Cars that SHOULD exist, but DON’T… a new S2000, S16, R36?
About this episode
Exploring the vehicles that enthusiasts wish manufacturers would revive or create, the hosts dive into dream cars like the Honda S2000 and the Nissan IDX. They discuss the missed opportunities in the automotive market, including the need for a new Miata platform and the challenges facing Nissan with the potential R36. The conversation highlights the balance between nostalgia and modern performance, touching on how manufacturers can innovate while respecting their legacy. The episode is filled with passionate opinions and insights on what the future of beloved models could look like.
What happened to the cars we actually want?
Are we witnessing the end of true enthusiast-focused cars?
In this episode of Behind the Wheel Podcast on the KONIG Wheels YouTube channel, we’re talking about the cars that absolutely should exist… but don’t.
- A modern Honda S2000.
- A true Nissan S16.
- A next-generation Nissan R36.
Enthusiasts have been asking for these cars for years — so what’s taking so long? And when automakers finally bring these icons back, will they stay true to their roots… or end up watered down like the recent Prelude revival?
We break down:
- Why a new S2000 feels inevitable — yet complicated
- Whether Nissan still has room for a proper Silvia successor (and what it would take to follow the legacy of the Nissan Silvia)
- What the future of the GT-R looks like after the long run of the Nissan GT-R
- How emissions, electrification, and global regulations are reshaping performance cars
- Whether nostalgia is helping or hurting modern car development
- Are we asking for cars that can’t exist anymore?
- Or are brands overthinking what enthusiasts really want?
Drop a comment and tell us:
What car deserves a comeback — and what can’t change when it returns?
2026 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved
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The post Cars that SHOULD exist, but DON’T… a new S2000, S16, R36? appeared first on Konig Wheels Behind The Wheel Podcast.
Honda Civic Type R
"...I see there's some YouTubers and some Instagram guys that are like getting rid of their Type Rs and then going over to the Prelude..."
The Honda Civic Type R is a fast and sporty version of the regular Honda Civic. It's designed for people who love to drive and want a car that performs well on the track.
The Honda Civic Type R is a high-performance version of the Honda Civic, known for its sporty handling and powerful turbocharged engine. It's popular among car enthusiasts for its track capabilities and aggressive styling.
Honda Prelude
"...going over to the Prelude probably because it's some sort of a program or a deal..."
The Honda Prelude is a sporty two-door car that Honda used to make. It's known for being fun to drive and has a loyal following among car fans.
The Honda Prelude is a discontinued sports coupe that was known for its innovative design and performance. It was popular in the 1980s and 1990s and is often remembered for its engaging driving experience.
Mugen
"I did see one that was lowered on Mugen MF10. So I had good wheels on it and lowered just didn't do it for me."
Mugen is a company that makes special parts and upgrades for Honda cars. They help make the cars faster and look better.
Mugen is a Japanese company that specializes in aftermarket parts and tuning for Honda vehicles. They are known for enhancing performance and aesthetics of Honda cars.
Honda NSX
"Do you think NSX, are you thinking like continuing of the S chassis?"
The Honda NSX is a high-performance sports car made by Honda. It's known for being fast and having a unique design, but it's also quite expensive and not very common.
The Honda NSX is a mid-engine sports car that was first introduced in 1990. It is known for its performance, handling, and use of advanced technology, making it a significant model in Honda's history.
Acura NSX
"...hink would have been the right car? Do you think NSX, are you thinking like continuing of the S chassi..."
The Acura NSX is a fast and fancy sports car that was first made a long time ago. It's special because it uses both a regular engine and electric power to go really fast and handle well.
The Acura NSX is a high-performance sports car that was first introduced in the late 1980s and is known for its innovative design and engineering. It combines a mid-engine layout with a hybrid powertrain in its latest iteration, making it significant in discussions about performance and technology in the automotive world.
Honda S2000
"I think a S2000 would be good. That'd be a good one. So now correct me if I'm wrong. The original one was the S600."
