When discussing automobile fandom, there are many directions one could take, but none compare to JDM import cars.
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These are cars that were designed for the Japanese Domestic Market, and as such, they are masterpieces of engineering, design, and driving pleasure.
In addition to being cars, they are also cultural relics that are the products of the intersection of engineering ambition and performance passion, which has captivated fans over the years.
Why are these cars so unique? The reason JDM Import Cars were radically different from their exports is that they came with more powerful engines, advanced technology, and exclusive design features.
This was the golden era in Japan’s automobile industry, when multiple automakers were fiercely competing with one another, which resulted in some of the most legendary machines to ever touch the tarmac.
Now, due to import laws such as the 25-year rule in the United States, there are drivers who are able to experience the JDM import cars for the first time.
This is the reason that in the text below, we are going to look at ten of the best JDM import cars ever built.
They range from Polish rally cars and drifting legends to cars that are masterpieces of engineering.
All of these cars have one thing in common, which is that they have performance, innovation, and legendary heritage.
What Does JDM Import Cars Mean?
To begin with, what does the acronym “JDM Import Cars ” stand for? It is for the Japanese domestic market.
true JDM Import cars are the one that were exclusively produced for and sold within Japan. It is critical to understand that the US-spec Acura NSX and a left-hand drive Toyota Supra are, quite literally, sold in Japan, and popular Japanese cars do not qualify as JDM Import Cars in the purest sense.
It is the JDM version of a car that is highly valued for, amidst authenticity and other export versions, often more advanced specifications.
Having said that, car enthusiasts, let’s take a look at the machines that hold the legendary status.
Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
Often referred to as “Godzilla,” the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 is, without a shred of doubt, the most recognizable of JDM import cars.
Designed with beautifully chiselled and aggressive bodywork, enhanced by infinite tuning, it is no surprise the car is often dubbed a poster car for millennials.
Dominating Nissan’s engineering prowess from 1999 to 2002, the R34 GT-R is rumoured to be the most advanced of Nissan’s JDM Import cars during that time.
A legendary inline-six engine sat in the heart of the R34 GT-R: the twin-turbocharged 2.6-liter RB26DETT.
Although the engine was capable of much more because “gentlemen’ agreements” limited advertised power to 276 horsepower, it was easily modified to more than 600 horsepower from the factory.
- Engine: 2.6L RB26DETT Twin-Turbo Inline-6
- Drivetrain: ATTESA E-TS Pro All-Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: All-wheel-drive systems coupled with Super HICAS four-wheel steering made the R34 GT-R an untouchable beast on the road in addition to the track.
- Cultural Impact: Generated a cultural song of the auto man. The R34 GT-R was a superstar before it could even legally be imported in many countries in the world due to being featured in the hit video game Gran Turismo and the movie 2 Fast 2 Furious.
Toyota Supra (A80)
The legendary Toyota Supra, codenamed A80, was a titan of the 1990s and a polymath of JDM import Cars.
Unlike the boxy shape of the older models, the A80 was an aerodynamic marvel, and its sublime performance coupled with the majestic engineering was more than skin deep, which secured its place in history.
Everyone loves a good show, and what better way to stack the deck than with a flashy, heavy-duty bike and a scintillating 3.0 twin-turbo, inline 6, 2JZ GTE monster engine to mop up the competition? 2 and a half tons of horsepower and torque under the hood, with a truthfully stunning design to add, sheer perfection.
For a ride like the Supra, with 70 to 120 and nothing under, the design feats and engineering capabilities are nothing short of remarkable.
The love and passion of classic needs to be appreciated smack a tune and engine on the Supra and multiple mods, and you will gleefully realize you can dab in the world of drag racing. It’s safe to say, automotive masterpieces should be signed and then put on display for the world to see.
For a stylish and sexy set of wheels, look no further than the Supra.
Check out the automotive magazines and provide them with the love and admiration they’ve earned.
- Engine: 3.0L 2JZ-GTE Twin-Turbo Inline-6
- Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
- Cultural Impact: Thanks to its primary role in The Fast and the Furious franchise, the Supra has rocketed to the heavens of fame, claiming the title of the ultimate champion car of the period. The sheer 2JZ turning power is marvelous to the keepers and caretakers.
Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
The FD, a 3 RX7, will never go out of style. Back in the day you could see many space rocket-like vehicles fly overhead, along with the roaring visual of the engine.
Sleek, Powerful and Glamorous. Beautifully crafted from the interior to the engineering of the 13b engine.
The level of engineering shines and sets standards for the world to meet.
The RX-7’s true brilliance, though, is in the way it handles. The FD is a driver’s car, with a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, a low center of gravity, and MSMI double-wishbone suspension.
Few cars can reward a driver skillful enough to master it by agile and spirited driving in the way the RX-7 can.
It is also one of the prettiest cars to come from Japan, with its flowy silhouette that still looks contemporary even today.
- Engine: 1.3L 13B-REW Twin-Rotor Sequential Twin-Turbo
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: One of the most purist driving experiences one can have is from the combination of the lightweight rotary engine and outstanding chassis balance.
- Cultural Impact: The RX-7 became a representation of rotary power and a favorite among the drift and time attack communities. Its status was further enhanced by its presence in meme-worthy anime such as Initial D.
4. Honda NSX
When the Honda NSX (or Acura NSX in North America) was released, it caused some tremors in the exotic car market.
A mid-engine supercar from Japan that could compete with the big boys from Ferrari and Lamborghini but was built with Honda reliability and ease of use.
And polishing the design was none other than legendary Formula One driver Ayrton Senna.
The JDM Import Cars version of the NSX had a high-revving, naturally aspirated 3.0L V6 VTEC engine. It didn’t have the highest of power figures, but the all-aluminum monocoque chassis was a very rigid and low-weight construction.
The NSX went for the driver performance and not simply horsepower. Supercars are meant to be daily driven, but without the normal supercar maintenance, high performance often involves headaches.
- Engine: 3.0L C30A V6 (later 3.2L C32B V6)
- Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: A supercar that was exhilarating while still giving reliability, thanks to the all-aluminum chassis and construction and chassis tuning by Ayrton Senna.
- Cultural Impact: The NSX proved to the rest of the world that Japan could build world-class supercars and, in turn, forced all European manufacturers to step up the quality and reliability of their cars.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition.
The Mitsubishi Evolution, or simply ‘Evo,’ is a legendary vehicle with the capability of serving both as a rally and road vehicle.
Although each generation is unique in its own right, the Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition (TME) tends to take the cake.
This model, which is particularly popular within the JDM Import Cars community, is the result of a collaboration between Mitsubishi and the legendary rally driver Tommi Mäkinen, who clinched four consecutive WRC championships.
The TME edition, in comparison to the Evo VI, came with a titanium-aluminide turbine, which was responsive in the turbocharger, a lower ride height, quicker steering, and a unique front bumper for better aerodynamics.
It is finished with Ralliart decals, along with the signature white Enkei wheels, and is regarded as the ‘ultimate’ model of Mitsubishi.
This is primarily due to its sophisticated integrated all-wheel drive and 4G63T engine, making it a ‘weapon’ on late roads as well.
- Engine: 2.0L 4G63T Turbocharged Inline-4.
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive.
The specialized turbo and rally-bred suspension make it one of the most aggressive and capable Evos ever produced.
The WRC Mitsubishi title holder is regarded by many as the peak in Mitsubishi history and the ultimate Lancer Evolution.
6. Subaru Impreza 22B STi
Similar to the Evo, the Subaru Impreza also has its roots in rally competition. In the same vein that the Evo has the TME, Subaru has the 22B STi.
Constructed in 1998 for Subaru’s 40th Anniversary and for its third consecutive WRC manufacturer’s title, the 22B is the Holy Grail for Subaru enthusiasts.
Of the 400 cars produced, all of them were restricted to the Japanese market, making this car a rare JDM Import Cars .
The 22B is unveiled to the world in all of its beauty. Characterized by the WRC’s distinct widebody style, the widebody coupe’s design is immortalized in the cars of utmost respect.
It’s on the 22B where the Subaru rally racing engineering comes to life in the wide-body coupe, lower and the eastern hemisphere settlement of the world.
Unique in all of its 22B scarcely JDM Import cars, Subaru is UKRAINE F.B.O., where horses, whitebox tanks, and leather meet.
