(#11) Toyota MR2
- Toyota
Years: 1984-1989
The "Mister Two" was the first affordable mid-engine platform built for the masses. The moment you feel the legendary 4AG motor purr to life behind you, it’s evident the car was built to have fun. The Toyota A series motor was the first mass-produced engine featuring 4-5 valves per cylinder. These motors average a humble 115hp stock, but the MR2 chassis weighs in at a featherweight 2,300 pounds. Plus, the mid-engine layout gives these cars Spider-Man like grip, clocking in on the skidpad at over 0.80. Considering its groundbreaking design - and those beautiful, Katana inspired body lines - the MR2 is considered one of the best Japanese cars ever made.
(#14) Fifth Generation Toyota Pickup
Years: 1989-1997
The humble Toyota Pick-up, dubbed the Hilux in Japan, is a reliable and dedicated workhorse. They are powered by the legendary 22-RE motor and an uncanny ability to survive conditions that would destroy most other cars. In season 3, Episode 5, “The Indestructible Hilux,” Top Gear tried to kill one of these trucks by pushing it through extreme scenarios, including dropping it from a crane and dumping it into the English Channel. Remarkably, no matter what Jeremy Clarkson and James May tried, the truck started each time without the aid of spare parts. Long live the Hilux!
(#22) Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- Mitsubishi
Years: 1992-1995
Lancers had already been tearing up Japanese tarmac since 1992 by the time they were brought to the States by popular demand in 2003. Hop into one of these cars, and you'll be immediately impressed by how the torque from the four-cylinder motor pushes you back into your seat. It’s nigh impossible to find out actual stats on these power plants because Mitsubishi purposely downgrades their factory outputs, but they pull around 300 horsepower out of those inline fours. They must have wizards using dark magic to accomplish it, along with forced induction. All their production years are amazing, but the first two generations stand out with their classic Japanese design.
(#17) Datsun 510
- Datsun
Years: 1967-1973
The 510 is a lovechild of Kazumi Yotsumoto, one of the founders of Nissan-Datsun. Affectionately known as "Mr. K," Yotsumoto-san was inspired by experiences racing Datsun 210s through the insane 10,100 mile Australian Mobilgas Rally. He was also inspired by German car manufacturers, especially the rugged, nimble, and fun BMW Neue Klasse 1600. From this amalgamation came the Datsun 510, called the “Bluebird” in Japan - a reliable “driver’s car” that has seen many a rally finish since its inception.
(#3) Honda NSX
- Honda
Years: 1990-2005
The NSX is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with the nimble agility of a panther, and sounds as rich as a symphony. It was created under the mad-scientist like vision of Honda’s co-founder, lead engineer, and “Supreme Advisor,” Soichiro Honda. Honda-san wanted to do the impossible: design a supercar without compromise. $140 million dollars and a decade of R&D later, and the company known for its hatchbacks and scooters shocked the world with this highly exotic, mid-engine, two seater. The NSX was the first production car to feature VTEC. There's hardly a car nowadays that doesn’t feature some version of variable valve timing - you can thank the NSX for that.(#1) Nissan Skyline GT-R
- Nissan
Years: 1969-Present
Originally designed by Prince Motor Company before merging with Nissan-Datsun in 1969, we didn't get these beautiful cars in the States until 2007. It's about impossible to pick a favorite generation of classic Skylines. The first and second gens have that lovely Pony car inspired design, but the later years feature all-wheel drive and jaw-dropping amounts of power and tech. Whichever Skyline you choose, you're going to drive away happy and be the envy of your fellow gearheads.
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Japanese cars have won a large market worldwide with their affordable prices, fuel-saving performance, and excellent workmanship. From off-road vehicles to affordable sports cars to luxury coupes, the following are the most popular major Japanese car brands: Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Subaru, Mazda, etc. Japanese cars continue to guide changes in demand instead of changing models when they are unsalable, which is also one of the success factors.
This random tool generates 25 items, including the best and well-known car brands. If you are looking for a classic Japanese car, you can view information and pictures of various cars here. These cars are well received at appearance and price.
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