The world can never seem to get enough of Japanese sports cars, and while there are models that can be hard to reach like the limited-edition Toyota 2000GT, there are other models that “regular” consumers can afford. Some of these models are still being produced, while others have stopped production and can only be had through car auctions, secondhand dealerships, and from private sellers. Whichever option you choose, there’s sure to be a roadster for your budget. Nissan 370Z – This model has its roots in the Datsun 240Z, introduced to the market in 1969 as an alternative to the expensive sports cars of that time. It became a hit, and soon after Nissan came up with the Nissan GTR, which became known as one of the best sports cars in the world. The GTR is the forerunner of the 370Z, and much of the 370Z’s technologies were adapted from the GTR. The 370Z has a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 332 hp, and can accelerate from zero to sixty mph in just 4.5 seconds. Honda Civic Si – It’s lightweight but has a high-revving 4-cylinder engine: a perfect combination for speed. The 4-cylinder 2.4-liter engine features Honda’s legendary VTEC system, and it generates 201 hp to power the vehicle and drive it to 60mph in just a little over 6 seconds. Mazda RX-7 – The RX-7 stopped production in 2002, but that doesn’t mean motoring enthusiasts like it any less—on the contrary, the RX-7 is one of the most coveted Japanese sports cars because of its unique Wankel rotary engine instead of a traditional piston-driven one. Its power can also be easily boosted by a turbocharger. It is fast, light, and is an affordable quality roadster. Acura NSX – The NSX is a two-door, mid-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe with a 3.0-liter V6 engine. Being a Honda, it also has VTEC and is an affordable alternative because of its low price and even lower maintenance cost. Toyota MR2 – The MR2 was launched in the eighties and had a rear-mounted 4-cylinder engine, which could be supercharged or naturally-aspirated—come again? At that time, such engine specs were unheard of, so you could bet the MR2 was initially regarded as an alien in the motoring world. Eventually it stole people’s hearts because of its excellent performance, and the MR2 is still regarded as one of the best things Toyota has ever made. Toyota Supra – Toyota really made some memorable Japanese sports cars, aside from the collector’s treasure 2000GT. The Supra made a fierce introduction in 1993 in the United States, and it featured the most powerful six-cylinder engine in the Toyota lineup: the 2JZ-GTE. This engine has twin turbochargers, generating 320 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. What makes this model a must-have is that its engine can actually be tuned to produce over a thousand horsepower! You might recognize the Supra in its starring role in the Fast and Furious films—yes, the Supra is really that super. These are just some of the sporty models you can buy for a less expensive price than new ones. Some of these Japanese sports cars may already have some modifications done to make them faster and more powerful, so if you’re a speed junkie you’d better get a move on before someone else drives away with your dream roadster!
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