OPENERS Readers: 2014's Top 5 Cars
OPENERS CAR Selection 2014: Jun Nishikawa Edition
As 2014 draws to a close and the next year comes into view, we take a moment for a considered look back with "OPENERS Selection 2014." Among the many cars that debuted last year, these are the models that caught Jun Nishikawa's eye.
Text by NISHIKAWA Jun
Driven Purely by Desire
Ever since I was a child, I've adored supercars, and that passion led me straight into becoming an automotive writer. So, no matter how much the world's attention focuses on fuel efficiency, next-generation powertrains, convenient telematics, or safe autonomous driving, I could never dedicate my work solely to those areas. In fact, income from writing about eco-cars accounted for less than three percent of my earnings in 2014.
Of course, even supercars now utilize hybrid systems, and they incorporate fascinating cutting-edge technologies like aerodynamics and material mixes crucial for improving fuel economy. Some of these technologies will undoubtedly find their way into production cars, so it's important to learn about them now. However, even that is secondary.
Technology is merely a means to an end. What truly matters is the exhilaration and excitement felt behind the wheel, the thrill of the drive, and the elevated mood that lingers afterward. It may sound old-fashioned, but that has always been, and continues to be, the core of my passion. Unchanged through the years.
The five cars listed here are all relatively new models that I drove this year and found truly moving and genuinely superb. While some, like the Veyron, debuted quite some time ago, they still represent heroic presences that dared to emerge in the 21st century, an era dominated by eco-consciousness. Thanks to them, I haven't been unemployed!
In addition to supercars, 2014 was also a year I delved deeply into classic cars. My long-held dream came true when I participated in Italy's Mille Miglia, and I also attended numerous classic car events in Japan.
The global "classic car boom." Weekends across Japan now see gatherings and rallies. If asked why one would drive an old car today, I would answer that it's about achieving the fundamental pleasure—the desire—of "operating machinery to drive." Modern cars, in their pursuit of enhanced mobility, have gradually lost the "allure of driving" that stirs our primal instincts. Older cars, even everyday models, still possess this. That's why we endure the hardships and struggles, driven purely by the desire to drive.
The era when we can indulge in the luxury of "driving because I want to drive" won't last much longer. It's only natural, then, to want to enjoy it while we can. For 2015, I plan to continue my drives, focusing on both classics and supercars.
Jun Nishikawa's 2014 Selections
A moving work of art, the Pagani. From its manufacturing process to its performance, everything is art. This is also the philosophy of founder Horacio Pagani, a devoted admirer of Leonardo da Vinci. The V12 twin-turbo for the Huayra is supplied by long-time partner Mercedes-AMG, with internal components custom-designed. While its power output might seem ordinary by today's standards, its chassis, akin to a "beautiful" racing car, and its meticulously considered lightweight design result in a surprisingly Spartan driving experience. Yet, it also possesses the flexibility to endure the rigors of city driving. Driving the Huayra makes one feel like a wind god scattering jewels as they go.
Koenigsegg Agera R
A cutting-edge civilization on wheels. The Koenigsegg presents a striking contrast to the Pagani as a hypercar. Founder Christian von Koenigsegg is one of the era's foremost innovators. He develops nearly every part in-house, with the exception of the tires, and astonishingly, manufactures many of them within the company! Like Pagani, they are world-class in CFRP technology. What's most surprising when driving the "Agera R" is its unexpected flexibility. It navigates speed bumps with ease. Its ride is firm yet supple, offering a great sense of security. Then, press the accelerator, and it transforms into pure ferocity. Yet, its precise handling indicates an exceptionally well-engineered chassis and body. I drove it with abandon and was relieved to return it safely.
An aerodynamic monster. In a single phrase, that's the impression of this hypercar from the world's premier racing car constructor. The sensation of "cutting through the air" while driving is unlike any supercar I've experienced before. To put it simply, it's akin to the feeling of a Formula machine. Air flows precisely and densely around the body. While it's actually the body panels and undercarriage doing the cutting, the sensation is palpable. In essence, it uses air effectively to achieve speed. Consequently, the sense of velocity is minimal. Push the acceleration, and you'll find yourself at astonishing speeds. The fact that it can travel a considerable distance on electric power alone is also remarkable.
The world's fastest production car. When you start driving, it feels like maneuvering an incredibly powerful tank (albeit an exceptionally luxurious one), but step on the accelerator, and it unleashes an otherworldly acceleration that seems to obliterate everything else. You experience a sensation of all the blood in your body rushing to the back of your head, your back, and your hips. Your vision momentarily whites out. The sheer force of acceleration is unmatched by the Veyron. And the sound. The explosive, metallic, intake-and-exhaust symphony, like being pursued by a small fighter jet, floods the luxurious cabin from above. As with most modern cars, it can be driven gently for everyday use. On the street, it's like a supremely luxurious VW.
In terms of sheer presence, it was the standout of 2014. Its ability to capture and draw the attention of everyone it encountered rivaled that of Ferraris and Lamborghinis. It was, without a doubt, the car that attracted the most onlookers. Initially, I felt a bit self-conscious driving it, but that soon turned into pure pleasure. When I was waved at with smiles by individuals who appeared to be local yakuza in a bustling downtown area of a regional city, I even felt a sense of triumph. Despite its appearance, the driving feel is excellent. Utilizing the stability of the rear wheels, you can push it hard even on winding roads. Because the front is relatively light, you also feel a sense of freedom in controlling it. Truly, Mercedes-Benz takes even its playful creations seriously.
