A few models tend to grab all of the headlines when it comes to Japanese performance cars, with Skylines and Supras being particularly popular. But, are there some rather more inspired choices that could add a splash of JDM magic to your life? Here are five alternative options that I think you should consider...

1. Nissan Stagea 260RS

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Sure, this may be little more than a Skyline estate, but that’s exactly what makes it a top choice. You get the same RB powerhouse, but in a vehicle that’s much more practical for daily use. Sure, you’re much more likely to find an automatic transmission, but away from the race track, that’s not necessarily such a bind. Find yourself in traffic and the two-pedal system reigns supreme.

I’m particularly fond of the Series 2, which can easily be tweaked to adopt the menacing front end of the R34 Skyline – the ultimate example of which is probably the Double Unicorn known to Mighty Car Mod fans. 

Best of all, Stageas are yet to be subjected to the rapidly rising values affecting Skylines. Get some undercover Skyline thrills for a fraction of the cost.

 

2. Nissan 300ZX

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The short wheel base 300ZX (Or Fairlady Z as its also known in Japan) is an exceptionally rare sight on UK roads. 104kg lighter and 21.5cm shorter than the more prevalent LWB model this version has the hallmarks of a proper sports car. It was one of those cars that visually appeared to age very quickly but in our opinion its sharp nosed retro looks are making a real come back. The interior is a wonderful place to be, so retro it feels like you're in a time warp! 

 

3. Mitsubishi Evolution V

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The three generations of Mitsubishi Evo from IV to VI share a lot in common, but the Evo V is the rarest of the lot, being produced for just one year between January 1998 and January 1999. It has somewhere in the region of 280bhp, so performance is going to be more than plentiful. If you somehow felt your V was not as punchy as a VI, then you could apply a few aftermarket goodies – a larger intercooler perhaps as a good start point. While collectors get giddy about the VI, especially the Tommy Makinen Edition, it leaves the V looking like a great value option.

 

4. Toyota Starlet Glanza V

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The P90 generation Starlet was a rather dreary small hatchback that failed to generate much excitement amongst British buyers. Perhaps that’s because, once again, we were denied the really exciting versions. In Japan, the Glanza V used turbocharging to create a fearsome 131bhp hot hatch, while the Glanza S had all the looks, but only 85bhp from its naturally aspirated lump. There’s now a large following for Glanzas in the UK, and when you consider those figures, it’s easy to see why. Small cars can be an awful lot of fun.

 

5. Honda Prelude Type S

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Lastly, a model that deserves far more attention is the Honda Prelude Type S. Although the base car was an absolute blast to drive the Type S takes it up a few notches. Improved power output and a number of improvements to the handling and interior sets it apart from the other models plus its pretty rare to spot in Japan let alone the UK!


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