If you're on a budget but still want to get your hands on some of the best JDM cars around, there are still plenty of options available to you. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
That's where we come in. We've compiled a list of ten great used JDM classics that won't break the bank. All of these cars are between $12,000 and $70,000, which means they're great for buyers who want something that looks cool but aren't willing or able to spend more on the most expensive models.
10 $12,000+ Toyota Chaser JZX100
If you're looking for an affordable way to get into Japanese car culture, the Toyota Chaser JZX 100 is your ticket. This JDM classic is famous for its reliability and affordability since it was first introduced in 1996—and now it's ready for you at roughly $12,000.
TheJDM classics Chaser comes with the legendary 1 JZ which is a 6-cylinder turbocharged beast that's capable of some serious power when modded. The best part? You can easily modify it yourself!
9 $15,000+ Nissan Silvia S13
The Silvia S13 has been around since 1989, and you'll see why people love these cars so much when you get behind the wheel for yourself! It's got enough power to have some fun. It handles like a dream and looks great too!
Plus, the price tag is pretty low at $15k compared to other cars from this era—which means you can get an amazing deal on one if you know where to look!
8 $16,000+ Nissan 240SX
If you're looking for a JDM classic that's going to give you a lot of bang for your buck, check out the Nissan 240SX. These cars are still very sought-after by enthusiasts, but we can have them for as little as $16,000.
They produced the 240SX from 1989 to 1998 and enthusiasts still love it because it has great handling and because it is relatively easy to work on. The car's stock engine puts out 155 HP, which isn't too shabby for a two-door coupe from the 1990s.
7 $19,000+ Nissan Silvia S14
Another good option is the Nissan Silvia S14. They built this car from 1993 through 1999 and it has an inline-4 engine known as the SR20DE and SR20DET engines.
It's also got a great body style with swooping curves and angles that give it an aggressive look, and it comes in at around $19k for a good clean one.
6 $22,000+ Nissan Silvia S15
The Nissan Silvia S15 is an absolute legend in the JDM car collector's world. The Silvia is an affordable classic with a lot of power, making it perfect for anyone who's just starting out with their JDM obsession.
If your budget is $22K and looking for a sporty and reliable car that can handle anything thrown at it, this is your ride.
5 $22,000+ Toyota AE86 Corolla
The Toyota AE86 Corolla is a classic for a reason. It's got an aesthetic that will never go out of style, and it's built like a tank.
The Toyota AE86 Corolla is an amazing car for all kinds of reasons; it's light and fast, it handles well and has great steering, it's got enough power to get you where you need to go, and it's reliable (as far as old cars go). Plus, it looks cool as hell. It's also cheap—you can pick them up for about $22,000.
4 $33,000+ Mazda RX-7 FD
But if you think that's great, wait until you hear about the Mazda RX-7 FD! It was one of the last cars made by Mazda before they stopped using the iconic rotary engine and started making boring compact hatchbacks.
With a top speed of over 155 mph and an engine that can rev up to 9000 rpm, this is truly one of the most special cars ever made. And it only costs $33k+ on the classic.com website!
3 $42,000+ Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32)
And if you're looking for something more luxurious with plenty of room to stretch out? Try the Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32), which sells for as low as $42,000.
But what makes this JDM classic even more special is that it's relatively affordable compared to other performance cars from that era.
2 $65,000+ 1st Gen Acura NSX
The first generation Acura NSX was an incredible sports car in its own right—when it came out in 1991 and became the first Japanese supercar sold in the U.S., it revolutionized what we expected from our high-performance vehicles.
The is famous for its high-performance capabilities thanks to its mid-engine layout and powerful engine options. Many people also praised the car's styling because it looked like nothing else on the road at that time (or even now). At $65k it's not exactly cheap but when you look at how special this car is you will see it's worth every penny.
1 $68,000+ Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33)
Lastly at $68k is the Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33). This car has been around since 1989 and still looks amazing today as one of Japan's most popular sports cars ever made. It has an amazing engine, chassis, and suspension setup that makes it a one-of-a-kind driving experience.
It doesn't matter whether you're racing or just cruising around town; this car will make you feel like a boss no matter what.