Since the late 1990s, demand for cars produced for the Japanese domestic market has been rising. JDM vehicles appeal to many auto enthusiasts in regions of the world like North America, Europe, and Asia. Honda, Subaru, Toyota, Mazda, Suzuki, Lexus, Mitsubishi Motors, and Nissan are a few well-known brands.
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Mitsubishi: A JDM automobile?
- Years of models: 19992001
- 2 litres is the engine size.
- output of 276 horsepower
- Configuration of the drivetrain: AWD
The Subaru Impreza’s fiercest competitor was this sporty sedan. It had inline four-cylinder turbocharged engines and a five-speed manual transmission. Updates were made to the sixth generation to increase cooling and engine toughness.
Its bodywork was updated, and the enormous fog lights were shrunk and relocated to the corners for greater ventilation.
After the legendary Finnish racer for Mitsubishi won four World Rally Championships, the Tommi Makinen edition was given his name.
This model included 17-inch Enkei white wheels, a titanium turbine that spun more quickly, a lower riding height, and a quicker steering ratio.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution was now stronger and more spectacular than ever thanks to all these upgrades.
These models, which had previously only been available in Japan, swiftly rose to prominence among JDM vehicles after being marketed in the UK, Europe, and the USA due to a niche market for grey imports.
You need look no further than this 1:24 scale WRC Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI to get a memento of Tommi Mkinen’s heyday.
Mitsubishi Evo – JDM or not?
The manufacturer’s response to the four-door sports sedan was the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo. In actuality, it was developed to rival Subaru’s then-popular Impreza WRX. It was manufactured from 1992 to 2016 and is still regarded as a classic. Rally racing truly took off in the 1990s and 2000s, and spectators yearned for the on-road equivalents of the cars they admired on television. The competition began when Mitsubishi unveiled their take on an all-wheel-drive mid-size car in response to Subaru’s WRX’s commercial success.
What kind of vehicle qualifies as JDM?
JDM originally referred to vehicles that were sold primarily in Japan, but it has since evolved to refer to any high-performance Japanese model, whether it be a new or used vehicle that is marketed solely in Japan or in several international markets, such as the United States and Canada.
Is it a Japanese or Mitsubishi vehicle?
Mitsubishi automobiles are produced at Japanese factories. In Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan, there is a plant (the Mizushima Plant) manufacturing more technologically advanced models. In Okazaki, Aichi, Japan, there is also a research and development facility for automobiles.
Which car is the JDM king?
There is a JDM automobile for everyone, whether they want to develop a track weapon or a dependable daily driver. All you need to do is be persistent in your search for a revered, well-kept exemplar.
Here is a list of some of the greatest and most affordable JDM vehicles available right now. These cars have been divided into categories based on how hard they are to find and what price range they fit.
The Best JDM Cars Under $10k
Exotic does not automatically equate to costly. That’s accurate. Depending on where and how hard you look, some of the most magnificent JDM vehicles ever produced can be found for $10,000 or less.
You can locate a wide selection of these cars, ranging in price from an old, beaten-up barn find to a nearly-stock, beautiful example.
So if you’re on a tight budget and want a drift or track missile, give these cars a shot.
Mazda Miata MX-5 NB
The Miata is priceless and has distinguished itself in the automotive world. Sure, some may call it overrated, and some might downright despise it. But nothing alters the reality that this vehicle has served as a stepping stone into the world of automobiles for many fans.
The Miata’s four iterations each brought something special to the table. Over the years, devotees have grown to adore the basic NA and NB selections.
The NC and ND are also great choices if you’d want something a little more contemporary and are prepared to spend a little more money. These have a ton of aftermarket support for customizations, and parts like radiators, rims, cold air intakes, sway bars, short shifters, and superchargers are easily accessible.
Mazda FC3S RX7 Turbo II
The FC-RX7 is the least expensive Rotary vehicle you can purchase, except the Mazda RX-8. Contrary to popular assumption, a well maintained Rotary engine is actually fairly dependable. The Rotary engine is just a little bit more sensitive to carelessness and subpar maintenance, but this is true for all engines.
Finding a well-kept FC RX-7 can be very challenging because most of them are sold out of resentment.
Use a reliable compression tester to get an understanding of the engine’s present internal state. However, the results of this test are not a reliable predictor of any future engine issues.
You should be good to go as long as you get a compression reading of 7 or above on the Mazda tester (a specialized device that only Mazda dealers have) and a standard gauge reading of 85 psi or higher.
