As described by some as Japan’s version of Hot Wheels, JDM cars are Japanese cars that aren’t sold in the U.S. or most countries. But what makes these vehicles so unique that they’re worth importing from overseas? And why does it seem like there are an unlimited number of JDM cars out there? If you want to learn about this mysterious world of JDM cars, keep reading!
Getting Started
Many people don’t know about them, but there is a whole niche community that is obsessed with Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars. This includes those who are passionate about fixing them up and modifying them. These cars have a unique blend that draws in their crowd – these can be found at specialty shops and other events like car shows and even through websites like JDM Sport Classics. A common feature that many tend to look for in JDM cars is what is known as an RB26DETT engine – which is a motor built initially by Nissan for models sold in Japan only.
Honda/Acura
Many people don’t know much about Hondas and Acuras. Honda produces models that fall under both brand names, making things confusing for consumers interested in these types of cars. Some cars, like Civic and Accord models, fall under both brands. Other cars, like NSX supercars, were never branded as Hondas but still fall into that category. If you’re interested in learning more about JDM cars and how they differ from standard imports, continue reading to understand better what makes them so popular worldwide.
Toyota
An excellent place to start is one of Japan’s own: Toyota. There’s a reason why they sell millions and millions of cars each year, and it isn’t just their competitive pricing. For years now, Toyota has been cranking out more reliable, efficient, and fuel-friendly vehicles than any other company in its class.
While we can talk all day about how great a company like Toyota is, we should probably stop here because plenty of other Japanese automakers has produced models that have caught our eye. Some lesser-known jdm cars include Honda’s Accord Hybrid, Nissan’s 370Z Nismo Edition, or Subaru’s BRZ Performance Package.
Nissan
Japan, like most other countries, uses a left-hand drive system. To sell cars in their home country, many car manufacturers—such as Toyota, Nissan, and Honda-designed right-hand drive versions of their cars to be driven on Japan’s often tight streets.
Although these vehicles are usually rare outside of Japan (and typically very expensive), they can sometimes be found in dealerships or online auctions. If you don’t mind driving on the wrong side of the road, importing a right-hand drive vehicle could save you thousands over buying a brand new one in your country.
Mitsubishi
In 1987, Mitsubishi was Japan’s top automaker and had just come off a string of successful high-performance, sporty cars. Its sport-sedan turbo, high-performance twin-turbo, and supercharged models were popular, but they never made it to American soil. It makes sense then that America would be left wanting after Mitsubishi fell on hard times in 2007.
Subaru
The word Subaru comes from an ancient Japanese word meaning unite or join. Its logo is a six-pointed star that represents bringing together different ideas and uniting them under one concept. Subaru has many models under its brand; some are for everyday driving, others for racing and motorsports. The Subaru BRZ, for example, is considered a race car but still goes fast enough to satisfy daily drivers. Here you will learn about junk cars that you can buy for $500 cash.
Other Makes and Models
If you’re not interested in buying a used Nissan Skyline GT-R or Honda Civic Si, other Japanese performances and tuner cars are less popular than they used to be—but which could still be right for you. The Subaru Legacy RS is one of those vehicles that fell by the wayside when Subaru’s newer WRX line outshined it.
And if you want an aggressively styled sedan with plenty of power, a front-wheel-drive HKS Legnum (from 1993 to 1997) is hard to beat—especially at their reasonable prices. When shopping for these vehicles, ensure your budget will include getting a key made and changing your oil.