The Honda S2000 is a small sports car that seats two people. It was made to celebrate Honda's 50th birthday and is loved for how well it drives and its powerful engine.
The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster known for its high-revving engine and sporty handling. It was introduced to celebrate Honda's 50th anniversary and became popular for its performance and driving experience.
Honda S600
"The original one was the S600. That was the old one way back in the day. And then the S2000 was kind of the recapturing of that spirit."
The Honda S600 was a small sports car made by Honda in the 1960s. It was light and had a powerful engine, making it fun to drive.
The Honda S600 was one of Honda's early sports cars, produced in the 1960s. It featured a small, high-revving engine and was known for its lightweight design and sporty performance.
front engine rear wheel drive
"obviously convertible, incredible shifter, and then front engine rear wheel drive, kind of the classic setup, six-speed setup."
Front engine rear-wheel drive means the engine is in the front of the car and it sends power to the back wheels. This setup can help the car handle better, especially when driving fast.
Front engine rear-wheel drive (FR) is a vehicle layout where the engine is located at the front of the car and powers the rear wheels. This configuration is often associated with better weight distribution and handling characteristics, especially in sports cars.
Mazda MX-5 / Miata
"...er. I think early on, it was considered like this Miata fighter, but it kind of like made its own way, i..."
The Mazda MX-5, or Miata, is a small and fun convertible sports car that people love to drive. It's known for being light and easy to handle, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy driving.
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is a lightweight two-seat convertible sports car that has gained a cult following since its debut in the late 1980s. Its emphasis on driving enjoyment, affordability, and simplicity has made it a staple in the sports car community.
turbo
"you'd have to expect that it would be turbo. It wouldn't be an all-motor high-revving set."
A turbo is a part that helps engines produce more power by pushing extra air into them. This allows the engine to burn more fuel and run faster without using more gas.
A turbo, or turbocharger, is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and thus increasing power output. Modern engines often use turbocharging to enhance performance while maintaining fuel efficiency.
K20 engine
"I would assume that they would probably do the same engine, the K20, what is the A3, the current car."
The K20 is a type of engine made by Honda that is known for being powerful and able to spin quickly. It's used in several Honda cars.
The K20 engine is a series of four-cylinder engines produced by Honda, known for their high-revving capabilities and performance. It is commonly used in various Honda models, including the Civic Type R and the RSX.
facelift
"...they did the facelift back in what, 2019? I would say it was somewhere around there. But I still think that they need like a bigger step than just the facelift..."
A facelift is when a car gets a small update to its look and features, making it feel newer without completely changing it. It's like giving the car a fresh coat of paint and some new gadgets.
A facelift refers to a minor update or refresh of a car's design, often including changes to the exterior styling, interior features, and sometimes technology enhancements. This is typically done to keep the model competitive without a full redesign.
Scion Frs
"...and bring it back out again. But I feel like the FRS and the BRZ and the GT86 have kind of taken a lar..."
The Scion FR-S is a small sports car that is fun to drive and easy to handle. It's popular because it's affordable and has a sporty design.
The Scion FR-S, developed in collaboration with Subaru, is a lightweight sports coupe known for its balanced handling and rear-wheel-drive layout. It has been praised for its driving dynamics and affordability, appealing to a younger audience.
Subaru BRZ
"...the FRS and the BRZ and the GT86 have kind of taken a large chunk from what Mazda used to claim as their market..."
The Subaru BRZ is a sporty car that's similar to the Toyota 86. It's designed for people who love to drive and enjoy a car that feels light and responsive on the road.
The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports car that shares its platform with the Toyota 86. It features a similar lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it popular among driving enthusiasts for its agility and performance.
Toyota Gt86
"...the FRS and the BRZ and the GT86 have kind of taken a large chunk from what Mazda used to claim as their market..."
The Toyota 86 is a fun sports car that drives really well and is designed for people who enjoy driving. It's known for being light and easy to handle, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
The Toyota 86 is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its balanced handling and engaging driving experience. It was developed in collaboration with Subaru, which also produces a similar model called the BRZ.