Lexus SC300
This is the automobile we would choose if we had to pick only one JDM vehicle under $10,000. In the world of vintage Japanese vehicles, the SC300 is an underappreciated jewel. It has a lot of components in common with the Supra, such as the 2JZ engine. Sadly, not the GTE, but the 2JZ-GE.
Despite this, 2JZ-GEs and their larger, turbocharged sibling have a lot in common. It can easily handle a turbo kit, which is a really simple way to unlock a ton of more power, with the same rods and crankshaft. However, it cannot manage the same amount of electricity as the GTE. As long as you don’t exceed 8 PSI of boost, the engine is still fairly reliable.
It has all the space you’re going to need and makes a great sleeper car. Those who enjoy automated transmissions and powerful V8 engines may choose the SC400. There is no SC400 V8 + manual option, though.
We would drive the SC300 any day of the week because it appears to be incredibly period correct. Purchase yours now to avoid price increases and maintain privacy!
Infiniti G35
Are you past the 350z’s age limit? No one is ever too old for a 350z, to be exact. But you should give the G35 considerable consideration if you want something more refined and VIP-like. While the G35 and 350z are both excellent automobiles, the latter is unquestionably more exclusive.
It has a powerful VQ35HR V6 powertrain with a solid reputation for dependability. All the power you require is in this rear-wheel drive vehicle. This provides a wealth of potential applications. Driving on the street, track days, togue, and many other activities.
There is always the option to upgrade the exhaust if you don’t like the standard VQ sound. The support for these automobiles in the aftermarket is amazing. This platform has a lot of potential because to a variety of G35 adaptations, including high-performance builds and handling enhancements that make them seem like they’re on rails.
The Infiniti G35 was not sold in Japan in the manner that you claim, and you are correct. The Nissan Skyline name is used to identify the Japanese model (V35). But ultimately, the two cars share the same soul.
Best JDM Cars Under $5000
Who says you can’t purchase a JDM era piece on a tight budget? You can find inexpensive JDM automobiles that are a wonderful value if you look hard enough.
However, don’t take this pricing range too seriously. Finding a fantastic example of one of these automobiles for under $5,000 is not always doable. However, it is feasible to locate one that needs minor work and is in fair shape.
Honda Civic EK9 Type-R
The Honda Civic EK9 Type-R hatch is your best option if you’re on a tight budget and want to have a lot of fun. Even if the EK Type-R is unavailable, the EG hatch is still a fantastic alternative.
When Japanese street racing was at its peak, this automobile was the Kanjozoku’s preferred weapon. It was (and still is) the ideal car: nimble, light, quick to stop, good handling, and fast enough to keep up with more potent vehicles.
There are many affordable spare parts available, and there are countless aftermarket upgrade choices. If you look hard enough, you can easily locate one for less than $5000.
Nissan 350z
There is no need to introduce this car. This is a case where Nissan truly nailed the mark. It is all around you! Race courses, backroads, Walmart parking lots, and every third stoplight on your block are all places where you can find drag strips.
These may be found for a pittance on the used market because Nissan produced a million of them. If you seek long and hard enough, you can find a reasonably decent example for less than $5,000. However, a pre-worshipped, low-mileage 350z won’t be found in this price bracket.
Make sure to thoroughly inspect the transmission when purchasing a 350z, and if at all feasible, attempt to purchase a 350z from a more recent model year. You can always replace the transmission on an older model that is in good condition with a CD009 unitthere are lots of those on the used market.
Another reason to think about purchasing this vehicle is the strong support it receives from the aftermarket, making it quite simple to alter your 350z.
JDM Poster Cars
Being raised with one of these automobiles hanging on your wall implied that you have always wanted one and have fantasized about driving one.
First of all, congrats if you’ve come to the stage in your life where you can actually invest in one of them. Next, let’s look at some of your top choices.
Nissan 300ZX
When the 300zx was introduced in February 1989, it exceeded some of the quickest vehicles of the time. Some of these vehicles cost well over $120,000, but a $30,000 Nissan defeated them!
Even while it is still a Nissan, there’s no denying that this is one of their most beautiful vehicles. It’s also not all form and no purpose in any sense. This device has a ton of power.
There were two engine choices for the Z32:
- the VG30DE 3.0 L V6 and
- VG30DETT V6 Twin-Turbo, 3.0 L.
The VG30DETT produced more than 300 horsepower (in the early 90s). There is nothing like a twin-turbo 300ZX if you can find one that hasn’t been mistreated.
Fortunately, the value of this car hasn’t increased dramatically yet, but given its history, it very well may. This will soon become a classic.
Nissan R33 Skyline GTS-T (Spec 2)
The fabled R34 Skyline is getting more and more out of reach every day as costs increase to an exorbitant level, at least for those of us who are on a budget.
