The Japanese car market has produced some of the greatest cars of all time over the last century. If you are a fan of unusual cars and innovative designs, they never disappoint and offer quality, functionality, and fun performance.
However, some popular Japanese cars were not mass-produced, and this limited production run is one of the things that makes them so popular.
Continue reading below, where we explore some of the rarest JDM cars of all time and what makes each vehicle so popular.
Subaru Impreza 22B STI
Subaru built the WRX with the World Rally Championship in mind, and it did not take long for the model to achieve success and shoot to great heights, holding the title of one of the ‘greatest rally cars of all time’.
In 1997, Subaru decided to produce the limited edition Impreza 22B STI as an off shoot of this success. With an upgraded engine and five-speed manual transition that powers all four wheels, many praised it as a joy to drive.
Toyota 2000GT
The 60’s produced some of the most iconic sports cars, including the Jaguar E-Type and Lamborghini Miura. Toyota wanted to prove that they could also create sports cars to rival these car-world giants, so, the 2000GT was produced.
The Toyota 2000GT did not disappoint car enthusiasts, and it quickly became a firm favourite thanks to its design and powerful engine.
Nissan Skyline GT-R Nismo Z-Tune
The Skyline GTR Nismo Z-Tune was a special model made to mark the 20th anniversary of Nissan’s Nismo division. Made in extremely limited numbers, 20, in fact, these cars were rare upgrades of the existing R34 GT-R.
These upgrades included carbon-fiber bodywork for weight reduction, upgraded suspension and performance Brembo brakes.
They also upgraded the engine as a part of the z tune package, resulting in a much higher power output.
Honda NSX
With multiple generations released, the Honda NSX, a two-seater, the mid-engine coupe has become a flagship of the Honda range. With a great power output, an advanced drivetrain and great performance, the second generation is living up to the high standards of the first generation.
Mazda Miata Coupe
The late 90s brought us the coupe version of the ever-popular Mazda Miata, or MX-5, as it is also known. The car features a roof and rear window, like its sibling the third-generation Mazda RX-7. However, this car remained only a concept and was never mass-produced like the original MX-5 we know and love today.
Nissan Skyline GT-R Nismo 400r
Nissan Motorsports, or Nismo as it is also known, has generated some pretty impressive cars over time. Its collaboration work on the R33 Skyline GTR produced the incredible 400r.
This car featured an improved RB26DETT engine with an upgraded oil system, high-lift camshafts, a large exhaust manifold, a limited-slip differential, upgraded rods and a higher-output turbocharger.
Toyota Supra TRD 3000GT
When it comes to thinking of a Toyota sports car, the first thing that pops to mind is the Toyota Supra. The Mk4 Supra is a popular model amongst those into collecting cars, however, the Supra TRD 3000GT is a model that even collectors can’t get their hands on.
This car came with upgraded suspension and other add-ons that essentially made it the road-legal version of the TRD Supra built for the Japanese Grand Touring Championship.
In fact, there were only 35 Supra TRD 3000GTs made, making it one of the rarest JDM cars around.
Nissan Figaro
If there is anything that the Japanese Domestic Market is known for, it is their fun front-engine front-wheel drive cars. The Nissan Figaro is all that and more.
At first glance, you’ll likely think that the Nissan Figaro is a classic car, but they were actually produced in 1991, placing it in the same production years as the famous 5th generation Nissan Skyline GTR.
The interior is just as stylish as the outside, with light-coloured leather seats and a steering wheel to match.
Nissan Pao
With a top speed of 87 miles per hour, the Nissan Pao isn’t your next race car, but if you’re looking for a JDM car that channels the fun styling that the Japanese market has to offer, the Nissan Pao is the right choice.
With great fuel economy and modern features such as air conditioning and power steering, and both a five-speed manual transmission and 3-speed automatic transmission to top it off, these little cars are certainly fun to drive.
Nissan Fairlady Z 432
Boasting the same engine as the Skyline 2000 GTR, the Nissan Fairlady Z 432 was an offshoot of the incredibly popular first-generation Z car. This is the same Z car that spawned an impressive legacy that lasts to this day and has cemented itself in history amongst JDM car fans.
Insuring Your JDM Vehicle
Whether you’re looking at purchasing your dream Nissan Skyline GTR, or you’re the proud owner of a Eunos Roadster, we offer specialist Japanese Import Car Insurance. Get in touch today to discuss your vehicle and make sure that you have the right insurance policy for your vehicle.
