Until recently, purchasing a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicle in the U.S. was a real hassle. Our strict import laws only allow vehicles to be imported into the country after they have reached 25 years of age. The floodgates opened when the R32 Nissan Skyline reached its 25th birthday and dealerships popped up all over the country specializing in Japanese direct imports. With these vehicles now arriving in the U.S. by the boatload (literally), the time has never been better to pick one up for yourself. Much like the meteoric rise of the BMW E30 M3, older Japanese vehicles are skyrocketing in resale value. So whether you are an automotive collector, a gearhead who wants to tinker, or you just want something different to commute in, these are the top five classic JDM cars you should buy.
Nissan R32 GT-R
This one should come as no surprise. The Nissan Skyline GT-R is an automotive icon, with the car being featured in numerous video games and movies. The Nissan Skyline was a mysterious beast to enthusiasts in the U.S. for many years, but no longer. The Skyline GT-R (R32) achieved near-mythical status in racing, as it was dubbed “Godzilla” by the Australians when it dominated the Australian Touring Car Championship in 1990. Currently, all generations of the Skyline, from the C10 through the R34 are rapidly climbing in value, especially in the GT-R trim level. The GT-R is the most desirable due to low production numbers and racing heritage. Clean R32 GT-Rs are currently selling for $30,000-$40,000. The coveted R34 will finally be legal to import in 2024.
Toyota SW20 MR2 (Turbo)
The hidden gem of this list that has only recently received the praise it deserves is the SW20 Toyota MR2. Inspired by Italian supercars of its day, the mid-engine layout offers enthusiasts an exhilarating driving experience paired with Toyota reliability. Prices on these cars will likely rise since they were produced in low quantities and continue to increase in popularity. The GT and GT-S models are the most desirable due to the fact that these trim levels rolled out of the factory with a turbocharged engine, the 3S-GTE. You can currently pick these cars up for $10,000-$20,000.
Mazda FD RX-7
The true definition of a sports car, the Mazda RX-7 is another car on our list that shouldn’t surprise anyone. Similar to the Skyline, the RX-7 exploded in popularity due in part to its numerous appearances in films and video games. Unlike the Skyline, the RX-7 was sold in the U.S., but finding a clean, low-mileage example today can be difficult. The FD is widely regarded as one of the best-looking cars to ever come out of Japan. A multitude of examples being imported into the ‘States are low-mileage and have trim levels that were not offered domestically. Better yet, some have been built by premier tuning shops that we did not previously have access to. With no pistons, no valves, and a screaming redline, the rotary engine offers a unique driving experience. A prime example will sell in the $25,000-$35,000 range.
Toyota Soarer GT-T
The true definition of a sports car, the Mazda RX-7 is another car on our list that shouldn’t surprise anyone. Similar to the Skyline, the RX-7 exploded in popularity due in part to its numerous appearances in films and video games. Unlike the Skyline, the RX-7 was sold in the U.S., but finding a clean, low-mileage example today can be difficult. The FD is widely regarded as one of the best-looking cars to ever come out of Japan. A multitude of examples being imported into the ‘States are low-mileage and have trim levels that were not offered domestically. Better yet, some have been built by premier tuning shops that we did not previously have access to. With no pistons, no valves, and a screaming redline, the rotary engine offers a unique driving experience. A prime example will sell in the $25,000-$35,000 range.