- Engine: 2.2L EJ22G Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer)
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: The widebody coupe and the hand-built 2.2-liter mark the Impreza in the world of ‘one-of-a-kinds’ and ‘modern.’
- Cultural Impact: The 22B has built itself a reputation of being a ‘mythical tier of a Subaru’ that cannot be touched. Its rarity and direct connection to rally history add to its value, making it one of the most sought-after Subaru cars.
Nissan Silvia (S15) Spec-R
The Nissan Silvia enjoys the reputation of the king of drifting. Although the S13 and S14 generations are popular, the S15, which was sold only in Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, is the last and most refined iteration.
The Spec-R model is the most sought after, sitting at the absolute peak of the Silvia range.
The Spec-R Silvia received the SR20DET, a 2.0L turbocharged inline 4 engine that was highly regarded because of its quick spool time and eagerness to rev.
The Silvia’s keystone feature is its perfectly balanced rear-wheel-drive chassis. The Silvia is light, quick, and effortless to control in a slide, which is the primary reason it has dominated professional drifting for years.
The Spec-R was equipped with a 6-speed manual, a helical limited slip diff, and a stiffer chassis, which made it a jaw-dropping performance car.
- D engine: 2.0L SR20DET Turbocharged Inline-4
- D chassis: Rear Wheel Drive
The Spec-R is legendary for its incredible chassis balance and the SR20DET engine, which allows complete control for drifting.
Impact: The S15 has become a cultural icon in drifting. Long after production ceased, it has continued to be a popular choice among both beginners and highly skilled professionals, influencing drift culture immensely.
8. Honda Integra Type R (DC2)
The Honda Integra Type R (DC2) is often referred to as one of the craziest and one of the best performance cars in front-wheel-drive form.
The Type R Integra was and still is the first Honda to get the Type R badge. It was a lesson in lightweight construction and high-revving, aspirated fun.
Its heart and soul was the one and only hand-ported B18C engine. The absolutely insane and legendary engine that featured 1.8 liters of thunderous and screaming DOHC VTEC was most noted for its 8,400 RPM ceiling.
Everything in this super radical machine was performance oriented. The chassis was extra reinforced, and the machine featured a helical limited-slip differential.
All the soundproofing was stripped to save weight. The end result was a freaking alive car with a shriek and an engine crying to be pushed.
- Engine: 1.8L B18C DOHC VTEC Inline-4
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: The one-of-a-kind, high-revving, hand-crafted engine and chassis significantly advanced the technology of FWD cars.
- Cultural Impact: On the road and track, the DC2 Type R changed the game and paved the way for why front-wheel-drive cars can be fun and why they can compete. It is now a well-renowned legendary car.
Autozam AZ-1
Not all legendary JDM import cars are about the power. The Autozam AZ-1 is proof that fun can come in a very small package.
The AZ-1 was a product of Japan’s kei car class and is classified as a true micro-supercar. It was designed by Mazda and sold under its Autozam brand.
The AZ-1 has such mind-blowing features as gullwing doors and a mid-engine layout. It even has a little Suzuki 657cc turbocharged 3-cylinder mid-engine. It is unlike anything else on the road.
The driving experience is unique in that it has a go-kart-like feel with an incredible sense of speed even at legal limits.
Its exotic appeal and extremely limited production run give the AZ-1 the claim to being one of the most eccentric and coolest kei cars ever made.
- Engine: 657cc Turbocharged Inline-3
- Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
- Key Feature: Gullwing doors and a mid-engine layout on a tiny kei car chassis.
- Cultural Impact: The AZ-1 is a cult classic. It is loved by all for its quirky design and fun driving experience. It is a symbol of the creativity that emerged from Japan’s bubble economy era.
Toyota Century
The Century is an interesting car, but a sports car it is not. It is, however, one of the most interesting and rare JDM import cars available.
The Century is the most luxurious limousine in Japan, designed for emperors, diplomats, and high-ranking executives.
For many decades, it was fitted with a 5.0-liter, whisper-quiet, and ultra-smooth V12, the only production V12 in Japan, which is a remarkable feat in itself.
