Motoring J Style: May 24, 2008 Solano County Fairgrounds, Vallejo, CA • 9:30AM-5PM Car Show Registration • Drift Registration • Vendor Registration • Swap Meet Registration

Some Background: A Note from Martin Swig

Some Background

            In 1969, I acquired the Datsun dealership in San Francisco.  Over the years, I took on other Japanese-brand franchises, including Toyota, Mazda, Isuzu, Suzuki and Subaru.

            Those early cars always surprised their owners with their longevity and absolute reliability. Consumers had given up on Detroit brands.  They were attracted by cars like the Datsun 510, 240Z, 1200, Toyota Corolla, Corona, Celica, Honda Civic CVCC & Accord, Mazda RX2, RX3, RX4 and RX7.  Once they had experienced Japanese car ownership, they didn’t go back.

            Now, when I see one of those early cars, I’m sentimental.  The search for good examples is hard, because the cars were so good that they tended to accumulate high mileages.  Good running 200,000-mile examples are common.  A recent Celica on eBay had 400,000 miles, and still looked and ran great.

            I’m pleased that my son David has decided to bring recognition to these fine cars, and I hope we can help you enjoy the Japanese collector car hobby.

Martin L. Swig
Long time Japanese New Car Dealer