Honda Civic
"...s. The same thing with the Honda world, like the Civic was always like four year spans and then they wou..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people use for everyday driving. It's popular because it's reliable, gets good gas mileage, and comes in different styles like sedans and hatchbacks.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been in production since the early 1970s and is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and versatility. It has evolved through multiple generations, often setting benchmarks in the compact car segment.
Nissan IDX
"...about these cars that we wish would have happened, the IDX, I don't know if you remember that little nizzle. They missed the ball so much."
The Nissan IDX was a proposed sports car that never made it to production. It was meant to be fun to drive and reminiscent of older Nissan models.
The Nissan IDX was a concept car that aimed to capture the spirit of classic Nissan sports cars. It was designed to be a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe that appealed to driving enthusiasts.
Nissan Sentra
"...ave had that same spark that you had with the old Sentras and the Pulsars and those cars where it had that..."
The Nissan Sentra is a small car that's easy to drive and good for getting around town. It's a popular choice because it's affordable and gets good gas mileage.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that has been a staple in Nissan's lineup since the early 1980s. Known for its affordability and practicality, it appeals to budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable transportation.
Nissan Pulsar
"... spark that you had with the old Sentras and the Pulsars and those cars where it had that. But at the end ..."
The Nissan Pulsar is a small car that's good for everyday driving. It's known for being practical and getting good gas mileage.
The Nissan Pulsar is a compact car that has been produced in various forms since the 1970s, known for its practicality and efficiency. It has been popular in different markets, though it has seen varying success in the U.S.
Nissan Titan
"And around that same time, you had the Titan Warrior concept, which was the big truck that had like the integrated light bars..."
The Nissan Titan is a big truck made by Nissan. The Titan Warrior was a special version of this truck that looked even cooler and had more features.
The Nissan Titan is a full-size pickup truck known for its robust design and capability. The Titan Warrior concept was a more aggressive and high-end version of the Titan, featuring unique styling and advanced features.
Nissan Gtr
"The GTR was so successful. And I know everyone's going to be like, oh, we should do another GTR. But the problem that I that I run into with doing another GTR is that the R35 was such a icon."
The Nissan GT-R is a fast sports car known for its impressive performance. The R35 is the specific version that came out in 2007 and is famous for its speed and technology.
The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car that has been a significant player in the automotive world since its introduction. The R35 generation, launched in 2007, is particularly noted for its advanced technology and performance capabilities, making it an icon in the automotive landscape.
DCT
"...drive in the back, you know, transfer, you know, DCT probably the same way that it had, but there's going to be an electronic assist somewhere in there..."
DCT means Dual-Clutch Transmission, which is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps cars shift gears faster. It uses two clutches to make the process smoother and quicker.
DCT stands for Dual-Clutch Transmission, a type of automatic transmission that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. This allows for faster gear shifts and improved performance compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...g about the hybrid drive, you know, you have the Corvette ZR1X, you know, that thing is a hybrid drive and..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous American sports car that's known for being fast and stylish. Newer models even use a mix of gas and electric power to improve performance and efficiency.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car that has been in production since 1953, known for its performance and distinctive design. The latest models feature advanced technology, including hybrid options, which are significant in the evolution of sports cars.
hybrid drive
"...talking about the hybrid drive, you know, you have the Corvette ZR1X, you know, that thing is a hybrid drive and it's making what 1200 horsepower..."
A hybrid drive is when a car uses both a regular engine and an electric motor to run. This helps the car save fuel and can make it more powerful.
A hybrid drive refers to a vehicle that uses two or more types of power sources, typically combining an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This setup can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while providing high performance.
Ford GT40
"if they did a GT40 again and Ford came out with something where they took the the Predator engine..."
The Ford GT40 is a famous race car from the 1960s that won many races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It's known for its speed and unique look.
The Ford GT40 is a high-performance sports car that was originally developed in the 1960s to compete in endurance racing, particularly at Le Mans. It is known for its iconic design and racing success.
