JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market, referring to the car companies in Japan. Many JDM cars are available on the market, and they are unique because they have different features than their American counterparts. One thing that sets JDM cars apart from American-made cars is their wheel drive system and the styling of the car body itself. Many different JDM cars have RWD (rear-wheel drive), but many more have FWD (front-wheel drive). Here is a list of some RWD JDM cars you may not have known about!
Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is a sports car produced by Subaru. BRZ stands for Boxer engine, Rear-wheel drive, Zenith. The model was unveiled at an event held in Los Angeles on June 24, 2012, with deliveries of both production models and vehicles available in Japan starting on September 20, 2012. The vehicle is also known as Toyota 86/Scion FR-S depending on the region. The BRZ has a starting price of $25,495 (USD) or €20,995 (EUR).
The engine is 2 liters (1.5L) boxer 4-cylinder engine with direct injection rated at 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Depending on your preference, it is mated to either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
Toyota Supra (1998-2002)
The Toyota Supra is an excellent example of a rare Jdm car with rear-wheel drive. The Supra name first appeared in 1978, and for much of its lifetime, it has been known as one of Japan’s high-performance sports cars. (Note: For some years after 1998, Toyota used an unrelated name for their sports car: Apex.)
Although many models were offered over time—from small 2-door coupes to larger 4-door sedans—all Supras have been rear-wheel drive, creating appealing vehicles for driving enthusiasts. In addition to attractive design and spirited performance, they are known for their excellent handling.
Mazda RX7
In America, when we think of rear-wheel-drive cars with a manual transmission, it is usually sports coupes and muscle cars that come to mind. However, there are many other vehicles with such features; if you’re looking for one to purchase or want to learn more about them, check out rarer jdm RWD cars like any pre-1997 Mazda RX7.
The RX7 is not only one of JDM’s best RWD vehicles but also one of its most iconic performance models. If you’re looking for an affordable rotary engine car or even just a blast from the Japanese car historical past, look no further than any pre-97 RX7 model; they’re fast, fun, and unique in design compared to American roadsters.
Nissan Skyline GT-R (1989-2002)
Another rare Japanese car that’s RWD is probably one of the best-known Japanese sports cars of all time—the Nissan Skyline GT-R. These cars featured a unique engine setup with a rear-mounted, rear-wheel-drive layout. Plus, with their turbocharged engines.
These muscle machines were fast enough to give any rear-wheel-drive race car a run for its money. In fact, in recent years, some NISMO models (that’s Nissan Motorsports) have been modified and even competed in American racing events like SCCA and LeMons.
Honda S2000 (AP1 & AP2)
The S2000 was available in Japan from 1999 to 2009 and as a convertible beginning in 2003. The AP1 (1999-2003) version of the S2000 came only with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four, while every other version of it got Honda’s famed V6.
Both generations were also available with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The AP2 model of Honda’s rear-wheel-drive roadster underwent an extensive redesign for 2004, including changing from a naturally aspirated engine to one supercharged.
A turbocharged variant appeared in 2006, bringing it more powerful than its predecessors. Unfortunately, lack of traction kept performance just shy of cars like Mazda’s MX5 and Nissan’s 350Z.
Mitsubishi 3000GT/GTO
Acura’s Integra Type R was produced from 1993 to 2001, with slight changes occurring. The Integra Type R is a compact front-wheel-drive sports car and is one of Japan’s best-handling vehicles.
The Type R was equipped with a high-revving 170-horsepower VTEC engine, which allowed it to hit 60 miles per hour in just 6.8 seconds. With only 1,500 units made per year between 1993 and 1997.
Acura Integra Type Rs today fetch big bucks on auction sites such as eBay Motors: in 2012, an Integra Type R sold for $56,480 on eBay Motors!
Acura Integra Type R (1993-2001)
Hailed as one of Honda’s best-looking cars, Acura’s Integra Type R was all about speed. Despite not being a true race car, it still had aggressive body styling that added to its handling capabilities.
The 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential to propel the Type R from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, on its way to a 13.0-second quarter mile at 102 mph, according to Motor Trend (April 1995).
At almost 28 feet long, 14 feet wide, and 6 feet tall, it has an extremely low drag coefficient and weighs just 2,866 pounds without a driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all JDM right-hand drives?
Not all Japanese cars are right-hand drives. Some aren’t even built-in Japan but come from South Korea or other places like Thailand and China. For example, the Honda Legend and Accord were never produced in Japan; they were both built in North America.
Which JDM cars are AWD?
Japan has a great variety of weather and driving conditions, so it makes sense that there’s a strong market for all-wheel drive vehicles. But before you start shopping, make sure you know what kind of all-wheel-drive vehicle you want.
There are two main systems: torque vectoring (basically an electronic limited-slip differential) and true AWD systems with extra weight and components in addition to differentials and may even feature three or more driven wheels! Here’s some information on when each system might suit your needs.
Conclusion
JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market. It refers to automobiles designed and manufactured for sale in Japan. These vehicles feature various performance levels, prices, and designs. Some of these cars may be low-end models, and others can be considered exotic or luxurious. No one brand or type qualifies as a JDM car, but some stand out by their rare wheel drive configuration.
