As you've already deduced, turbo minivans are pretty stealthy and can blend into traffic anywhere. Is there any way to recognize them on the street? Yes, there are a few subtle clues. The most obvious is the pair of turbo decals (one on each fender) and no V6 badges. Another clue is the twin-tipped side exit aluminum exhaust pipe, but be careful: while every turbo van used this tip, a few high-end V6 models wore it as well. If you get up close to one, you could also check the VIN; if the 8th character is a J then there is a 2.5L turbo four cylinder under the hood.
Even casual racers will perform exhaust system upgrades (and there is plenty of room to hide even a three inch mandrel system under these vans) so the twin tip will usually only indicate a turbo minivan which is totally stock. Further, savvy racers are prone to peeling off the turbo decals so as to not alert the competition before it's too late. Keep your ears open as well as your eyes; that throaty exhaust rumble might be the only clue you're about to get spanked by a souped-up minivan.
Now for the best part: why not get in on the FUN? Now that you know what you're looking for, keep your eyes peeled when driving by used car lots or when scanning through the classifieds. You can pick these things up for low prices, and a few inexpensive bolt-ons will make you the terror of cruise night! And trust us: the first time you see jaws drop in a Mustang GT as you pull away, you'll realize it was money well spent!