The R33 GTS-T is a fantastic substitute for both the R33 GT-R and the R34 due to its significantly lower price. With a 2.5-liter straight-six turbocharged engine producing 280 horsepower, this vehicle can outperform the majority of the other vehicles on this list. The R33 Skyline is not prohibited from entering the USA, unlike the later model, however there are some importation requirements.
And it looks fantastic, just like the R34.
It has held up well over time. The ride quality is fairly liveable and not as stiff as you might expect from a car of this kind. The R33 is a hassle-free daily driver that may also be used on the racetrack.
Mazda FD RX7
Nothing is more beautiful than the FD RX-7. This car’s designer Yochi Sato done a fantastic job. One of the most cherished JDM vehicles of all time is the third and final edition of the RX-7 series.
These items are today difficult to locate, especially the well-kept ones. You are well aware of how crucial it is to acquire a well-maintained example when purchasing anything with a rotary engine.
Over 200 hp and a respectable 216 lb-ft are produced by the 13B-REW power plant’s 1.3L engine. Massive power is the rotary ultra-small engine’s charm.
Keep an eye out for older model years that have recently been taken off the prohibited list if you want to get one of them.
Toyota Supra MK4
About the MK4 Supra, a lot has been stated. This vehicle is a living legend and need no introduction. Some fans may claim that the MK4 Supra is overrated, and some even publicly despise it.
However, nothing alters the reality that the value of the Supra has increased. A lot. particularly in light of how old it is. And there’s a good explanation for it.
Everything makes sense if you disregard the marketing hype and see the Supra for what it is. It is an amazing piece of equipment and demands respect.
It should come as no surprise that the MK4 Supra is so well-liked by the automotive community with its driver-focused cockpit-style interiors, rocking 2JZ-GTE engine, and Getrag V160 transmission.
If you do decide to get one and plan to stay driving it for a while, we advise against going beyond 600 horsepower, which is the maximum amount of power Toyota initially intended to produce with the Supra.
Yes, it can handle more than 1000 horsepower, but if you want to keep it in good shape and use it for a long time, we recommend using a low boost setting.
JDM Icons
These vehicles must be included in any list of JDM cars in order to be considered complete. These automobiles are nevertheless enjoyable to own and operate, even if you choose a J-spec model.
Here are a few of the most well-known JDM vehicles that inspired fans all around the world and affected the JDM scene as we know it today.
Toyota Celica GT-Four ST185 (All-Trac Turbo)
The JDM craze was sparked by the Celica GT-Four, which holds a particular place in American automotive history.
The GT-Four was already creating waves and taking home trophies before the Evo and WRX were even sighted on rally circuits.
The GT-Four ST185, the first Japanese AWD vehicle to compete in the World Rally Championship, won the Driver’s Championship in 1990. It defeated every opponent from Europe.
So think about the GT-Four if you want a genuine JDM legend with some history. It has a 16-valve, 2.0 L twin-turbo 3S-GTE engine with a center locking differential, full-time AWD, a limited-slip differential, and a number of other characteristics that were quite uncommon in the late 1980s.
The ST185 was marketed as the All-Trac Turbo in the United States, and Turbo 4WD in Canada and Europe.
The most potent and expensive Celica ever sold in the US was the All-Trac Turbo. It accelerates from 0 to 60 in 7.9 seconds and covers the quarter mile at 88 mph in 15.9 seconds.
Because the first, second, and third gears are shorter, torque begins to develop as early as 3200 rpm and is usable. However, the fourth and fifth gears are somewhat tall. As a result, plan on shifting frequently if you need to pass another vehicle on the freeway.
Toyota AE86 (Corolla Sport GT-S)
Possibly the most recognizable JDM vehicle on this list is the Toyota AE86. The Hachi-Roku was once considered to be a dull subcompact automobile. The next thing you know, it’s ruling the world of motorsports, including, unsurprisingly, drifting, Group A, rally, touring, etc.
But that just accounts for a portion of what makes it famous. The key factor is because it starred in Initial-D, an anime you will be familiar with if you watched ThunderCats as a kid.
Join the Takumi hype train now! The AE86 was a common element in numerous drift games after Initial-D. The popularity of this vehicle peaked, which resulted in an increase in the cost of ownership. quite pricey. Unless you choose the SR5 over the GT-S.
But don’t misunderstand usthe 86 isn’t just flash and no steak. With a curb weight of 2,200 pounds, almost ideal weight distribution, and a rev-happy 4A-GE engine, this beast is one of the fastest and most entertaining vehicles to drive.
