Vintage JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars have a unique charm and timeless appeal. Known for their style, performance, and innovation, these classic Japanese cars have captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. Here’s a look at some of the coolest vintage JDM cars we’d love to own.
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Nissan Skyline GT-R (Hakosuka)
The Nissan Skyline GT-R, commonly known as the Hakosuka, was produced from 1969 to 1972 and is a legendary JDM car. Its 2.0-liter inline-six engine produced 160 horsepower, which was impressive for its time. The Hakosuka’s boxy design, flared fenders, and racing pedigree make it a highly sought-after classic. Enthusiasts love it for its performance capabilities and historical significance in motorsports. Customer reviews often praise its handling and timeless aesthetic.
Toyota 2000GT
The Toyota 2000GT, produced from 1967 to 1970, is often considered Japan’s first supercar. Its sleek design and 2.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 150 horsepower, make it an iconic collector’s item. The 2000GT’s rarity, with only 351 units made, adds to its desirability. It is celebrated for its performance, beautiful styling, and role in establishing Japan as a serious contender in the global automotive market. Enthusiasts admire its classic lines and driving experience.
Mazda RX-3
The Mazda RX-3, produced from 1971 to 1978, is beloved for its rotary engine and lightweight design. Its 1.1-liter or 1.2-liter rotary engine provided a unique driving experience with a high-revving nature. The RX-3’s distinctive styling and motorsport success, particularly in touring car racing, make it a cool vintage JDM car. Owners appreciate its nimble handling and the distinct sound of its rotary engine.
Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z, produced from 1969 to 1973, is a classic sports car known for its stylish design and strong performance. Its 2.4-liter inline-six engine produced 151 horsepower, offering a great balance of power and agility. The 240Z’s affordability, reliability, and sleek lines have made it a favorite among collectors. Customer reviews highlight its smooth driving experience and timeless appeal.
Honda S800
The Honda S800, produced from 1966 to 1970, is a compact sports car admired for its high-revving 0.8-liter inline-four engine, producing 70 horsepower. Despite its small size, the S800 delivered an exhilarating driving experience with a top speed of 100 mph. Its lightweight construction and agile handling make it a fun and desirable vintage JDM car. Enthusiasts love its cute design and spirited performance.
Toyota Celica GT (First Generation)
The first-generation Toyota Celica GT, produced from 1970 to 1977, is a stylish coupe known for its reliability and sporty character. Its 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter inline-four engine provided adequate power for a fun driving experience. The Celica GT’s sharp lines, fastback design, and affordability have made it a popular classic car. Owners appreciate its balance of style, performance, and practicality.
Mitsubishi Galant GTO
The Mitsubishi Galant GTO, produced from 1970 to 1977, is a classic muscle car inspired by American muscle cars. Its 1.6-liter, 1.85-liter, or 2.0-liter engines provided various power outputs, with the top 2.0-liter engine producing 125 horsepower. The GTO’s aggressive styling, with its wide stance and sporty design, makes it a standout JDM classic. Enthusiasts admire its bold looks and enjoyable driving dynamics.
Nissan Fairlady Z (S30)
The Nissan Fairlady Z, also known as the Datsun 240Z, was produced from 1969 to 1978 and is a legendary sports car. Its 2.4-liter inline-six engine produced 151 horsepower, offering impressive performance for its time. The Fairlady Z’s sleek design, reliability, and affordability have made it a beloved classic. Customer reviews often highlight its smooth handling and iconic styling.
Subaru 360
The Subaru 360, produced from 1958 to 1971, is a tiny kei car known for its quirky design and affordability. Its 0.4-liter two-cylinder engine produced 16 horsepower, making it a practical and economical choice for post-war Japan. The 360’s compact size and unique appearance have made it a charming classic. Enthusiasts appreciate its historical significance and fun-to-drive nature.
