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During motor shows and auto exhibits, spectators would flock to where the cars imported from Japan are. Japan has a long and prestigious history of manufacturing the best and most interesting cars the world has seen, and over the years motoring enthusiasts and automotive hobbyists have selected their favorites among the various models released by Japanese manufacturers. Let’s take a look at the following top picks. Honda Civic (1973) – Considered as Honda’s first bestselling model (the Accord would come into the picture three years later), the Civic came to U.S. shores just in time to provide Americans with a car that’s affordable and fuel efficient in the midst of their energy crisis. Toyota Corolla (1966) – When it comes to reliability, nothing can beat the Corolla—an estimated 80 percent of Corollas ever sold are still driving around the world today, and it remains the world’s bestselling vehicle. It’s so reliable it’s one of the first cars to justify the need for a sixth digit on its odometer! Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (1992) – If you’re looking for a street-legal rally car without having to live on food coupons the rest of your life, the Evo is the car to have. Tuners and hobbyists who had this car imported from Japan and have had a go at modifying the Evo are astounded at the car’s high performance, prowess, and sleek style. Nissan Altima Coupe – Nissan did a good job making a coupe version of their flagship sedan. The Altima Coupe’s V6 engine generates an astonishing 270hp, and can easily go head-to-head with the American Pontiac G6. Add to that the car’s advanced variable intake system and CVVT configuration, and you’ve got a winner. Toyota 2000GT (1967) – Another Toyota model that’s close to enthusiasts’ hearts is the 2000GT, considered as Toyota’s first real sports car. This roadster made motorists crazy by setting over a dozen speed and endurance records, being a Bond car in the film You Only Live Twice, and being so valuable it has become a real collector’s item. Mazda MX-5 Miata – Perhaps the most iconic convertible among cars imported from Japan is this sleek and compact offering from Mazda. Just take a look at these specs: 16-valve, 2.0-liter, MZR inline four-cylinder engine, and a curb weight of under a ton and a half. Sweet. Subaru Impreza WRX (1992) – This model’s name is spot-on, because this car is really impressive. Subaru has been producing Imprezas for rallies; the WRX is the model built for the sports car-hungry consumers of the world. Nissan Skyline GT-R (1969, 2008) – Those who have spent their childhoods (and in some cases, adulthoods) playing video games such as Grand Theft Auto and Need for Speed would definitely name the Skyline as one of the best racers ever. It scores high in performance, and is astonishing especially when tuned. Datsun 240Z (1970) – If you’re a teen, or a newly-licensed driver in the Seventies and would like to zoom your way around town, you most likely would like to have a sports car—the “in” thing back then. However, Porsches and Jaguars were ridiculously expensive; even the Toyota 2000GT was beyond the means of the masses. Enter the Datsun 240Z, and the people rejoiced. Among the sports cars imported from Japan, this model was deemed to be one of the most affordable yet high-performing, with its 2.4-liter inline-six engine. As hippies would say, it was rad.
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