The AE86’s achievement is justifiable. Both in the real world and in fiction, it excelled. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, you’ll realize how tactile and analog it is.
In America, the AE86 was marketed as the Corolla GT-S. The DX and SR5, which were essentially lower trim levels, were also available. Find a reasonably priced, reasonably well-maintained SR5 and you’ve got yourself a deal.
Honda S2000
The first and only low-cost rear-wheel-drive Honda to ever be produced A symbol is the S2000. It is the epitome of accuracy and possesses all the essential components of the ideal roadster.
It has a convertible top, a superbike-like engine, and the best handling of any roadsternot even the Miata. Given that the S2000 is track-oriented, this isn’t a fair comparison, but you get the idea.
There is a ton of aftermarket assistance available for S2K owners. Coilovers, lowering springs, wheels, sway bars, seats, intake systems, turbochargers, superchargers, roll bars, and a ton more changes are to be expected.
However, it is becoming more difficult to find them in good shape, so if you are truly interested in purchasing one, look right away.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evo is unmatched in the world of JDM tuner vehicles. With a good driver at the wheel, this performance-focused, no-frills sedan can rival some of the fastest vehicles on the road. It can even keep up with a Ferrari all day.
A vehicle of that kind would be expected to act out at the least driver, yet this is not the case. The Evo is surprisingly forgiving; its AWD and dynamic center differential enable more aggressive driving.
The active yaw control is another innovation that contributed to the Evo’s ease of maneuverability on the track. It should be noted that this feature was never included in the USDM Evos, which may be a good thing considering how frequently it fails and how expensively it must be fixed.
If you intend to import a JDM Evo with active yaw control, keep that in mind. Consider looking at the Tommi Makinen Edition Evo 6.5 if you want to own a genuine JDM Evo.
You will receive Mitsubishi’s iconic 4G63an engine, which dates back to the company’s peak in motorsport, as long as you don’t choose an Evo X to alter.
Toyota MR2 SW20
The Toyota MR2 is in a class by itself as the undisputed mid-engined king of snap-oversteer and the origin of the 4AGE. It’s one of the least forgiving vehicles to operate since, up until a mistake, it gives you a false sense of confidence and makes you feel like a pro racer.
But even with all the hype, the MR2 is a genuinely capable vehicle. Over 100 lb-ft more torque can be handled by the turbocharged versions’ transmissions than the normally aspirated counterpart.
Check for rust, especially on the bottom bodywork just in front of the back wheels, if you choose to purchase one of them. Perform a coolant cleanse, look for engine knock, and radiator leaks.
Toyota Supra A70 MK3
Few people inquire as to what generation a Supra is when they hear the phrase; the majority immediately think of the MK4 Supra. The worst model in the Supra lineup is the A70 or MK3 variation.
It was never given the respect it deserved because the MK4’s hoopla eclipsed it. However, looking back, that’s a good thing because it decreased its worth.
A naturally aspirated straight-six 7M-GE and a single turbocharged 7M-GTE were the two engine choices for the MK3. Both engines have an alloy head, two overhead cams, and four valves per cylinder.
In comparison to the MK4, these are much easier to find because Toyota sold a quarter of a million of them. And far less expensive.
If you can find an MK3 in reasonably good shape, you’ll receive fantastic value for your money thanks to the MK3’s strong aftermarket.
You will possess a Supra, but not the Supra. This JDM highway missile with a straight-6 engine can really eat up miles. It feels more like a GT car than a pure sports car because of its long wheelbase and roomy, comfortable interior.
Nissan S13: 180SX / 240SX / Silvia
For many years, Nissan’s storied S-chassis lineup dominated the drifting scene. Even today, a few of these automobiles may be seen drifting at well-attended events all over the world.
The illustrious Nissan S-Chassis was also known as the 180SX, 200SX, and 240SX. Japan, Europe, and North America were the three distinct markets where they were separately sold. Japan also made it available under the Silvia name.
Of the three S-Chassis vehicles, the S13 (240SX) has proven to be the greatest throughout time. Since the S15 was the final S-Chassis model built until 2002, some would contend that it was the best of the three. However, it won’t be until 2024 that you may legally import goods into the US.
The renowned SR20DET engine was installed in the S13 models sold in Europe and Japan while the KA24DE engine was installed in the models sold in North America. Because of this, the majority of S13 owners in the US decide to replace their engines, with LS swaps becoming more and more popular. In Japan, earlier models also included the less well-known but incredibly dependable CA18DET.
Despite the fact that it could be challenging to locate, if you want to purchase one of them, be sure you locate a stock, unaltered example.