. People complained about the 300X that it was very underpowered, especially for its weight (which is 1277kg) and its size. The Turbo was here to solve the problem. The engine is now turbocharged (now with the engine code, F30MPEFI-A1 T) which now makes 273HP and 277lb-ft of torque. The rear tires are now wider by 10mm and the suspension is lowered. Other than that, nothing has changed. It can do 23.2mpg (ironically…), 0-60mph in 6.18 seconds and has a top speed of 147mph. However, this spawned another problem, the 300X Turbo will fade its brakes from sporty driving.
1990 Facelift
Tanaka 300X Turbo Facelift shown
At 1990, the X-Series had a facelift. The changes are slightly different headlights, a different bumper, traction control and advanced 90s safety. The engine of the 300X and the turbo version is more powerful, with the 300X making 222HP and 197lb-ft of torque and the 300X Turbo making 274HP and 278lb-ft of torque. The 300X Turbo now has better brakes to stop the brake fade.
These are not the only changes. The facelift also introduced 2 more trims, the 300X L and the 300X TR.
Tanaka 300X L shown
This is the 300X L, the luxurious version. The 4-speed automatic is now standard. The tires are medium compound with a new rim design, the interior is now made of luxury leather and the hydropneumatic suspension is now standard.
Tanaka 300X TR shown
This is the 300X TR, the holy grail of the 1st generation X-Series. The same engine was shared from the Aventus TR, the F30MPEFI-B1 T, which makes 342HP and 298lb-ft of torque. It was only available in 5 colours: Pearl Blue, Metallic Blue, Red Mauve Mica, Tanabe Racing Blue and Tanabe Racing Midnight Purple (all dark colours). The TR may be available from 1990-1995, but only 50 were only made each year, totaling 250 300X TR’s. It has a longer final drive ratio, wider fenders, a different body kit, a big single exhaust, wider sports compound tires (for both front and rear), 17-inch darker Dark Metallic Gray magnesium rims, larger brakes, a fully-clad undertray, removed rear seats, a sports interior with aluminium seats, standard 80s safety, a lowered and sportier suspension. It can do 0-60mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 160mph. The TR versions are extremely sought after when compared to other versions.
13 Likes
The 300X must have been one of the sleekest-looking cars at launch, but it would have seemed dated towards the end of its lifespan as curves took over and angular wedge shapes (such as the 300X’s) fell out of favor. Even so, the TR would still have been competitive against its contemporaries.
I also remember the regular pre-facelift 300X being entered in CSR99 - it looked the part but was rejected for being too slow and boring to drive compared to some of its rivals. Still, it was quite comfortable, so at least it had some merit.