Hmmm
I tend to disagree as I drove a Makinen for 500 miles in one day, a couple of months ago.
The suspension and amp;/or springing is definately different to my EVO V1. On normal road surfaces it is much more supple and amp; is less harsh. However when cornering, the progressive springs harden up so it feels like a standard V1 then. I preferred the feel of the Maskinen, and amp; shortly intend to have Eibach progressive springs fitted.
I believe that the Makinen has a titnium turbo, and amp; in the car I drove, which was not run in at the time, 5th gear acceleration from 65mph up was quicker than my V1 in standard trim. It also has a different exhaust backbox as well as the front strutbrace.
As for looks, this is of course a personal decision.I didn't like the red dials and amp; trim (preferring the standard blue), the white wheels look really good on a red Makinen, but not so good on a blue one! The Makinen blue is very nice (not as purpley as Icelle), but the white wheels would have to go if it was mine. Also, the Ralliart stripes/decals are optional and amp; will be very much down to personal taste!
The front bumper/spoiler is not suitable for fitting driving/fog lights.
Bottom line: if I could afford a Makinen over a standard V1, I'd go for it
)
Hope this helps all you lucky potential owners.