JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars are becoming increasingly popular among global car enthusiasts due to their unique designs, advanced technology, and high-performance capabilities. However, due to import restrictions, many of these cars have been off-limits to car enthusiasts in the United States. But as time passes, more and more JDM cars are becoming eligible for import, and there are some exciting options on the horizon. Here are five awesome JDM cars that will soon be legal to import to the US, and a bit on why they are so special:
Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)
The Nissan Skyline GT-R is a legendary sports car that has been popular among enthusiasts for decades. The R34 model, which was produced from 1999-2002, is particularly coveted due to its powerful 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged engine that produces more than 300 horsepower. The car’s all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension also contribute to its exceptional handling and driving dynamics. The R34 is also well-known for its striking design, which includes a sleek, aerodynamic body and distinctive round tail lights. For the best bang for your buck, look for a V-spec model.
Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
The Mazda RX-7 is another iconic JDM sports car that has gained a cult following among enthusiasts. The Series 8 FD3S model, produced from 1998-2002, is especially desirable due to its limited production and rotary engine, which produces up to 276 horsepower. The car’s lightweight construction and agile handling make it a joy to drive, and its distinctive design, with its pop-up headlights and sleek lines, turns heads wherever it goes.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, produced from January 1999 to August 2001, is a high-performance rally car that has become a cult favorite among JDM enthusiasts. The car’s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces up to 276 horsepower, and its all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension give it exceptional handling and driving dynamics. The car’s aggressive styling, with its oversized spoiler and rally-inspired body kit, also contributes to its appeal.
Honda S2000 (AP1)
The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster that was produced from 1999-2009. First out of the factory was the AP1 model, which ended production in 2003. It is in particularly sought-after due to its high-revving 2.0-liter engine, which produces in the realm of 240 horsepower. The car’s front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout and excellent chassis balance give it exceptional handling, and its simple, elegant design is timeless. If you can, get your hands on a the JDM F20C version, as these had the highest power ouput of the era.
Subaru WRX STI (GC8)
The Subaru WRX STI is a high-performance version of the popular WRX compact sedan. While GC8 production began in 1992, it ended in 2000, which means Subaru had eight years to find tune these models, and that they did. For clarity, G=Impreza; C=Sedan and 8= EJ20 (2.0 boxer engine). The 1999-2000 models are the last of the bunch and several limited editions that never sold in the US are now highly regarded in the US. If you want a specific one, we know where to find it. Read on…
In conclusion, JDM cars have long been popular among car enthusiasts, and as more models become eligible for import, the excitement only grows. The five cars mentioned above, the Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34), Mazda RX-7 (FD3S), Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, Honda S2000 (AP1), and 1999-2000 Subaru WRX STI (GC8), are just a few of the exciting options that will soon be available to American enthusiasts. If you want one, be sure to reach out to The Import Guys, one of the top importers of JDM cars in America. They will find any JDM car you desire. If you want a car that is not yet eligible, but want a great deal, they can buy it now and hold it in Japan until it is legal to import! Pretty sweet.
