Predominantly involving Asian American youths, import racing officially made its mark in 1991. It is different than the Chicano lowriding or Anglo muscle car traditions. This form of racing is unique because participants fix up or modify sub-compact, import cars in order to make the vehicles lighter, faster, and visually exciting.
Many participants use their cars day to day, just showing rather than racing.
Import racing is largely an Asian American phenomenon, which makes sense since Orange County has one of the fastest growing Asian American populations in the country. Import racers are typically Asian American males between the ages of 16 and 21. There are plenty of female racers and non-Asian American participants, but it is estimated that at least 50 percent of Orange County import racers are Asian American males. Some import shows and races in the southern California area draw up to 15,000 participants in one weekend. These events are interesting because there are different racing crews or groups who travel and hang out together.