[November 2-5 2004]
After almost forty years, the Specialty Equipment Market Association show (better known as SEMA) has grown to become North America's main event when it comes to the aftermarket industry and the sport compact scene's virtual crystal ball, with manufacturers using SEMA as a springboard for launching their new product lines and demo vehicles.

Two SEMA's ago, the Subaru WRX and Hummer H2 were the most popular vehicles used to showcase the latest in aftermarket technology while last year the Nissan 350Z' could be found in every other booth sporting every performance part imaginable. Other than those companies cashing in on the ever-increasing popularity of the drift phenomenon, this year's show may have signaled the end of the rice rockets and the rebirth of American muscle as Ford Mustang's, Chrysler 300's and Dodge Magnum's could be found throughout the venue, offering the latest in aftermarket accessories and perhaps a glimpse at what's in store for the tuner scene. Ford Racing Performance Parts and Toyo Tires were quick to combine the world of domestics and drift by signing 18-year old drifting phenomenon Ken Gushi to pilot their supercharged Mustang GT for 2005.

With the American manufacturers waiting eagerly for tuners to outgrow their Acura's and Nissan's, it's clear that the Japanese still corner the market. Honda's booth was full of some impressive rides (most of them nowhere near available at your local dealership) and manufacturers catering to Japanese makes and models were in abundance. Companies like Tein and JIC-Magic increased their presence with larger displays and expanded product lines, and APR Performance used a trio of red-and-black, wide-bodied rides, more specifically a Toyota Celica and MR2 Spyder, and Mitsubishi Evolution VII to show off their line of wide-body kits and universal performance accessories.