Motor

Top 10 Japanese cars in history

Japanese cars are synonymous with power, design and innovation. Japanese brands have traditionally been recognized for their sports cars, in which it is possible to find the latest technological advances applied to driving. At the same time, they are responsible for economical and efficient utility models, which everyone likes.

Asian car brands such as KIA are known for making affordable and efficient utility models. These cars are highly appreciated by drivers, as they have the best features and the latest technologies at prices suitable for any pocket. This is why these are cars that are sold all over the world.

On the other hand, Japanese car brands, in addition to utility vehicles, are often famous for their sports cars and large displacement cars. Some of the most recognized car models of all time have come out of the Land of the Rising Sun. These cars, which have become classics, have the main characteristics of the Japanese engine; a modern and daring design, sports performance and latest generation engines.

Many of these models have become true legends for motor lovers, laying the foundations for the cars that came after. If you are a fan of the motor world, do not miss the best Japanese cars in history.

1. Nissan Datsun 240Z

Nissan is one of the best Japanese car brands and the Datsun 240Z is one of its most iconic models , since it inaugurates the “Z” line of sports cars. It appeared in 1976 and was the Japanese market’s answer to European sports cars and American muscle cars. 

The coupé-type design, halfway between a sports car and a muscle car, became a motoring icon. The 240Z would be the first in a series of great Japanese sports cars from Nissan which, over time, has refined the range with the 300Z, 350Z and 370Z offering cars with racing performance.

2.Honda Civic Type-R

The Honda Civic Type-R has become one of the most popular and best-selling Japanese cars in history. It is the sixth generation of Civic to which the weight was reduced and the gearbox was changed , for which the Honda Integra used to carry. In addition, it was equipped with a front differential system with slip limitation and a reinforced monocoque chassis.

These design choices, coupled with a 185hp, 7,500rpm engine, made it a rally favourite.

3.Mitsubishi Lancer

Mitsubishi has been recognized worldwide for its sports cars, such as the Mitsubishi Lancer EVO, one of the most recognized and sold. It is the Japanese version of the BMW and Mercedes sports sedans. 

This model is one of the most iconic racing cars of the 1990s and early 2000s. A car that has achieved many successes in the WRC (World Rally Championship).

4.Subaru Impreza

The Impreza and Lancer EVO were the Messi and Ronaldo of rallying during the 1990s. Although Subaru’s iconic car has become a compact over time, in 1992 it was quite the beast. In fact, in its time it was one of the best-selling imported Japanese cars in the world.

The Impreza built the first engine with opposed cylinder boxer design. This innovative design decision would become the flagship of the brand, which gradually began to shine in competitions. 

 5.Toyota Prius

If the previous two models competed for the rally crown, the Prius is the undisputed king of hybrid and efficient cars. The first Prius, which never reached the Spanish market, is from 1997 and already had hybrid electric technology. At the time it was an innovative product, with solid construction and good mileage.

Today, Prius is Toyota’s flagship, becoming one of the best-selling models in the world. 

6.Honda NSX

A car created for competition by Ayrton Senna himself. Developed more than 30 years ago, it is quite a chameleon, as it has been adapted to the designs of each decade.

In the 90s, with a 274 hp V6 engine, it was a revolution and was the response of the Japanese brand to American sports cars; especially the Chevrolet Corvette which then completely dominated the market.

7.Mazda RX-7

If you’re looking for an iconic car from the ’80s, the RX-7 is the answer. In the late 1970s, the world of sport utility vehicles was ruled with an iron hand by the Porsche 924. In 1978, Mazda produced a sports car, but for everyday use, with a 105 hp Wankel rotary engine.

8.Toyota Supra

The Toyota Supra was the Japanese brand’s response to the Honda NSX, a sports superclass with a racing spirit. It also had its heyday in the WRC, eclipsing the famous Toyota Celica that reigned in its day. The Supra was the iconic car of Carlos Saiz and Luis Moya, a winning duo of many rallies in the 90s.

9.Mazda MX5

The most iconic model of the Hiroshima brand appeared in 1989. The Mazda MX5 would be the brand’s first roadster and, to this day, the best-selling in history. Its design has changed very little over time, being an easily recognizable two-seater convertible on the road.

10. Suzuki Jimny

The first 4×4 of the Japanese brand and one of the most iconic models in automotive history. It is a compact SUV, very manageable and affordable for all pockets. 

So far our list of the most recognized Japanese cars in history, we hope you have enjoyed them. Now, tune up your car, checking the oil level and changing for the best 5w30 oil like the ones we analyze in this article.

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