Mazda Cosmo Sport (110S)
The Mazda Cosmo Sport, produced from 1967 to 1972, is famous for being the first car equipped with a rotary engine. Its 1.0-liter twin-rotor engine produced 110 horsepower, delivering a smooth and high-revving performance. The Cosmo Sport’s futuristic design and innovative technology make it a highly desirable vintage JDM car. Owners love its distinctive rotary sound and striking looks.
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40, produced from 1960 to 1984, is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and reliability. Its 3.9-liter inline-six engine provided ample torque for off-road adventures. The FJ40’s boxy design, durability, and off-road capabilities make it a beloved classic. Enthusiasts appreciate its versatility and timeless appeal.
Nissan Bluebird 510
The Nissan Bluebird 510, produced from 1967 to 1973, is a compact sedan known for its performance and affordability. Its 1.6-liter inline-four engine, producing 96 horsepower, offered a fun driving experience. The 510’s success in motorsports, particularly in rally racing, has made it a popular vintage JDM car. Owners love its balanced handling and classic styling.
Honda N600
The Honda N600, produced from 1969 to 1972, is a small city car known for its efficiency and practicality. Its 0.6-liter two-cylinder engine produced 36 horsepower, making it an economical choice for urban driving. The N600’s compact design, reliability, and affordability have made it a charming classic. Enthusiasts appreciate its cute appearance and historical significance as Honda’s first car sold in the US.
Mitsubishi Lancer 1600 GSR
The Mitsubishi Lancer 1600 GSR, produced from 1973 to 1977, is a rally-inspired sedan known for its performance and durability. Its 1.6-liter inline-four engine produced 110 horsepower, offering a spirited driving experience. The 1600 GSR’s success in rally racing, including winning the Safari Rally, has made it a desirable vintage JDM car. Owners love its sporty character and motorsport heritage.
Toyota Crown (S50)
The Toyota Crown S50, produced from 1967 to 1971, is a luxury sedan known for its comfort and elegance. Its 2.0-liter inline-six engine produced 105 horsepower, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. The Crown’s classic design, advanced features for its time, and reputation for reliability make it a cool vintage car. Enthusiasts appreciate its luxurious interior and historical significance.
Datsun 510
The Datsun 510, produced from 1968 to 1973, is a compact sedan known for its performance and versatility. Its 1.6-liter inline-four engine produced 96 horsepower, offering a fun and engaging driving experience. The 510’s success in motorsports, particularly in SCCA racing, has made it a popular vintage JDM car. Owners love its balanced handling, classic design, and affordability.
Mazda RX-7 (SA22C)
The first-generation Mazda RX-7, produced from 1978 to 1985, is a sports car known for its rotary engine and lightweight design. Its 1.1-liter rotary engine produced 100 horsepower, delivering a unique and high-revving performance. The RX-7’s sleek design, nimble handling, and motorsport success make it a desirable vintage JDM car. Enthusiasts appreciate its distinct rotary sound and driving dynamics.
Nissan Silvia (CSP311)
The Nissan Silvia CSP311, produced from 1965 to 1968, is a stylish coupe known for its elegant design and limited production. Its 1.6-liter inline-four engine produced 96 horsepower, offering a refined driving experience. With only 554 units made, the Silvia CSP311 is a rare and highly sought-after classic. Owners love its beautiful lines and exclusive nature.
Subaru BRAT
The Subaru BRAT, produced from 1978 to 1994, is a quirky compact pickup known for its unique design and practicality. Its 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter engine provided adequate power for a versatile and fun driving experience. The BRAT’s rear-facing jump seats and distinctive styling make it a cool vintage JDM car. Enthusiasts appreciate its offbeat charm and utility.
Toyota Corolla (E20)
The Toyota Corolla E20, produced from 1970 to 1978, is a compact sedan known for its reliability and affordability. Its 1.2-liter or 1.6-liter inline-four engine provided efficient and practical performance. The Corolla’s simple design, durability, and widespread popularity have made it a beloved classic. Owners love its dependability and ease of maintenance.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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