There’s nothing awe-inspiring or intimidating about the car’s performance or its looks. There is, however, a world-class comfort and quality, with a prestige that is not too flashy.
The paint is finessed to a mirror shine, and the wool upholstery is designed to be quieter than leather.
Every element of the car aims to ensure the passenger has a refreshing, isolated ride. It does say something if one owns a Century, but only to those informed.
It does embody a piece of Japanese automotive treasure, which can be read about on Road & Track and many other places.
- Engine: 1GZ-FE V12, 5.0L
- Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive.
- Major Selling Point: It is the only mass-produced V12 in Japan, and there is incredibly detailed attention given to a passenger’s comfort.
- Cultural Impact: The Century is a discreet symbol of luxury that differs from other automobiles in the finer things in life than speed.
The Enduring Appeal of JDM Import Cars
Compared to other automotive cultures, the world of JDM import cars offers a depth and a variety that few can match.
From V12-powered limousines to micro supercars with gullwing doors, these vehicles showcase one-of-a-kind engineering and genuine passion.
These mechanical wonders are more than just a form of transportation. They are moving works of art that have their own stories to tell.
The legend of JDM Import cars is one that even a tuner, collector, and even a casual admirer cannot escape from.
It is a tale loved by countless automobile enthusiasts all around the world and continues to motivate the new generation.
Frequently Asked Questions About JDM Import Cars
What does JDM mean in the context of cars?
JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market. A true JDM car is a vehicle that was manufactured and originally sold exclusively in Japan. These models often have different specifications, engines, or features compared to the version JDM cars are the specifications that are kept for Japan in comparison to the other exported versions of the vehicle. This is why these cars are so popular across automotive cultures.
What makes JDM import cars so special?
JDM import cars are a blend of many different factors, all contributing to the widespread admiration and appreciation for the cars across the globe. Competition is fierce amongst the Japanese Automakers and that is why many Japanese Domestic Market Vehicles manufactured in the 80s and 90s possess better technology and advanced features compared to other cars. They are also unique models which have a different design in comparison to other cars in the same era and this coupled with their strong ties to Japanese tuner and drift culture, makes the cars even more sought after.
What are some of the most iconic JDM cars ever made?
Almost all models which are considered to be a part of this era have some sort of masterpiece in them. The Nissan Skyline GT-R, in particular the R34, the 2JZ equipped Toyota Supra, the rotary engine equipped Mazda RX-7, and the rare rally-bred Subaru Impreza 22B STi all posses a legendary status and have made a mark in the car industry.
Q. How do you bring a JDM car into America?
A. How a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle gets into America is often subject to what is dubbed as the “25-Year Rule”. The legislation allowed for the import of vehicles whose manufacture date is at least a quarter of a decade. These cars do not have to abide by the regulations of contemporary federal motor vehicle safety standards. This rule has allowed for the import of a multitude of JDM classics.
Q. Is it hard to buy or maintain JDM cars?
A. Not particularly. Models such as the Skyline GT-R and Supra have seen a noticeable spike in their asking price due to the overwhelming market. Their maintenance is slightly more costly than the average car. Part of the reason being the need to source components which requires traveling to Japan in some cases or having a specialized mechanic.
Q: What is the easiest JDM car to import for a beginner?
A: For newcomers to JDM car culture, the Nissan Silvia (S13/S14), Mazda Miata (Japan-only Eunos Roadster), or non-turbo Toyota Supra serves as a relatively accessible first step. These models have ample community resources, and parts availability is much better than the rarer, high-performance “Godzilla” Skyline.
Q: What is the reason behind most JDM cars being right hand drive?
A: Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles are right-hand drive (RHD) because that is the driving orientation of Japan. JDM imports will still be in RHD, and that configuration is part of the identity and character of the vehicle as well as the driving experience.
Q: What does “gentleman’s agreement” mean in JDM car history?
A: During the late 1980s, while the Japanese automotive industry operated in a self-imposed “gentleman’s agreement,” automakers were to restrict performance cars to 276 hp of advertised output. Many cars, like the Skyline GT-R with the RB26DETT, produced much more than 276 hp, and were officially rated at this number to avoid a horsepower war, hence why it is such an intriguing chapter in JDM history.
