This is the 2002 Tommykaira ZZII, a unique Japanese mid-engined sports car that was designed by Noriyuki Nishida and first ever displayed during the 2002 Tokyo Auto Salon. The ZZII was constructed by Tommykaira (トミーカイラ), a Japanese manufacturer which was originally founded in 1986 as Tomita Yume Koujou (トミタ夢工場株式会社). Before the ZZII made its way into the world, Tommykaira initially introduced the ZZ, the result of two passionate designers working together to make their vision come to life, Yoshikazu Tomita and Kikuo Kaira. Beginning in 1991, the first prototype was completed by 1992, followed by a research and development center to be opened in 1993. Finally, the ZZ was revealed to the public on July 24th, 1995 at the Prince Hotel in Tokyo. Following a short production period from 1997 until March 1999, the ZZ project was put to an end, due to an update on safety standards at the time, with no exceptions even for small manufacturers. The ZZ’s designs were subsequently sold at auction to Breckland Technology Ltd., leading to the creation of the Leading Edge Car Company. From 2014 until 2021, Tommykaira introduced the second-generation of the ZZ, with the help of GLM Co. Ltd., a company from the national research university in Kyoto. This second-generation ZZ was introduced at the 2010 Tokyo Motor Show, followed by a further evolution shown at the Shorenin Monzeki Temple in 2013. The ZZII engine’s displacement was increased from 2.6L to 2.7L, alongside performance upgrades like forged pistons, re-profiled cams, and a new turbocharger. The car features a ZZ-derived aluminum chassis with full carbon fiber bodywork, redesigned with an oval-shaped tub for improved seating, integrated crumple zones for crash homologation, and aerodynamic elements like dual roof intakes forming a rear NACA duct to enhance intercooler airflow. Automotive dealer Autobacs bought the ZZII design and rebranded it as the ASL RS01.
How many made? 1
Engine: 2.7 L (2700 cc) RB26DETT twin-turbocharged I6
Debut: 2002 Tokyo Motor Show
Top Speed: n/a
0-60mph: n/a
Photo Credit: @tommykaira.official
Research: @rarecarsonly
2002 Tommykaira ZZII
20.05.2025
Tommykaira