Predator engine
"that 5.2 liter engine out of the Shelby GT500s and maybe did a twin turbo or supercharged version..."
The Predator engine is a powerful V8 engine found in the Ford Shelby GT500. It's designed for high performance and speed.
The Predator engine is a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine used in the Ford Shelby GT500. It is known for its high performance and power output, making it one of the most powerful production engines.
Shelby GT500
"...r engine that 5.2 liter engine out of the Shelby GT500s and maybe did a twin turbo or supercharged versio..."
The Shelby GT500 is a super-fast version of the Ford Mustang that has a really powerful engine. It's built for people who want a thrilling driving experience.
The Shelby GT500 is a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang, known for its powerful supercharged V8 engine. It represents the pinnacle of Mustang performance and is often discussed for its impressive speed and track capabilities.
Chevy SS
"do you remember a lot of the Chevy SS that came out a couple years ago is essentially the Holden?"
The Chevy SS is a large car made by Chevrolet that has a strong V8 engine. It's known for being fun to drive and having a lot of space inside.
The Chevrolet SS is a full-size sedan that was produced from 2014 to 2017. It features a powerful V8 engine and is known for its performance and spacious interior.
Cadillac CT5
"So yeah, you can compete with an M5. Let's say the CT5 black wing is competitive with the M5..."
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a fast and powerful version of the CT5 car. It's built to compete with other luxury sports cars, like the BMW M5.
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a high-performance version of the CT5 sedan, designed to compete with luxury sports sedans like the BMW M5. It features a powerful engine and enhanced performance features.
BMW M5
"...anely expensive. So yeah, you can compete with an M5. Let's say the CT5 black wing is competitive wit..."
The BMW M5 is a super-fast version of a regular BMW car that also has a lot of luxury features. It's known for being really powerful and fun to drive.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, known for its powerful engines and sporty handling. It has a reputation for blending luxury with performance, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Performance SUVs
"It feels very much like when you're talking about American brands, they're all focused on SUVs and we talked about this before with the Performance SUVs..."
Performance SUVs are bigger cars that are designed to be fast and fun to drive, unlike regular SUVs that focus more on comfort and space.
Performance SUVs are sport utility vehicles designed with enhanced power, handling, and features to provide a more dynamic driving experience compared to standard SUVs.
performance sedan
"...Isn't it funny that we're questioning whether or not a sedan, a performance related sedan would suck?"
A performance sedan is a car that looks like a regular sedan but is built to go faster and handle better. It's made for people who want a fun driving experience while still having room for passengers.
A performance sedan is a type of car that combines the practicality of a sedan with enhanced performance features, such as a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and improved handling characteristics. These vehicles are designed for both everyday use and spirited driving.
Ford Explorer
"...ng. I would love to see them do like a V8 powered Explorer. Like if they just were like, hey, SRT is coming..."
The Ford Explorer is a family-friendly SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's popular because it's roomy and can handle different types of roads.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that has been a popular choice for families since its introduction in the early 1990s. Known for its spacious interior and versatility, it has evolved over the years to include various engine options and modern technology.
Ford Mustang
"...even the sports car, let's be honest, besides the Mustang, Ford doesn't really bring much more to the tabl..."
The Ford Mustang is a classic American sports car that people love for its speed and cool looks. It's been around for a long time and is famous for being fun to drive.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964, known for its powerful engines and sporty design. It has become a symbol of American automotive culture and continues to be a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
Ford F-150 Lightning
"...UV. And that's shown by their F-150s getting the lightning treatment. How many of these two-door aluminum-bo..."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric truck that can do everything a regular truck can do but without using gas. It's part of a new wave of trucks that are better for the environment.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of the best-selling F-150 pickup truck, combining traditional truck capabilities with electric performance. Its introduction marks a significant step in the electrification of the pickup segment.
Nissan 250SX
"...what about like a newer Sylvia slash 250SX type thing? I mean, it's all well and good, but you can't even get..."
The Nissan 250SX is a version of the Silvia that was available in the U.S. It's known for being fun to drive and is often modified by fans to make it faster or look cooler.
