If you are into cars, you are probably familiar with the SEMA show that’s been held every November, in Las Vegas, Nevada. You would also know, it’s a place where some of the craziest car builds can be seen. Basically, companies, be it automotive, aftermarket, or otherwise, show off their expertise and creativity. Honda of all companies, has decided to bring out something rather unusual – a 1990s Honda Accord Station Wagon with a heart transplant, the heart being that of the latest Civic Type R.

The project in question is a collaboration between Fifteen52, Mountune USA, and Honda Performance Development (HPD). The Honda Accord is referred to as “Project 96” because this particular Accord Aerodeck (Station Wagon) was produced in 1996. The car also scores the iconic JACCS livery, known from Honda vehicles participating in the 1990s, FIA Group A, JTCC series.

In addition to being unique, the build is a chance for Honda Performance Development to showcase its K20C1 crate engine. Yes, the engine that powers the current (and upcoming) generation Civic Type R will be available for a wide variety of projects – a wise move from Honda, given how popular Honda K-swaps have become in recent times.

Just like in the FK8 Civic Type R, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four mill produces 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet (400 Nm). With such going power, it’s wise to have an equally good stopping power, which is why they’ve also fitted Civic Type R brakes. The car now sits on Tein coil-overs and inside, you will find a full roll-cage.

Why go with a station wagon? Probably because it’s more unusual and let’s not forget Volvo did a similar feat back in the 1990s, with their 850 R Station Wagon BTCC race car, which was actually quite successful. American resto-mods are cool most of the time, but to see one from Japan that’s also a tribute to JTCC race cars ticks all the "cool" boxes.