CLASSIC NEVER DIES

JDM Legends: Top 5 Cars Not Available in the US!

Honorary Mentions & What's Our #1?

Honorable Mentions: Nissan Silvia S15, Honda NSX-R & Mazda RX-7 Spirit R
The Nissan Silvia S15 is a standout in the JDM world, known for its sleek design and rear-wheel-drive performance. Powered by the SR20DET turbocharged engine, it’s a favorite among drifting enthusiasts for its agility and tuning potential, despite never being officially available in the U.S.

White Nissan S15 parked under trees hanging over the car — *Source: Flikr via Andy Pang*

White Nissan Silvia S15 parked under some trees with the headlights on — *Source: Flikr via Andy Pang*

The Mazda RX-7 Spirit R represents the pinnacle of the RX-7 series. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged rotary engine, it offers refined performance and exclusivity, making it one of the most coveted rotary-powered sports cars ever produced.

Grey Mazda RX7 Spirit R driving through a canyon passing rocks driving on an asphalt road — Nothing like the Mazda Spirit of a rotary engine roaring through the canyons!
Source: Brendan McAleer

Grey Mazda RX7 Spirit R parked in front of a white garage door with red pipes behind it

Triangular shield badge that says Spirit R RX7 next to a turn signal light

The Honda NSX-R is the ultimate track-focused version of the iconic NSX. Known for its lightweight construction and precision handling, the NSX-R delivers an unparalleled driving experience, making it a purist’s choice in the JDM lineup.

White Honda NSX-R driving on a racetrack with the sunsetting in the background — *Source: Honda*

Black badged rear spoiler wing of a white Honda NSX-R with black background behind the car — *Source: Honda*

#1 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32 – R34)
The Nissan Skyline GT-R series, spanning from the R32 to the R34, is the epitome of JDM performance. Powered by the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six engine, these cars offered unparalleled power and advanced technology for their time. The R32 earned the nickname “Godzilla” for its dominance in motorsport, particularly in Group A racing. The R34, with its refined aerodynamics and cutting-edge ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system, is often hailed as the pinnacle of the series. These models were never officially sold in the USA during their production years, adding to their mystique and desirability among JDM fans.

Blue Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 parked in front of a building that has a large sign on it with a man standing next to the car on the passenger side — Larry Chen and his Bayside Blue Nissan GT-R R34
Source: Larry Chen

Grey Nissan R32 driving on a highway road with its lights on — *Source: Evan Klein*

Silver R34 Skyline driving through a tunnel with several lights in the background and white solid lines on the roadway — *Source: Evan Klein*

Silver R33 Skyline with decals on the side of the car parked with the sun setting behind mountains in the background — Nissan Skyline GT-R R33
Source: Crvn

Whether from the iconic Nissan Skyline GT-Rs and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolutions that redefined performance, to the nimble Suzuki Cappuccino and the versatile Mitsubishi Evo lineage, each vehicle offers something unique. Many JDM cars have and still do capture the hearts of enthusiasts with their precision engineering and distinctive character. While these incredible machines were once out of reach for American fans, the good news is that many are now being imported into the states in recent years. This opens the door for enthusiasts to finally experience these JDM legends firsthand and fully embrace the excitement and heritage they bring.