The Nissan 250SX is a variant of the Silvia that was sold in North America. It shares similar performance characteristics and is also popular among car enthusiasts for modifications and racing.
Infiniti Q50
"...and good, but you can't even get them to get the Q50 to still sell in the United States when they're a..."
The Infiniti Q50 is a fancy car that's comfortable and has lots of nice features. It's made for people who want a mix of luxury and good performance.
The Infiniti Q50 is a luxury sedan known for its performance and upscale features. It competes in the premium sedan market, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and driving dynamics.
Nissan Skyline
"...the Nismo Skyline that they're doing over in Japan. If they brought that over here, I still think that that would sell well..."
The Nissan Skyline is a famous sports car that many people admire for its speed and technology. The GT-R version is especially well-known for racing and has a lot of fans around the world.
The Nissan Skyline is a legendary sports car known for its performance and advanced technology, particularly in the GT-R variants. It has a cult following and is famous for its role in motorsports and popular culture.
Nissan Z
"...not too powerful so it kind of conflicts with the Z. You know what I mean? Something in the middle there..."
The Nissan Z is a sporty car that has been around for a long time. It's known for being fun to drive and has a strong fan base.
The Nissan Z is a line of sports cars known for their performance and iconic design. The latest generation aims to blend modern technology with the classic Z-car spirit.
Acura Integra
"... Honda's trying to do that with bringing back the Integra. They try to do that with bringing the CTR over ..."
The Acura Integra is a small car that people loved for its sporty feel and reliability. It's making a comeback because many drivers want fun and dependable cars.
The Acura Integra is a compact car that has been a favorite among enthusiasts since its introduction in the 1980s, known for its sporty performance and reliability. Its recent revival reflects Acura's commitment to appealing to a younger audience.
Nissan LFA
"...somebody that's showing off a, you know, LFA successor, let's say..."
The Nissan LFA is a super-fast sports car that was made in limited numbers. It's famous for its great performance and unique engine sound.
The Nissan LFA is a high-performance supercar known for its advanced engineering and distinctive sound. It was produced in limited numbers and is celebrated for its driving dynamics and design.
Nissan Silvia
"...hat would capture the market. I don't see it. The Silvia was such a unique car because all the way back, ..."
The Nissan Silvia is a sporty car that people loved for its fun driving experience. It's popular among fans who like to customize their cars for racing or drifting.
The Nissan Silvia is a sports car that gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and tuning potential. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts, particularly in the drifting community.
Nissan 240SX
"with that said, you know what they did right though with the 240SX version, like the S13 in the U.S., they made it affordable."
The Nissan 240SX is a budget-friendly sports car that was popular in the U.S. It's known for being fun to drive and has a simple design.
The Nissan 240SX is a sports car that was sold in the United States, known for its affordability and rear-wheel-drive layout. It shares a platform with the Silvia but is often considered less luxurious.
Tesla My Model
"...er vehicle, I think that would make sense because my model have to make sense. I don't know why, but with m..."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that doesn't use gas and can go a long way on a single charge. It's known for being high-tech and having features that help with driving.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that shares many components with the Model 3 sedan. It's significant for its range, performance, and advanced technology, including autopilot features.
Toyota GR Corolla
"...se. Like an affordable opponent to the Type R and GR Corolla for Mazda and something that's not automatic, ob..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla, made for people who want a fun and fast car. It has a powerful engine and better handling for a more exciting drive.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a performance-oriented version of the standard Corolla, designed to compete in the hot hatch segment. It features a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, making it a significant player in the compact performance market.
Subaru WRX
"...in the US market. So you're just going after the WRX. Could you outcompete the WRX with that car is th..."
The Subaru WRX is a sporty car that can handle tough roads and weather because it has all-wheel drive. It's popular with people who love fast cars and racing.
The Subaru WRX is a high-performance version of the Subaru Impreza, known for its all-wheel-drive system and rally-inspired design. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts for its performance and capability in various driving conditions.
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