The history of modifying cars started in the 1950's in Southern California and morphed itself ever since. In the 1980's, Mexicans did their own style in their mini-truck scene. In the 1990's, the Japanese started the "import scene" and it spread throughout southern California and throughout the world. Recently, Europeans have started modifying their cars also. And it is quickly becoming mainstream.
Automanufacturers have started producing their own racing line of cars, such as the Saturn Ion Redline, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Dodge Neon SRT 4, Ford Focus SVT, Mazdaspeed Protege, Subaru WRX, Toyota Corolla XRS, Chevy Cobalt SS and the most powerful stock 4 cylinder, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
2002 Nissan Sentra SE-R (Gold Badge Edition)
Fortunately, there has been a new job market focused on aftermarket performance parts. Drivers get a thrill to see performance and handling improvement which makes cars more fun to drive.
The bad thing is, drivers are more encouraged to have road rage and have illegal street races. Some people argue that there are lots of deaths... I don't see it as a problem. It's not in the news everyday that somebody dies in a street racing accident. More people die from lung cancer. It just means that more police can write tickets. In turn those tickets, will go back to the community, schools, roads, etc... Is the import scene a threat? I say no.
Do I see the import scene going away? No. It's here to stay. May be improved as time changes and more technological advancements come out. It is something that creates jobs and boosts economy. It keeps kids out of serious trouble. It is fun and people take pride in their cars.
The history of import car culture:
http://www.asian-nation.org/import-racing.shtml
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