Clone vs. Original: Are Tribute Builds Just as Cool? - EP.154
About this episode
Exploring the ongoing debate between tribute builds and original cars, this episode dives into the perspectives of car enthusiasts regarding clones versus originals. Bobby and Aaron discuss the motivations behind creating tribute cars, the ethical implications of misrepresentation, and the cultural clash between purists and builders. They share anecdotes about iconic models like the R400 and the challenges of distinguishing between a well-executed clone and a genuine article. The conversation highlights the importance of honesty in car culture while celebrating creativity and personal expression in automotive builds.
What’s better — owning the real deal or building your own tribute? In this episode of the Right Hand Drive Guys Podcast, we dive deep into the world of clones vs. originals in JDM culture.
From million-dollar legends like the Nismo 400R and R34 Z-Tune to painstakingly built replicas and tribute cars, we break down the pros, cons, and controversies. Are clones a celebration of passion, or do they cheapen the value of the originals?
We’ll cover:
- Why clones exist (rarity, price, accessibility).
- Respect vs. “faking it” — where’s the line?
- Market value and ethics of selling tribute builds.
- Purists vs. builders: who’s really right?
- Examples from Skylines, Supras, RX-7s, and beyond.
We want to hear from you! Would you rather daily a perfect 400R tribute or keep it real with a stock GTS-T? Drop your takes on Instagram @RHDGUYS — we’ll feature some of your answers on the next show.
🚗 Grab your wrench, grab your wallet, and let’s get into it.
Nissan R33
"...a clone, okay? If you, let's just say you were an R33 guy, you love $400, right? Yeah."
Nissan Gtr
"... out of my car and people are like, oh dude, sick GTR. But you know, it's hard to say, yeah, it's not a..."
Toyota Supra
"...a guy who does a TT or, you know, a GTE swap on a Supra and puts the turbo badge on the back."
Chevrolet Camaro
"Yeah. Look at, dude, look at the Yanco Camaros or, you know, these also cars all the time back i..."
Shelby Cobra
"...could easily make a clone or, or dude, the Shelby Cobra. Oh yeah, all you got, oh, for sure."
Pontiac Fiero
"...t's the difference. Or I mean, dude, hell, take a Fiero and turn it into a Ferrari, dude. Like people hav..."
Ferrari F40
"... a tribute, right? Like in it, like some of those F40 kick cars, like, dude, it's so ridiculous. Like, ..."
Toyota Celica
"...ss it wasn't a kick car, but it was like a Toyota Celica on the inside, like the early 2000s or early 2000..."
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