These two are, most probably, the most important concepts of the 2001 Tokyo Motorshow. The Toyota FXS and Honda Dualnote show the way forward for high perfromance
FantasyCars:
Toyota should really give themselves a pat on
the back for this: the smooth, seamless curves of the FXS (Future Experimental Sports) combined with a rigid chassis and a powerful engine make for a very interesting sports car,
and one far different from the insectoid MR2.
The 4.3-litre V8 of the FXS produces 300 horsepower, although Toyota engineers say that could be increased to 550, and is coupled to a six-speed manual transmission.
The rigid monocoque chassis has more than its fair share of goodies: 50/50 weigh distribution (with a curb weight of under 2900lb), all new double wishbone suspension all-round and
245/40R18 tires in front matched by 285/35R18s in the back.
As long as the snow plow front end goes, we have no objections if this is the future of Toyota sports cars.
And this is another gas-electric hybrid from Honda - no big deal, right? This Honda is no
looker, either. Yet under its skin, this car manages to rewrite the rules of personal transportation: the DualNote is an environmentally friendly supercar!
With IMA (Integrated Motor Assist), the
DualNote's rear wheels are driven by a 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 while two additional electric motors work the front wheels, for a combined 400 horsepower! ATTS, the Active Torque Transfer System also found on
the Prelude and VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) keep all the horses in check and provide great handling. The engine is set amid-ships and there are a total of four doors for added convenience.
As for planet preservation, the DualNote should get about 42mpg. Forget apocalyptic predictions and boring hybrids, Honda says we can have it all. The future of FantasyCars is looking sunny.
