[KiltedBanshees93GT]

I will agree with the fact that a lot if import guys have the same pride and work invested in their cars, and to them its the same dedication that a lot of the domestic rodders have. I think a lot of the old hardcore tuners started as domestic folks who got bored and wanted to try modding something else, something different (in the same general spirit as the racers in the 40's previously mentioned) Just a personal theory.
I think that the thing that has held them (Import drivers) back from general acceptance/respect the most has not been the technological side, tho lacking those other 4 cylinders is a bit of a handicap, but the taste and attitude of a smaller but obnoxious subculture (i.e. ricers).
These guys have no respect for anything that is not from across the water, and dont seem to grasp basic physics. They are loud in their pronouncements of asian superiority, and have managed to alienate the rest of the car community with their boorish behavior, lack of general taste (How many fog lights do you really need?) and refusal to give respect even in the face of just having their butt whipped. (I dont know about you, but if I get into a race and get my hindquarters handed to me, I'm much more likely to give you a thumbs up when I catch up, than the finger. I've been known to pick races with much faster cars just to see them run. )
Its this attitude that has driven a wedge between the crowds, IMHO. Otherwise, we would just smile and pat them on the head

Just my .02,
J