When it comes to JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars, most enthusiasts immediately think of legendary models like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, and Honda NSX. These cars have become icons in the automotive world, dominating street racing, track events, and pop culture.
However, Japan has produced a wide variety of vehicles—some unique, some quirky, and some incredibly rare—that never received the same level of international fame. Whether it’s futuristic designs, kei cars with surprising performance, or luxury sedans built for Japan’s elite, there are many hidden gems in JDM history that deserve recognition.
In this list, we’re diving into 10 JDM cars you probably didn’t know existed, each with its own story and character.
1. Toyota Sera (1990-1995) – The Baby McLaren
The Toyota Sera is one of the most futuristic and unique JDM cars ever made, yet it’s rarely talked about. Its most striking feature? Butterfly doors, similar to those found on the McLaren F1—but this was in the early ’90s, long before exotic cars made them famous.
The Sera was powered by a modest 1.5L inline-four engine producing 110 hp, but it wasn’t built for speed—it was all about style and innovation. Its fully glass canopy made the car feel like a spaceship, and its lightweight design made it fun to drive.
While the Sera was never officially sold outside Japan, it has become a collectible among enthusiasts who appreciate its futuristic aesthetic.
2. Nissan Figaro (1991) – Retro Style in a Tiny Package
The Nissan Figaro is a small, retro-styled convertible that looks like something from the 1960s but was actually built in 1991. Nissan’s goal was to create a car that combined classic European aesthetics with modern Japanese engineering.
Under the hood, it had a turbocharged 1.0L engine, making it a peppy and fun little cruiser. Only 20,000 units were produced, making it a rare find today. It’s now beloved by collectors who appreciate its quirky yet stylish design.
3. Honda Beat (1991-1996) – The Kei Roadster That Lives Up to Its Name
The Honda Beat was a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive (MR) roadster that was part of Japan’s kei car segment. Although small, it was incredibly fun to drive. It featured a 660cc naturally aspirated engine with individual throttle bodies, producing just 63 hp—but because it was so lightweight, it didn’t need much more.
The Beat was Honda’s last car personally approved by Soichiro Honda before he passed, making it a significant piece of history for Honda fans.
4. Mazda Autozam AZ-1 (1992-1995) – A Kei Car with Gullwing Doors
If the Honda Beat wasn’t wild enough, Mazda introduced the Autozam AZ-1, a kei car with gullwing doors and a mid-engine layout. It looked like a tiny supercar, and despite its small 660cc engine, it had go-kart-like handling.
Because of its limited production and unique design, the AZ-1 has become a sought-after collector’s car, especially among JDM enthusiasts looking for something truly unique.
5. Mitsubishi Minica Dangan ZZ (1989-1993) – The Hot Hatch You’ve Never Heard Of
Kei cars aren’t just tiny and efficient—some of them are surprisingly fast. The Mitsubishi Minica Dangan ZZ was the first kei car to feature a DOHC turbocharged engine, pushing the kei car horsepower limit of 64 hp to the max.
It was essentially a mini hot hatch, delivering incredible acceleration for its size and weight. Though it remained in Japan, those who have driven one praise its punchy performance and fun driving dynamics.
6. Subaru 22B STi (1998) – The Ultimate WRX That America Never Got
Most car enthusiasts know about the Subaru WRX STI, but few know about the 22B STi—one of the rarest and most desirable Subarus ever made.
Built to celebrate Subaru’s World Rally Championship (WRC) success, the 22B was a limited-edition widebody coupe with a 2.2L turbocharged flat-four engine producing 276 hp. Only 400 units were made for Japan, making it an absolute unicorn in the car world.
Many JDM fans consider the 22B to be the ultimate WRX—one that the U.S. never had the chance to own.
7. Mazda Cosmo 110S
The Mazda Cosmo 110S was Mazda’s first rotary-powered sports car, paving the way for the RX series. With a sleek, futuristic design and a high-revving Wankel engine, it was ahead of its time but produced in limited numbers.
Despite its modest 110-130 horsepower output, the Mazda Cosmo 110S delivered a thrilling driving experience thanks to its lightweight chassis and high-revving rotary engine. Its smooth power delivery and futuristic styling made it a standout in the late ‘60s, competing with European sports cars of the era. With only 1,176 units ever produced, the Cosmo remains a rare collector’s gem, symbolizing Mazda’s bold innovation and its commitment to rotary-powered performance. 🚀
8. Nissan Pao (1989-1991) – A Time Machine on Wheels
The Nissan Pao is another member of Nissan’s “Pike Factory” series, alongside the Figaro and Be-1. It featured a retro-inspired design, resembling a small European hatchback from the ‘60s.
Underneath, it shared parts with more common Nissan models, making it surprisingly reliable. Its charming looks and vintage appeal have made it a favorite among collectors of oddball JDM cars.
9. Toyota Century (1967-Present) – Japan’s Rolls-Royce
While most JDM cars focus on performance, the Toyota Century is all about luxury and prestige. This high-end sedan was built for Japanese dignitaries, CEOs, and even the Emperor.
Older models featured a V12 engine, while modern versions use a hybrid V8. Everything about the Century is handcrafted, from the wool seats to the silent, smooth ride. It’s a car that exudes class, but only a select few in Japan ever get to own one.
10. Isuzu 117 Coupe (1968-1981) – The JDM Grand Tourer
Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Isuzu 117 Coupe was one of Japan’s first true grand touring cars.
It featured Italian styling, a luxurious interior, and even a DOHC engine option, making it an advanced car for its time. While Isuzu isn’t known for sports cars today, the 117 Coupe was proof that they once built some incredible machines.
Conclusion
Japan’s automotive industry is full of surprises. While cars like the Supra, RX-7, and GT-R get most of the attention, there are countless hidden gems that deserve recognition. Whether it’s a tiny kei car with supercar-style doors, a luxury sedan built for royalty, or a limited-edition rally legend, JDM history is packed with underrated classics.
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