Vintage Japanese Cars Gathered at Marina Green
The Japanese Classic Car Show displayed restored imports in late September.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Car Culture
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Classic car enthusiasts brought their restored vintage imports to Marina Green last month for the Japanese Classic Car Show. The gathering showcased decades of design and performance engineering from Japan.
Why it matters
The show highlights the enduring local interest in Japanese automotive history and the community effort required to restore these vehicles. It remains a focal point for Bay Area gearheads who prioritize preservation and custom performance.
Chris Forsberg purchased his 1975 Datsun 280Z for $4,000 in 2014. The vehicle later won Best of Show at the Super Street SEMA Awards after undergoing a full engine rebuild.
The players
Chris Forsberg
Professional driver and owner of a highly decorated 1975 Datsun 280Z.
Nissan
The automotive manufacturer that revealed the Z Kaze concept at ZCON.
The details
Owners displayed custom and restored vehicles, ranging from daily drivers to award-winning builds. Notable highlights included a 1991 Nissan Figaro that took home best presentation honors. Nissan also used the event's orbit, ZCON, to pull back the curtain on its new Z Kaze concept, which is slated to appear next at SEMA.
Timeline
1963–1986: Production years of the Toyota FJ45 Pickup.
2014: Chris Forsberg purchased his 280Z.
2016: Forsberg rebuilt his car for the SEMA show.
Late September 2026: The Japanese Classic Car Show took place at Marina Green.
Across the Bay
The Z Kaze concept reveal follows the precedent set by major manufacturers using local enthusiast gatherings to build hype before the SEMA Show. This event confirms the Bay Area remains a key stop for debuting concepts alongside legacy builds.
Residents in the Marina can expect temporary parking and traffic impacts whenever major automotive exhibitions occupy the green. Keep an eye on event calendars if you plan to navigate the neighborhood during future displays.
The takeaway
The show serves as a reminder that local car culture thrives on the meticulous restoration of everyday classics. Watch for upcoming announcements regarding where the Z Kaze concept will be displayed after its SEMA debut.
Further reading
You can find more coverage of local automotive gatherings and restoration projects in our Car Culture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Autoweek.
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